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We are excited to be at UWM Panther Arena cheering on the Milwaukee Admirals for WELS Night at the Admirals! 🥅🏒 If you are here, tag us in your posts! #welslutherans #welsnight #wels

Art has the power to inspire communities and spark action toward collective liberation and well-being. In Part 2 of Living Lutheran’s interview with artist Joe Davis, he reflects on how creative expression can motivate care for one another and nurture healing in shared spaces. Watch the full interview through the link in the comments below. Photo: Samantha Adindu

“Grace-based giving” sounds great on paper, but what does it look like in a real congregation? On the new Ministry Moments Podcast episode, the LCEF Ministry Solutions team walks through how their ministry expansion campaigns invite members into a prayerful conversation with Jesus about generosity, instead of telling them what they “need” to give. Hear how that approach leads people to finish a campaign saying, “Look what God did in our family,” even as major ministry projects are fully funded. Listen at lcef.org/forward or wherever you get podcasts​.

As the weather warms and the days grow brighter ☀️🌿, our commitment remains steady. In every season, we continue faithfully stewarding what God has entrusted to us — strengthening churches, supporting ministries, and helping build Christ-centered legacies that flourish for generations to come. ✨ #KingdomImpact #FaithfulStewardship #WeLoveChurches #LegacyOfFaith

Eternal Protector of the helpless, hear the cry of the distressed and grant speedy deliverance in a new day of peace and concord.

“Grace-based giving” sounds great on paper, but what does it look like in a real congregation? On the new Ministry Moments Podcast episode, the LCEF Ministry Solutions team walks through how their ministry expansion campaigns invite members into a prayerful conversation with Jesus about generosity, instead of telling them what they “need” to give. Hear how that approach leads people to finish a campaign saying, “Look what God did in our family,” even as major ministry projects are fully funded. Listen at lcef.org/forward or wherever you get podcasts​.

“We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done.” — Psalm 78:4 ⛪ Trinity Lutheran Church and School – Grand Island, NE 🌎 Grand Island, Nebraska

An afternoon jumping between chunks of concrete and singing “On Christ the solid rock I stand” became more than just a childhood memory for Tim Kurth—it set the pattern for how he thinks about ministry leadership and governing boards. In his latest article, Tim connects that firm foundation in Christ to the need for strong, Principles Based Governance in churches, schools, camps and other ministries. See how a clear governance model can keep your board from becoming a liability and instead anchor your ministry on solid ground. Read more ➡️ https://interesttime.org/a-firm-foundation/

Though they range from educational institutions to individual places of worship, the ministries that New Church Ministry has highlighted for this year’s Black History Month content all have one thing in common: they are all working to advocate for and empower African Americans across the United States and Canada. #ccdocThis year we have been so encouraged by the enthusiastic response of Disciples across the United States and Canada to the first installment of our annual Black History Month series. So our ministry proudly presents the second installment: “Eight Ministries Disciples Should Know for Black History Month.” #BHM

Missionary Luis Acosta, and his wife, Carolina, have moved to Quito, Ecuador! Shortly after arriving, they joined members of the One Latin America mission team to travel to Quilotoa for Transfiguration Sunday worship. God’s blessings on the Acosta family, and the rest of the One Latin America mission team, as they continue to share the gospel message with those in Ecuador and beyond. Learn more about the work of the Latin America team, specifically Missionary Luis Acosta at wels.net/latinamerica.

#FlashbackFriday 🌌🏞️ Last July, Chief Legal Officer Courtney Coates attended the Send Network Church Planter Family Retreat in beautiful Ojai. BFCAL was honored to sponsor the event — complete with cozy blankets for movie night under the stars. 🎬🧺 Grateful to support church planters and families as they rest, connect, and recharge for the mission ahead. #BFCAL #KingdomImpact #ChurchPlanting #FlashbackFriday

Did you know there is a new project of the ELCA, the Church Property Resource Hub? Created in response to requests from synod and congregational leaders, the Church Property Resource Hub provides support in navigating the opportunities and challenges that buildings and land present for congregational vitality and the wider mission of the church. You are invited to learn more at one of three upcoming virtual town halls. These sessions will introduce the project to congregations and to anyone involved in the stewardship and management of church property. Join us to explore resources available to congregation leaders as they seek to steward property in faithful and practical ways. Register for any of the three available sessions through the links in the comments below.

