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What if the way we live and work pointed others straight to Jesus—even our children? This month’s devotional begins with a powerful story about President Jimmy Carter and a simple yet profound response from a child: “Jesus built my house.” It’s a beautiful reminder that our everyday actions can reflect something much bigger. As parents, we have the opportunity to shape not just what our children do—but why they do it. Read this month’s eDevotional for encouraging insights. https://bit.ly/4djwZLv

“Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.’” -John 8:12 ⛪ Prince of Peace Lutheran Church 🌎 Cincinnati, Ohio

We’re not just sharing ideas—we’re building lasting Kingdom impact 🙌 Faithfully stewarding resources, strengthening churches, and investing in what matters most 💙 #KingdomImpact #FaithInAction #WeLoveChurches #LegacyOfFaith

Church Worker Appreciation Week starts Monday! As you get ready, take a moment to think about the pastors, teachers, deaconesses, DCEs, music ministers and others God has used to bless you and your family. Starting Monday, we’re inviting you to join LCEF in thanking God for those church workers by standing with them in a practical way. Here’s how you can be part of Church Worker Appreciation Week: 1️⃣ Follow LCEF here and on Instagram (@lcef_). 2️⃣ Tag a church worker in the comments each day and share a brief story about how God used them in your life. 3️⃣ Support church workers’ daily needs by participating in the $500,000 matching gift to LCEF’s Church Worker Loan Pool at lcef.org/moment Every gift, up to $500,000, through June 30 is doubled to help church workers focus on their calling. Your words, prayers and gifts are one way to say “thank you” and to encourage those who serve so faithfully. Whom will you tag and thank today?

The new ELCA.org is designed to accompany you on your faith journey whether you’re a lifelong Lutheran, a newcomer to the ELCA or simply a person curious about faith. Bring your questions to our new, enhanced search engine, which draws on the full range of the ELCA’s web presence — all of ELCA.org, LivingLutheran.org and the ELCA Resource Center. Find out how the new website is meeting people where they are. “To see that answer, based on our faith, our teachings — that my church and my God love me — I can only imagine 15-year-old Dan seeing that. … Most people coming to the website are not theologians. They’re people who just want to have a greater connection with God and their church.” Read more through the link in the comments below.

It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to Centennial Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) St. Louis’s beloved place of worship. Last May it was damaged by a devastating tornado, resulting in a member’s death. As we support the congregation in its recovery, we know that its faith is strong and will keep the church alive. #ccdocDoves mysteriously appeared flying over our beloved Centennial Christian Church just as we concluded the Litany of Remembrance before demolition began. Thank you Rev. Chris Franklin for working with your photo tools to create a memorable image of that special moment. “The dove symbolizes the Holy Spirit, embodying peace, purity, and the tangible presence of God. While no image can fully convey the Spirit’s infinite essence, the dove endures as a vivid, biblically grounded representation of God’s work and influence in the world.”

Join the WELS Historical Institute for their West Granville Cemetery Tour on June 6 at 10 a.m. Central! This year’s tour highlights some of the pioneer families who shaped Granville Township, including the Everts Family, who gave Granville its name, and the Pfeil family, whose lives reflect the challenges and opportunities of the early settlers in the Wisconsin wilderness. ➡️ Learn more: https://welshistoricalinstitute.org/…/west-granville-cemet…/

When leaders are “all in,” campaigns become more than building projects. In this episode of the Ministry Moments Podcast, the team shares why pastoral, staff and lay engagement has to start long before the first pledge card is printed—and why the real goal is ministry expansion, not just square footage. Learn practical ways to protect your pastor, educate lay leaders and shape a true family conversation about your next campaign.​ Listen to Batman, Truckers and Secret Agents at lcef.org/forward or wherever you find podcasts.

🚨 Attention all CSBC Churches! 🚨 Our SoCal Outreach & Evangelism Grant applications are now OPEN! 🙌 Submit your application by July 15, 2026 for events taking place after September 2 📅✨Don’t miss this opportunity to receive funding and make a greater impact in your community! 💙 #CSBC #SoCalGrants #KingdomImpact #ChurchSupport

When your calling in life demands everything from you, take comfort in this – your entrance into eternity doesn’t depend on your performance, but on the One who already secured it for you. #military #veteran #milspouse #army #navy #marines #airforce #coastguard #spaceforce

Join us in celebrating our staff birthdays and anniversaries this month!

