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Note: This post is part of our back-to-school series spotlighting Lutheran schools LCEF has walked alongside in recent years, ministries God continues to grow and bless. Sometimes saving a ministry means rethinking everything. In Grand Island, Nebraska, a struggling Lutheran high school merged into a new preschool–12th grade system, backed by LCEF’s guidance and a fresh governing structure. The result? Renewed enrollment, returning donors, and cradle-to-grave Lutheran education in the heartland. Read more ➡️ https://go.lcef.org/l/940793/2026-07-17/2gwmyl #LutheranSchools #LCEFLovesChurchWorkers #LCMS

Be sure to check out Forward in Christ magazine’s August issue this month! Grab a physical copy today or visit: https://forwardinchrist.net for access to past and present issues. Let us know your favorite story in the comments! #forwardinchrist #forwardinchristmagazine

Be sure to check out Forward in Christ magazine’s August issue this month! Grab a physical copy today or visit: https://forwardinchrist.net for access to past and present issues. Let us know your favorite story in the comments! #forwardinchrist #forwardinchristmagazine

“O day of peace that dimly shines through all our hopes and prayers and dreams, guide us to justice, truth, and love, delivered from our selfish schemes” (ELW 711).

On Saturday, Building and Capital Services Advisor Jim Michel attended the Kansas Disciples regional assembly at Belmont Boulevard Christian Church – Disciples of Christ in Salina, KS and couldn’t help but try the best Rocky Road ice cream in the Midwest. If only our other Advisors could be so lucky! 🍦 #ccdoc

“O day of peace that dimly shines through all our hopes and prayers and dreams, guide us to justice, truth, and love, delivered from our selfish schemes” (ELW 711).

New school year, familiar faces. As Lutheran school classrooms fill up again this month, we’re taking a moment to celebrate Lutheran schools by highlighting a few that LCEF has had the privilege of walking alongside in recent years—schools that have grown so they could keep doing what they do best. Follow along each day through Saturday as we spotlight a different school. #LutheranSchools #LCEFLovesChurchWorkers #LCMS

Six years ago today, a derecho storm barreled through Iowa. See how two small communities rallied around each other—together in faith—in the midst of devastation to rebuild an LCMS church and school.

🌱 Turn Generosity Into a Legacy 🌱 A Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) is a smart, flexible way to give — donate cash or securities, grow your funds tax-free, and grant to the ministries you love, on your timeline. 🙏 ✅ Account Minimum: $5,000 ✅ Grant Minimum: $500 Bonus: it’s a beautiful way to teach the next generation the joy of generosity. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦✝️ Ready to start? Reach out to Bradley Frailey, CPA, CIMA®, at bfrailey@bfcal.org 📩 👉 www.bfcal.org #DonorAdvisedFund #FaithfulStewardship #KingdomImpact #BFCAL

✨ 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! 🌿

How a Small Town Church Financed Its Building A church in the middle of farm fields was not exactly where anyone expected growth, but that is what happened in Delta, Pennsylvania. More people started showing up on Sunday mornings, and the pastor’s team began asking themselves how they would handle it. The search for a builder led to a search for funding, and that search led to CDF Capital. “At first, we were just looking for what we were going to do to pay for this,” Pastor Doug explained. “CDF came alongside us, and really, the funding became almost secondary. The counsel became primary.” For a pastor trying to stay focused on the people in front of him, that mattered. “Building a building is necessary, but it’s not my ministry,” he said. “It’s the place where you get to fulfill your ministry.” Church building loans make it possible for congregations like this one to stop meeting in a season of uncertainty and start building something permanent. And Kingdom-minded investors make those loans possible. CDF Capital connects Christian investors with churches across America, creating spaces where faith is nurtured, communities are strengthened, and God’s work flourishes. #ChurchGrowth #KingdomInvesting #CDFCapital