Many Lutheran schools continue to grow as more families seek a Christian education for their children. What a blessing! But that means there is a growing need for more teachers. Additionally, there are still far too many congregations without a pastor or staff minister to share the life-changing gospel message in their communities. Let’s keep working together! We are all YouKnighted in this mission to train and equip more future pastors, teachers, and staff ministers for the harvest field. Read more: https://hubs.li/Q043T0Tc0 #welslutherans #wels

“Jesus answered, ‘It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God’ ‘ ” (Matthew 4:4). Have you ever wondered how Jesus beat Satan when Satan tried to trick him? You might think, “Well, Jesus is God—of course he won!” And that’s true—Jesus is fully God. He could have stopped Satan right away. Jesus chose to be tempted on purpose—not because he might fail, but to show us how to win. He wanted to give us the right tools to fight temptation. Jesus understands what it’s like to be tempted, because he was tempted too. And because he won, we can fight temptation the same way—by trusting God and using his Word. God’s tools for success aren’t muscles or willpower. They are every word and promise that comes from our heavenly Father’s mouth. When we listen to God’s Word, it gives us strength—every time. Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, thank you for giving me your Word, which helps me fight temptation. When I feel weak or confused, help me trust you instead of myself. Use your Word to guide me and keep me strong. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsfamilydevotions #familydevotions #devotional #biblestudy #familybiblestudy #lutheransoffacebook

” ‘I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel’ ” (Genesis 3:15). Right in the middle of the wreckage, God speaks a promise. Adam and Eve have disobeyed. Trust is broken. Shame has entered the world. Everything good now feels fragile. And before the humans say a word—before they apologize, explain, or promise to do better—God talks to the serpent, “He will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” The serpent struck Jesus’ heel, but Jesus crushed the serpent’s head. Death did its worst and still lost. That victory changes everything. It means your sin, real as it is, is not stronger than God’s grace. Your past, heavy as it may feel, does not define your future. Fear and guilt do not get the last word. Jesus does. Paradise was lost in a garden, but it was promised on a cross and procured at an empty tomb. God keeps his promises—even when everything seems broken. God’s answer is always bigger than our questions. Prayer: Lord God, thank you for keeping your promise to defeat sin, death, and the devil. When I feel overwhelmed by guilt or fear, remind me of Christ’s victory. Give me faith to trust in what Jesus has done for me and peace to live in the hope he has won. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #dailydevotions #lutheransoffacebook #devotional #biblestudy #personalbiblestudy

When you invest in Church Expansion Certificates, you’re not just growing your finances—you’re helping churches and ministries thrive, reach more people, and spread the gospel. Learn more at sbtexasfoundation.com/new-deposits • Note: These promotional rates are only available for new money investments. Certificate investments are available to a qualified class of Texas churches, ministries, and individuals.

Our clients care deeply about mission and ministry and so do we. The feedback from our recent Investor Survey affirmed our commitment to strong service and mission-driven stewardship. It’s our privilege to partner with investors to help ministries expand to meet growing needs—through renovating facilities, purchasing new buildings, and constructing community outreach centers. See photos and read more about our recent loan projects: https://bit.ly/416MIHp.

Black History Month is a time for reflection, where we remember events that were the catalysts for change and honor influential leaders. But what takes up less of the spotlight are partnerships. Such is the case for our relationship with Unity Christian Church Disciples of Christ, a church we have supported for four decades.

#ThrowbackThursday 🍽️🙏 Last year, Chief Legal Officer Courtney Coates shared lunch with Senior Pastor Joseph Taplin of Worship Life Church in Moreno Valley. Grateful for ministry partnerships and the Kingdom work impacting the community. 💙 #BFCAL #KingdomImpact #FaithfulStewards

💼 Simplify your church’s finances. Strengthen your ministry. 🙌 Through our partnership with WatersEdge, BFCAL offers trusted accounting support — from bookkeeping to payroll — so your team can stay focused on ministry. 💒✨ 👉 Learn more: www.bfcal.org/accounting #WeLoveChurches ❤️ #ResourcingMinistry