“The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice” (John 10:3-4). There is only one voice that can tell us the way to salvation. That voice is our Shepherd, Jesus. We hear his voice in the Word of God. He is the only true way to salvation, and when we know his voice, we will run away from every other voice trying to lead us astray. Jesus says, “Listen to me. Follow me. I know the way.” We trust that our Savior will guide us to a life lived to the fullest. He calls us each by name and leads us in the way we should go. So when lots of voices are shouting in your ears, listen to one voice—Jesus. He always knows the way. Prayer: Good Shepherd, sometimes it is hard for me to listen only to you. Other things in my life can sound really good! Help me to listen to your voice, because I know you want to lead me to eternal life with you. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsfamilydevotions #familydevotions #devotional #biblestudy #lutheransoffacebook

“Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever” (Psalm 23:6). You likely do not have a mortal enemy like young David did. But maybe you have felt chased in a more metaphorical way—constantly pursued by memories of past mistakes, of words or actions that make you blush or inwardly moan just to think of them years later. Jesus, our Good Shepherd, pursues his wandering sheep and gently restores us to himself. During our life on earth, the Lord invites us to find shelter in his house of worship; and when we depart from this earth one day, he will welcome us into his heavenly home, where “the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd…. And God will wipe every tear from their eyes” (Rev. 7:17). Prayer: (CW, 552:6) And so through all the length of days Your goodness fails me never; Good Shepherd, may I sing your praise Within your house forever! Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #dailydevotions #devotional #biblestudy #lutheransoffacebook

Our borrowers represent over 30,000 church seats available for seekers and worshipers to gather each week. This number includes 600 newly added seats from three congregations that, in 2025, were able to purchase permanent facilities—no longer needing to rent, set up, or search for a place to call their home church. See photos and read more about our recent loan projects: https://bit.ly/416MIHp.

The Prophet Micah reminds us what God asks of us: “To do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God.” — Micah 6:8. Not just believe. Not just gather. But to live in ways that bring healing and hope. Your gift to the Pentecost Offering helps emerging and affiliating communities of faith to grow, seeking connection and hope. #ccdocOn Pentecost, the Spirit did not stay in one place. It moved outward — across languages, cultures, and every barrier people believed separated them. In that moment, a new kind of community was born, shaped by courage, generosity, and love. That same Spirit is still moving today. Get resources for and support this year’s Pentecost Offering via the link below! #ccdoc

𝗖𝗛𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗧 𝗧𝗛𝗥𝗢𝗨𝗚𝗛 𝗨𝗦 ✝️ Interested in attending the 2026 WELS International Youth Rally this July or know someone who is? Today is the last day to take advantage of the early bird rate! ➡️ Learn more and register: https://hubs.li/Q04f1zMc0 #welsyouthrally2026 #welslutherans #wels

🏀 Throwback Thursday to when BFCAL had the honor of serving as Homecoming Game Sponsor! Jonathan Jarboe proudly presented the game ball—celebrating community, partnership, and Kingdom impact both on and off the court 🙌💙 #TBT #BFCAL #Homecoming #KingdomImpact #CommunityPartnership

MLC Day contributions fuel the Congregational Partner Grant Program, helping relieve the burden of student debt for our future called workers. Join others who support MLC’s mission to train men and women for futures in ministry. Mark your calendar for May 6. mlcday.com

“The House in Order Seminar at Mesquite Friendship Baptist Church was just the beginning of our legacy planning. The estate specialist at PhilanthroCorp was an absolute angel in getting us started in the whole process. The SBTF, PhilanthroCorp, and their associated Attorneys have been a blessing.” – James and Veronica • Learn more at sbtexasfoundation.com/house-in-order-seminar

Did you know LCEF offers lending support for LCMS school associations and RSOs that are planning what’s next for their ministry? Whether it’s adding classrooms, consolidating campuses, updating facilities or restructuring existing debt, our seasoned team helps ministries explore options and move forward with confidence in a way that supports long-term Gospel impact. Learn more (schools) ➡️ https://lcef.org/school/lending/ Learn more (RSOs) ➡️ https://lcef.org/organization/lending/ Start the conversation ➡️ https://lcef.org/school/lending/#meet-the-team #TogetherInFaith

Would you like an expert take on current investing? Spend an hour learning from our expert partners at Merrill Lynch’s Global Institutional Consulting Group during our Annual Investors’ Briefing (AIB) on Thursday, May 21, from 10 to 11 a.m. This event is virtual, so you can join from anywhere! https://tinyurl.com/n6v7ecfj #investing #churchfinance #umchurches #vaumf