“And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. Then a voice said to him, ‘What are you doing here, Elijah?’ ” (1 Kings 19:12-13). Elijah felt alone, but God showed him the truth. “You’re not alone.” God says the same to you in his Word. You may feel unseen, but God sees you. You may feel forgotten, but God remembers you. You may feel alone, but God is with you. Jesus proves it. He came to be with sinners, die for sinners, and rise for sinners. He’s the one who promised he would be with you always, until the very end. Listen to God’s gentle whisper in his Word. You are not alone. Your Savior is with you. Prayer: Dear Lord, when we feel afraid or alone, help us listen to your Word and trust your promises. Thank you for staying with us and sending Jesus to keep all your promises. Amen. #welslutherans #welsfamilydevotions #lutheransoffacebook

“The LORD said, ‘Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by’ ” (1 Kings 19:11). We haven’t been in the exact same place as Elijah, but we’ve been at low points where doubts were racing through our minds. Maybe you’ve felt all alone, and you doubted that anyone knew or cared. Maybe you’ve been crying out loud or screaming on the inside. In moments like that, a loving and living God hushes your doubts with a gentle whisper and says, “It’s alright.” Those are never empty words, because God has made all things right through his Son, Jesus Christ. He has rescued us from sin and death so that not even death can separate us from God. When you are gripped with doubt or fear, hear the gentle words of Jesus and know it’s alright. Prayer: Lord, with the gentle whisper of your words, quiet my doubts and fear. Amen. #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #lutheransoffacebook

Wellness flows from faithful stewardship in real life. Students learn discipline and teamwork in Christ‑centered athletics; adults choose simple daily movement that supports both body and spirit. Through small habits—seeing movement as a gift, praying while we exercise, inviting others to join us and showing ourselves grace—we honor God’s handiwork in our bodies.

Wherever faith clings to the promises of God, doubt is always lingering. Doubt asks the serpent’s garden question, “Did God really say?” People doubt God’s care, God’s promises, or God’s providence. The answer to doubt is not found in loud, dramatic demonstrations. The true answer to doubt is found in the still small voice of our Savior God whispering to us in his Word. Through Word and sacrament, Christ reaches out to us with nail-scarred hands, proof of his great love. Jesus gently says, “Why did you doubt?” Our faith is restored. Christians answer doubt with faith. #welslutherans #wels

Today, on the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, we recognize and celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Indigenous communities around the world. As people of faith, we are called to listen with humility, build authentic relationships, and honor the wisdom and leadership of Indigenous peoples. Strong communities are built through mutual respect, shared learning, and a commitment to walking alongside one another. As we prepare to visit our Alaska church partners later this month, we’re especially mindful of the opportunity to listen, learn, and strengthen relationships rooted in faith and community. #IndigenousPeoplesDay #UnitedChurchOfChrist #FaithInAction #CommunityLeadership #ChurchPartnership

Here’s a Sunday Verse caption for Ecclesiastes 4:6: 📖 Sunday Verse “Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind.” — Ecclesiastes 4:6 (NIV) A gentle reminder this Sunday: peace and contentment matter more than restless striving. Rest in His provision today. 🙏✨ #SundayVerse #Ecclesiastes #BFCAL #Faith #Scripture #Contentment

At the Baptist Foundation of California, we’re honored to partner with you in stewarding resources for Kingdom work. Together, we’re not just managing assets—we’re investing in lives, communities, and eternal impact. 💙🙏 Let’s continue building a legacy of faith and generosity that reflects God’s purpose and love. #KingdomPurpose #FaithfulStewards #BaptistFoundationCA

Unpack the subject behind familiar language heard in church board and committee meetings in the latest episode of the Ministry Moments Podcast. Listen ➡️ https://go.lcef.org/l/940793/2026-06-30/2gswly

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.” —Proverbs 18:10 🏫 Concordia Seminary 🌎 St. Louis, MO

What a memorable first game for Lydia! ⚾️ She did a great job as the Jr. Announcer for WELS Night at the Brewers. #welslutherans #welsnight #wels

Randy Frey, WELS member, had the honor of throwing out the first pitch at tonight’s game! ⚾️ #welslutherans #welsnight #wels

The 40 members of Lutheran Chorale of Milwaukee did a beautiful job singing the National Anthem at WELS Night at the Brewers. #welslutherans #welsnight #wels

We did it! What an awesome experience to sing at the Milwaukee Brewers game tonight!