Did you know that LCEF offers guidance to help turn your ministry’s vision into reality? Our District Vice Presidents (DVPs) are skilled problem-solvers dedicated to the LCMS community. Whether you’re planning an expansion, navigating financial challenges or seeking to grow your impact, your DVP is equipped to provide tailored solutions and strategic advice. Let us help you achieve your goals and strengthen your service to God’s people. Find your DVP and explore what’s possible at lcef.org/districts. #TogetherInFaith

🤝 Ready to support ministry while securing your financial future? A Charitable Gift Annuity gives you dependable income for life, no matter what the market does…plus the satisfaction of knowing your generosity continues to support the ministries you love. Great news for 2026: You can now deduct cash charitable gifts up to $2,000 (married filing jointly) even if you don’t itemize! Wondering how this could work for you? 👉 AGFinancial.org/CGA

“Then the LORD God said to the woman, ‘What is this you have done?’ The woman said, ‘The serpent deceived me, and I ate’ ” (Genesis 3:13). This question forces us to slow down and face reality. Sin isn’t just a mistake. It has consequences. It breaks trust. It damages relationships. It ripples outward in ways we don’t expect. God’s question isn’t meant to crush. It’s meant to confront. Because healing can’t happen without honesty. The Bible doesn’t minimize sin. But it also doesn’t leave us stuck in it. God names the problem so he can address it. And before humans ever ask for forgiveness, God promises a solution. Prayer: Lord, I admit that my sin has caused real damage. I confess that I often try to excuse myself instead of turning to you. Thank you for loving me enough to confront me—and for forgiving me through Jesus. Help me live in the freedom of your grace. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #dailydevotions #lutheransoffacebook #devotional #biblestudy #personalbiblestudy

The recording of last week’s webinar is now available to watch back on Youtube! Access through the link below.

Congratulations to Isaiah 58 Ministries on its ground breaking! This St. Louis, MO-based ministry is part of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Mid-America and received a loan to buy its own facility. Congregational Advisor Jim Michel is working on financing for phase 2, which will see the space built out. #ccdoc

✨ Pastors, don’t miss the chance to host a free BFCal estate planning seminar! 🗓️ These seminars are an incredible way for families to discover how stewardship can bless their loved ones, their churches, and the Kingdom causes God has placed on their hearts. 💖🙏 📧 Secure your date today by emailing us at info@bfcal.org. Let’s make an impactful giving and legacy building! 🌿

“All the snake bites that we experienced, all they do is they teach us to look to Christ who then speaks to us through his Word, through his supper and says—You are going to be okay, you will live, and you will enter my promised land.” Watch today’s chapel now on our YouTube ⬇️

Wednesday Verse of the Week 📖✨ “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit… will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have told you.” — John 14:26 What a comfort to know we are never alone. The Spirit guides, teaches, and faithfully reminds us of Christ’s truth in every season. 🕊️ #VerseOfTheWeek #John1426 #FaithfulStewardship #BFCAL

#WednesdayintheWord

Need Help Planning Today for Tomorrow’s Ministry? The Foundation is here to help your church remain strong, sustainable and mission-focused. Share your perspective on financial priorities for your church via this short survey. Your voice can help shape the way forward for your church and others in the Virginia United Methodist Conference (VAUMC). https://form.typeform.com/to/KihSnA7D #survey #umchurches #churchfinance #vaumf #DEVCO

We know and believe we are saved by God’s grace grasped in faith as the gift of God (Ephesians 2: 8-10). Saved from sin also means saved for service, encouragement and action—doing works called good because they’re done by people made good by God’s grace. One way to lift up and encourage one another is by supporting the church workers who serve our LCMS churches, schools and organizations every day. Through this special $500,000 match, your gift to the Church Worker Loan Pool is doubled for their benefit. Join LCMS members across the country in matching the moment: lcef.org/moment — LCEF is a nonprofit religious organization; therefore, LCEF Investments are not FDIC insured, are not a federally insured savings or deposit account or insured by any state or federal agency. This is not an offer to sell investments, nor a solicitation to buy. LCEF will offer and sell its securities only in states where authorized. The offer is made solely by LCEF’s Offering Circular. Investors should carefully read the Offering Circular, which more fully describes associated risks.