Throwback Thursday to July, when our Chief Legal Officer Courtney Coates attended the Send Network Church Planter Family Retreat in beautiful Ojai 🏞️ BFCAL was honored to sponsor this impactful event—and provide cozy blankets for movie night under the stars 🎬🧺🌌 Grateful to support church planters and their families as they rest, connect, and recharge for the mission ahead 🙌 #ThrowbackThursday #ChurchPlanting #KingdomConnections #ResourcingMinistry

For more than 100 years, our partner KFUO Radio has been a faithful companion in Christ — a steady voice of teaching, comfort, and truth in a noisy world. Join KFUO Radio for three days of gratitude, stories, and opportunities to give. Learn more at KFUO.org.Sharathon begins today! We invite you to join us for three days of gratitude, stories, and opportunities to give as we celebrate the ministry God continues to bless through listeners like you. Learn more at kfuo.org/sharathon.

XP Summit is just a few days away. If you’re heading to Dallas this week, we would love to connect. Stop by and say hello to our team. Whether your church is in a building project, considering a loan, or simply navigating the financial complexities of ministry, we would love to have a conversation. You don’t need to do ministry alone. See you in Dallas. #XPSummit #ChurchLeadership #ExecutivePastor

“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows” (Psalm 23:5). Jesus Christ—both David’s descendant and his Lord—is the Shepherd King who displays lavish hospitality on us, the sheep of his flock. He took our shame and lowliness upon himself, dying in our place, so that he might share his glory with us. When Satan points out our sin, Jesus stuns him into silence, graciously inviting us to his Table where our Lord’s own body and blood assure us of forgiveness. Jesus, our Shepherd, welcomes us as honored guests, anointing us with joy and the Holy Spirit. Prayer: (CW, 552:5) You spread a table in my sight, A banquet here bestowing; Your oil of welcome, my delight; My cup is overflowing. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #dailydevotions #devotional #biblestudy #lutheransoffacebook

“There is no time in our lives, even if we don’t realize it, when the risen Lord Jesus is not with us.” Watch today’s chapel now on our YouTube ⬇️

🌟 Investing in connections that strengthen both mission and ministry—through intentional conversations and meaningful engagement ✨ Through institutional investing with BFCAL, we’re creating opportunities that go beyond finances—building relationships, fostering trust, and supporting Kingdom impact. Every connection helps equip churches and ministries to grow, lead, and reach their communities 🙌 Join us in supporting spaces where stewardship meets purpose, and where lives are impacted—one connection at a time 💙 👉 www.bfcal.org/donate #InstitutionalInvesting #KingdomConnections #ResourcingMinistry #FaithInAction

From watching a dancing ministry showcase their talent to celebrating the launch of Florida Disciples – Christian Church in Florida (Disciples of Christ)’s comprehensive campaign, it was a joy to gather with Disciples at First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Haines City for the Florida Regional Assembly! #ccdoc

#WednesdayintheWord

Midweek reminder from Gospel of John 16:24 ✨ “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.” Keep praying, keep trusting—He hears you 🙏💙 #MidweekVerse #John1624 #FaithInAction #TrustGod

A look into some of the wonderful things happening across our congregations. Thank you, Forward in Christ magazine, for sharing these with us! 𝙏𝙃𝙄𝙎 𝙄𝙎 𝙒𝙀𝙇𝙎 #welslutherans #wels

“If you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps” (1 Peter 2:20-21). We are called by Christ to follow his example. He tells us that we might suffer for doing good, because the world hasn’t changed too much since he was here. Sometimes people still make fun of Christians. Sometimes doing the right thing is hard. But through it all, Jesus is like a shepherd saying, “Come this way! Follow me!” Following Jesus can sometimes feel like that super long 15-hour road trip with no snacks or fun. Sometimes the road feels long. Sometimes things are hard. But we know where Jesus is taking us. He’s leading us somewhere far better than a beach, he’s leading us to heaven. And heaven will be better than anything we can imagine! Prayer: Jesus, our Good Shepherd, you endured many difficult things during your life on earth just so that we could be in heaven with you. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsfamilydevotions #familydevotions #devotional #biblestudy #lutheransoffacebook

“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me” (Psalm 23:4). The darkness of the valley may prevent us from seeing clearly, but it doesn’t keep our Lord from remaining in control. Even in those dark days, we can join with David in saying, “I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” Jesus, our Good Shepherd, watches over us and powerfully protects us from our greatest enemies: sin, death, and the devil. Not even death can separate us from the love of God, which is ours in Christ Jesus. “In all things God works for the good of those who love him” (Rom 8:28). Prayer: (CW, 552:4) In death’s dark vale I fear no ill with you, dear Lord, beside me, your rod and staff my comfort still, your cross before to guide me. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #dailydevotions #devotional #biblestudy #lutheransoffacebook