The 40 members of Lutheran Chorale of Milwaukee did a beautiful job singing the National Anthem at WELS Night at the Brewers. #welslutherans #welsnight #wels

MB Foundation is seeking an Administrative Assistant to support our Chief Development Officer and Loan Program. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys keeping things organized and running smoothly. You’ll assist with scheduling, documentation, correspondence, and a variety of other administrative responsibilities that help advance our mission. Join our team and be part of a ministry dedicated to faithful stewardship, generosity, and making a lasting difference in God’s Kingdom. If you’re looking for meaningful work where your gifts can make an eternal impact, we’d love for you to apply. https://bit.ly/4eMdfj2

We are excited to be at American Family Field cheering on the Milwaukee Brewers for WELS Night! Thank you to all 1,400 of you who made it out tonight for a beautiful day at the park. If you are here, tag us in your pictures. We would love to see them! #welslutherans #welsnight #wels

In “Stolen Stories,” a five-part educational video series by ELCA Sumud, listen to the voices of Palestinian Christians as they recount their historical narrative from pre-1948 to present day. This series highlights the important perspectives of our Palestinian siblings in Christ and lifts up the lived experiences of Palestinians—especially the Indigenous Christians of Palestine and Israel—in their own words. In “Stolen Stories,” Palestinian Christian pastors, bishops and scholars offer an important contextual, historical and theological framework that continues to shape life in Palestine and Israel today. Watch here:

In “Stolen Stories,” a five-part educational video series by ELCA Sumud, listen to the voices of Palestinian Christians as they recount their historical narrative from pre-1948 to present day. This series highlights the important perspectives of our Palestinian siblings in Christ and lifts up the lived experiences of Palestinians—especially the Indigenous Christians of Palestine and Israel—in their own words. In “Stolen Stories,” Palestinian Christian pastors, bishops and scholars offer an important contextual, historical and theological framework that continues to shape life in Palestine and Israel today. Watch here:

📸 #FlashbackFriday to last October, when the BFCAL staff visited the Ronald Reagan Library! We spent the day soaking in history, inspiration, and reflection exploring the legacy of leadership and faith ! 📚✨ #FBF #ThrowbackFriday #BFCAL #ReaganLibrary #Leadership #Faith

“The fellowship between WELS and the ELFK is another reminder that God’s church stretches far beyond national borders.” -Rev. Mark Schroeder, WELS President The August WELS Connection will highlight the 150-year partnership between WELS and the Evangelical Lutheran Free Church (ELFK) of Germany. #welslutherans #welsconnection #wels

Imagine starting your week steeped in God’s Word instead of your to-do list. The “Lectionary KickStart” podcast from Concordia Seminary offers a conversational, easy-to-listen-to walkthrough of the upcoming weekend’s lectionary texts. Hosted by Jessica Bordeleau with homiletics professors Rev. Dr. David Schmitt and Rev. Dr. Peter Nafzger, it’s designed for pastors planning sermons but is just as helpful for laypeople preparing for Sunday worship.

