I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve heard the saying, “The one thing you can always count on in life is change.” Typically, this sentence causes more stress than relief, even though it’s meant to settle nerves by defining reality! Our bodies and minds have been acclimatized to feeling nervous or ill at ease when we hear or see the word change.
There is truth to this phrase; change is happening and occurring constantly around us, to us and in us. So how do we adapt to change? How do we adjust to change? Ultimately, how can we embrace change? And how can we engage with change in a positive, healthy way?
Our Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) church workers and ministries (churches, schools, RSOs) are not immune to the effects of change. Change exists as much in these environments as they do in our home, work and personal life! So, how do you embrace change strategically and with purpose?
Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF) is not exempt from change. Our leadership has chosen to embrace change strategically. To that end, we launched a new logo, theme and focus in early 2025. In a nutshell, the mission of Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF) is to start, sustain and strengthen LCMS ministries through financial and strategic partnerships.
We remember that all of life is a gift, owned by God and given to us to manage (steward) for Him. God’s Word reminds us that Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever. He never changes. So, in a world, country, community, church and homes that are constantly changing, we stand firm on Christ — the solid ground.
Yet, in tangible life that is in constant change, how can we be kingdom people who do God’s things (work) with God’s things in the present and into the future? One way to answer this stewardship question is by strategically embracing change with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Strategic and trusted partnerships with districts and LCMS congregations is an intentional way LCEF is helping LCMS ministries move forward according to God’s will with the end goal of strengthening and sustaining ministries and starting new ones.
What CHANGES are you facing in your ministry? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you or your congregation feel defragmented or misaligned? Have more questions than answers? Looking for a trusted partner or guide to help navigate forward through current and future changes?
This is EXACTLY why LCEF exists — to start, sustain and strengthen LCMS ministries through financial and strategic partnerships.
Take this quick assessment to determine what the next best step is for you and how LCEF can help. Check out the broad range of ministry solutions LCEF offers to help.