Meet Ben Schoch, a Martin Luther College student from Chesaning, Mich., who has been blessed by the Congregational Partner Grant Program. #welslutherans #welsconnection #wels

“For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!” (Romans 5:17). Is it fair to get in trouble for something someone else did? Most kids would say, “No way!” Everyone has sinned—by thinking, saying, or doing things God tells us not to do . . . Because of Adam’s sin, sin and death entered the world. That means everyone is guilty before God. That part might not feel good—but it is fair. But here’s the surprising part. What’s NOT fair is what God does next. Instead of giving us the punishment we deserve, God gives us a gift. He sends Jesus. Jesus never sinned—not even once. But on the cross, Jesus took all our sins and the punishment for them. God treated Jesus as guilty so he could treat us as forgiven. That’s not fair. That’s grace. Jesus gives us something amazing: his righteousness. That means God looks at you and sees Jesus’ goodness instead of your sin. You didn’t earn it. You don’t deserve it. It’s a free gift. Praise God for his unfair mercy! Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for giving me the gift of righteousness that I did not earn, instead of punishment that I did earn. Thank you for Jesus, who took my sins and gave me new life. Help me share your love and mercy with others, just like you shared it with me. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsfamilydevotions #familydevotions #devotional #biblestudy #familybiblestudy #lutheransoffacebook

” ‘Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?’ ” (Genesis 3:11). Before sin, Adam and Eve had nothing to hide. After sin, they were suddenly aware of their flaws. Shame entered the picture, and with it came a new voice telling them, you are not enough. God’s question exposes something important: shame doesn’t come from God. God didn’t tell them they were worthless, broken, or beyond hope. Sin did that. The lies did that. When God looks at those who trust in Jesus, he doesn’t see shame. He sees his beloved children. So when the voices rise—when shame tries to tell you who you are—listen instead to the God who asks, “Who told you that?” Then hear what he tells you instead: You are forgiven. You are loved. You are mine. Prayer: Father, I confess that I listen to voices of shame instead of your truth. Forgive me for believing lies about myself and about you. Thank you for Jesus, who removes my guilt and gives me a new identity. Help me believe what you say about me. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #dailydevotions #lutheransoffacebook #devotional #biblestudy #personalbiblestudy

Is your church preparing to build, renovate, or expand? Let the Foundation come alongside you with church loan solutions designed for ministries like yours. We understand the unique needs of churches—and we’re here to make the process clear, simple, and mission-focused. Here’s what you can expect: ✅ Quick Responses ✅ Simple Application Process ✅ Competitive Rates & Terms ✅ Net Interest That Supports Kingdom Causes Call 844-351-8804 or visit sbtexasfoundation.com/churchlending.

After graduating from Shoreland Lutheran High School, Somers, Wis., Mark Kleisner went to culinary school and worked for about 12 years as a corporate chef in the Chicago area. While he found ways to serve God and others in that role, he had a desire to do more. See how that desire led him to serve a sheriff’s department in Duluth, Minn., as a chaplain for law enforcement personnel. Read his story at forwardinchrist.net/mark-kleisner.

🌟 Investing in conversations that shape the future of ministry! 🌍 Through our endowments supporting Southern Baptist partners like CSBC, NAMB, IMB, Gateway Seminary, and CBU, we’re equipping leaders for impactful discipleship and evangelism. 💒✨ You can help grow these endowments by visiting www.bfcal.org/donate. Together, let’s raise up the next generation of Kingdom workers! 🙌📖 #ResourcingTheGreatCommission #KingdomWork #EquipLeaders

We celebrate Elana Meyers Taylor, a member of Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd in Douglasville, Ga., as she captured gold in the women’s monobob at her fifth Olympic Games as part of the USA Bobsled & Skeleton team. At 41, she also made history, becoming the oldest Winter Olympic gold medalist in an individual event, surpassing the record previously held by snowboarder Benjamin Karl. We lift up her achievement and the example she sets through her faith and determination. Congratulations, Elana!One of the greatest to ever do it. 🥇 At her fifth #WinterOlympics, Elana Meyers Taylor has captured her first-ever gold.