Next time you’re at the dinner table with family, ask this: What’s the most generous thing you’d do if the opportunity came tomorrow? You already know your parents, grandparents, kids, and grandkids won’t all answer the same way. Barna Group’s research on five generations, Elders, Boomers, Gen Xers, Millennials, and Gen Zers, found real differences in how each expresses generosity. Older generations tend toward giving money. Younger generations tend toward giving time. There’s common ground, too. At least half of every generation surveyed gives to charitable organizations, and at least one in five volunteers their time. Generosity doesn’t look the same at every age, and it doesn’t need to. Scripture is clear that what matters most is a cheerful, willing heart, not the specific form the giving takes (2 Corinthians 9:7). Read the full article, Generosity Across Generations: https://www.cdfcapital.org/generosity-across-generations/

Church Building & Loan Fund’s signature training event “Partners in Building” is returning for 2026. The event will be held online on October 14th & 15th. CB&LF has hosted “Partners in Building” since 2007, and it is the only church-led, faith-oriented event that provides comprehensive education about real estate redevelopment from concept to completion. Partners in Building provides church leaders with training on how to grow their missions and use their churches’ resources to the fullest extent — helping them realize they have numerous opportunities to broaden their impact and transform communities through spiritual entrepreneurship and community development initiatives. Stay tuned for registration details and more information. #UnitedChurchOfChrist #ChurchLeadership #FaithInAction #CommunityImpact

“They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. The number of those who ate was about five thousand men, besides women and children” (Matthew 14:20-21). Jesus sees what you need, too. Sometimes you need food, help, courage, patience, or rest. But most of all, you need him. So, Jesus gave himself for you. He gives forgiveness that does not run out. He gives love that does not end. He gives life that lasts forever. Five loaves and two fish looked hopelessly small—until placed in Jesus’ hands. When what you have looks too small, bring it to Jesus. In his hands, there is always more than enough. Prayer: Dear Jesus, thank you for seeing what we need and caring for us with compassion. Help us bring our worries and needs to you, trusting that your love is always more than enough. Amen. #welslutherans #welsfamilydevotions #lutheransoffacebook

Wayne C. Barrett Steward Leader Award

“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us” (Ephesians 1:7-8). Our sins had made us prisoners, guilty before God and unable to purchase our own release. No amount of good behavior could cover what we owed. So, God paid the price himself. The cost was not silver or gold, but the holy, precious blood of his own Son. On the cross, Jesus gave everything to set you free, and now every sin you have ever committed stands forgiven. God did not forgive you reluctantly, the way we sometimes pardon others while quietly keeping score. He forgave you gladly, fully, lavishly, because that is who he is. Prayer: Gracious Father, you lavished the riches of your grace on me through the blood of your Son. Let me live each day in the joy and freedom of your full forgiveness. Amen. #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #lutheransoffacebook

The latest issue of New Church Ministry’s newsletter also has great information about our August 20 webinar with Insurance Board, which will feature a roundtable discussion on property stewardship, risk management, and maintaining insurable facilities. Read it today to learn how you can join us! #ccdocLast month, 13 coaches gathered in Charleston, WV to launch the inaugural cohort of the Red Chalice Coaching Network, a new initiative designed to strengthen and professionalize coaching across the new church movement. Learn more about this new chapter in the July issue of the New Church Know-It-All. #ccdoc

🎤 #TBT to a powerful moment from NAMB President Kevin Ezell shares a message from the podium while NAMB Trustee Officers stand in support: Dr. Jonathan Jarboe, Chair Jeff Young, First Vice Chair Josh Reavis, Second Vice Chair Grateful for their leadership and commitment to advancing the mission — then and now! #TBT #ThrowbackThursday #NAMB #SBC2025 #GospelMission #KingdomLeadership

Does your ministry have excess property you’re not sure what to do with? It might be an opportunity hiding in plain sight. Tom Campbell from LCEF’s Real Estate Solutions team outlines four lenses—helping people, building community, enhancing ministry and creating alternative revenue—to evaluate surplus land or buildings in a mission-compliant way.

When people see how their generosity is changing lives, they’re inspired to give with greater purpose. Discover practical ways to transform your church’s offering into a meaningful moment of discipleship. In this Foundation training video, Erica Allen and Weston Williams of Horizons Stewardship share simple strategies for connecting giving with real ministry impact and helping your congregation see generosity as participation in God’s work. Watch now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uw2A_jVfk7A #stewardship #giving #umchurches #generosity #meaningfulgood

A devastating tornado hit Menasha, Wis., and the surrounding area on Monday, July 27. Bethel, Menasha, a bilingual WELS church with about 500 members, sustained some structural damage and WELS Christian Aid and Relief is providing support. To learn more, visit: https://wels.net/tornado-damages-wels-church-and-school/

Case Study: Housing Development Research Initiative The UCC Church Building & Loan Fund had an exciting week last week! We recently partnered with the Affordable Housing Institute and Enterprise Community Partners on a research initiative. This initiative examines the housing landscape in both Cleveland, Ohio, and Detroit, Michigan, with a focus on the role that faith-based institutions play in housing developments. Last week, pastors from across Cuyahoga County came to the CB&LF offices to discuss their current and future development projects. They shared valuable insights that will help guide future community planning and conversations. In addition, CB&LF hosted public sector Institutions from across the county. These organizations included the City of Cleveland, Cuyahoga County Land Bank, Cuyahoga Municipal Housing Authority, and many more. They shared valuable opportunities as well as ways that we can partner across the region. CB&LF is committed to partnerships and collaborations that support faith-based organizations in their goal to transform communities. This is just one of the many projects we are working on to fulfill this goal. #UnitedChurchOfChrist #ChurchLeadership #FaithInAction #CommunityImpact

☀️ No matter how high the temperatures rise, our mission stays the same: faithfully stewarding what’s entrusted to us, strengthening churches, and building legacies that last for generations. 🙏💙 #KingdomImpact #FaithInAction #WeLoveChurches #LegacyOfFaith

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3). Through faith in Jesus, you have the forgiveness of all your sins. You have peace with God. You are adopted as his dear child. The Holy Spirit lives in you and there is an inheritance in heaven with your name on it. Nothing on earth—not inflation, not illness, not even death itself—can drain that account. Christ earned every bit of it for you, and God has signed it all over to you in your baptism. So enjoy your daily bread with thanksgiving; it is a gift from your Father’s hand, new every morning. But your greatest treasures are not on the table or in the bank. They are in Christ—forgiveness, peace, and life that never ends. The child of God is rich beyond counting, today and eternally. Prayer: Praise to you, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, for blessing me with every spiritual blessing in your Son. Keep my heart treasuring what can never be taken away. Amen. #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #lutheransoffacebook

Partnering Together in What God Is Building sbtexasfoundation.com/new-deposits • Partner with the Southern Baptists of Texas Foundation in what God is building through Church Expansion Certificates. Investing in certificates is a meaningful way to strengthen Texas churches and expand gospel impact in communities across the state. • Available to a qualified class of Texas churches, ministries, and individuals, these certificates provide an opportunity to invest in God’s mission—multiplying lasting Kingdom impact through faithful stewardship.

“The same God who called and equipped Moses has called and will equip you for service too.” During chapel at the WELS Center for Mission and Ministry, Rev. David Russow and Rev. Don Patterson were installed as ministry recruitment counselors. Ministry recruitment counselors work alongside pastors, teachers, staff ministers, and lay leaders to help them actively recognize gifts in others, share information about ministerial education, and keep gospel ministry top of mind for WELS youth. Board for Ministerial Education launched the program in 2025. Rev. Russow will serve the Minnesota, Nebraska, and Dakota-Montana Districts, while Rev. Patterson will serve the South Central, South Atlantic, and North Atlantic Districts. They join Rev. Mark Schroeder (Northern and Western Wisconsin Districts), Mary Heckendorf (Arizona-California and Pacific Northwest Districts), and Sam McKenna (Southeastern Wisconsin and Michigan Districts) who were installed in October 2025. May God continue to bless your work!

The Proclamation Project has released its Disciples Identity curriculum. A companion to the book, We Call Ourselves Disciples, it is designed for congregations to grow deeper in their connections across the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). This multimedia resource is adaptable for a variety of contexts.