The Quiet Exodus: Dawn Schulz & Rev. Paul Wendland Across Christianity, young women are leaving their churches at historic rates—even more than men. Within our own WELS congregations, this quiet exodus is more than a demographic shift; it’s one of the most urgent issues we face. Many of these women still love their Lord, their doctrine, and their church body. But for a variety of reasons, they struggle to see how they fit into the life of the local church. They don’t want to leave—they just don’t know where they belong. As more women disengage, the loss is felt personally, spiritually, and generationally, weakening the present, reshaping the future, and diminishing both the church’s capacity to carry out the Great Commission and the ability of women and men to live out all their God-given callings. #welslutherans #lutheranleadership2026 #wels

We encourage you all to attend this IMPACT webinar from New Church Ministry—it will be an important discussion. Guest panelists Rev. Dr. Jia Starr Brown and Rev. Tanya Lopez are pastors and activists with years of experience advocating for underrepresented communities. Join them tomorrow afternoon by registering at https://ow.ly/4Jmn50YkxlY #ccdocAs the news shares images and videos from Minneapolis, Bible verses have been shared by Christians across the theological and political spectrum. Some have been used to uphold federal orders and others to encourage welcome. Join us as we discuss what our responses can be as Disciples of Christ. #ccdoc

In episode 32 of the Grace Place Wellness Podcast, Rev. Dr. Bruce Hartung shares how the Spirit has led him through unexpected calls, deep suffering and lifelong learning to shape a ministry centered on church worker wellness. Hear how shifting from a “fix what’s broken” mindset to a preventive, whole-life approach can bless pastors, families and congregations. Listen wherever you get podcasts and consider how your church can better support those who serve. Listen ➡️ lcef.org/listen

If you’re at the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention – SBTC Empower Conference today, we would love to meet you. Come see us and other great organizations at the booth exhibit!

“Why is mom suffering?” “She’s not. You are.” This story puts words to what so many families of those with dementia feel but rarely say out loud. ​ See how Wartburg’s Berkemeier Living Center gives people with Alzheimer’s a safe, home-like place to live their best possible life, and how LCEF helped make this once-in-a-decade memory care project a reality.

In episode 32 of the Grace Place Wellness Podcast, Rev. Dr. Bruce Hartung shares how the Spirit has led him through unexpected calls, deep suffering and lifelong learning to shape a ministry centered on church worker wellness. Hear how shifting from a “fix what’s broken” mindset to a preventive, whole-life approach can bless pastors, families and congregations. Listen wherever you get podcasts and consider how your church can better support those who serve. Listen: lcef.org/listen

Coverdell Education IRA can be used to make annual non-deductible contributions on behalf of a child under the age of 18. The earnings will remain tax-deferred while in the ESA. When the child uses the ESA to pay for qualified education expenses, the contributions and earnings are distributed tax free. Visit https://texascef.org/investments/iras/ to learn more about starting your savings journey today!

Did you spot BFCAL at the CBU basketball game? 📖💙 Sharing our mission with the community—on the court and beyond—is always a win. 🙌 #GoLancers

“Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the LORD God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the LORD God among the trees of the garden. But the LORD God called to the man, ‘Where are you?’ ” (Genesis 3:8-9). God knew exactly where Adam and Eve were. He knew they were hiding. He knew why they were afraid. So why ask the question? Because this wasn’t a question of location. It was a question of relationship. Sin separates us from God, not because God stops loving us, but because fear replaces trust. That separation is something we can’t fix on our own. We can’t hide well enough, behave well enough, or promise to do better enough to restore what’s broken. That’s why God steps into our hiding place himself. In Jesus, God enters a world full of shame, fear, and brokenness. Jesus takes our guilt onto himself at the cross. If you’ve ever felt distant from God—because of regret, doubt, or failure—this question is for you: “Where are you?” Not to condemn you. But to bring you home. Prayer: God, I admit that I often hide from you when I’m afraid or ashamed. Thank you for seeking me instead of abandoning me. Thank you for Jesus, who removes my guilt and invites me back into your presence. Help me trust your grace and stop hiding. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #dailydevotions #lutheransoffacebook #devotional #biblestudy #personalbiblestudy