Check out this month’s issue of our virtual newsletter, Mission Forward! In it you’ll find out how to join our moderated Q&A conversation with President and CEO Rev. Dr. Courtney Stange-Tregear, an introduction to the latest addition to our Building and Capital Services Advisor team, and much more. #ccdoc

What influences a young person to consider church work? According to Rev. Dr. James Baneck, it starts in the home and the pew. On the latest episode of the Grace Place Podcast, Rev. Dr. Baneck discusses the “Set Apart to Serve” initiative and how building a “culture of recruitment” is seeing real results in our seminaries and the Concordia University System. Tune in to hear how we can all play a part in forming the next generation of pastors and teachers. Listen ➡️ lcef.org/listen

📊 Take the stress out of church finances and focus on what matters most—ministry 🙌💒 Through our partnership with WatersEdge, BFCAL provides reliable support—from bookkeeping to payroll—so your team can lead with clarity and confidence 💼✨ 👉 Learn more: www.bfcal.org/accounting #WeLoveChurches ❤️ #ResourcingMinistry #KingdomImpact

Congratulations to all receiving calls and assignments this week at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne-CTSFW and Concordia Seminary. May God bless your service as you share His love in new places and with new people. #TogetherInFaith

Whether you’re looking to cut costs or find a qualified expert, our team is here to support your church with professional, affordable accounting services—at a lower cost than hiring in-house staff. • Learn more at sbtexasfoundation.com/churchaccounting • Note: This service is available exclusively to Texas churches.

What influences a young person to consider church work? According to Rev. Dr. James Baneck, it starts in the home and the pew. On the latest episode of the Grace Place Podcast, Rev. Dr. Baneck discusses the “Set Apart to Serve” initiative and how building a “culture of recruitment” is seeing real results in our seminaries and the Concordia University System. Tune in to hear how we can all play a part in forming the next generation of pastors and teachers. Listen at lcef.org/listen

💙 Make your generosity go further. With a Charitable Gift Annuity through BFCAL, you can enjoy: ✅ Guaranteed income for life ✅ Potential tax benefits ✅ The joy of supporting Kingdom work for generations 🌿 Connect with us at 📞 909-738-4000 or 📧 info@bfcal.org #FaithfulStewardship #LegacyPlanning #BFCAL

Now may the God of peace, who brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, make you complete in everything good so that you may do his will, as he works among us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory forever. Amen. (Hebrews 13:20-21) —Bread for the Day

“He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake” (Psalm 23:2-3). King David, a former shepherd himself, may have longed for such simpler days later in life. But even in the worst of times, David knew where he could find rest. The Lord himself would refresh his soul with promises of love and forgiveness. When your soul is weighed down by sin and all its nasty consequences, Jesus gently invites you: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Mt 11:28) . . . Look to your Lord Jesus, who has already given you his own righteousness so that you stand before God holy and blameless. He gives you strength for the journey and refreshes your soul with his word and sacraments. Calm your heart and rest in the Lord! Prayer: (CW, 552:2) Where streams of living water flow, My Savior gently leads me, And where the verdant pastures grow, With food celestial feeds me. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #dailydevotions #devotional #biblestudy #lutheransoffacebook

Drs. Jonathan and Tammy Jarboe joined fellow SBC Foundation presidents and spouses from across the nation at Virginia Tech for a meaningful time of fellowship, inspiration, learning, and encouragement. 🤝✨ #KingdomConnections #LeadershipInMinistry #SBCFoundation

Calls can move quickly. When a new call is on the horizon, housing decisions often follow right behind. If you’re a Rostered Church Worker holding or considering call papers, you don’t have to explain your situation to every lender. LCEF understands the unique realities of calls, compensation and ministry moves, and we offer mortgage options designed with Rostered Church Workers in mind. If a new call might mean a new home, learn more about how we can walk with you: https://lcef.org/personal/rostered-church-workers/lending/​ — 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. Lutheran Church Extension Fund-Missouri Synod. 10733 Sunset Office Drive, Suite 300, St. Louis, MO 63127-1020. 800-843-5233. lcef.org. NMLS# 3444. LCEF Mortgage Loan Originators: Pamela Macinski (NMLS# 16679). Michelle Porter (NMLS# 1675886). Tricia Galczynski (NMLS# 1896183). Tara Appleton (NMLS# 738203). Marissa Strayhorn (NMLS# 2560503). Illinois Residential Mortgage Licensee (MB.0006057). Loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Law License (6037619). Texas Complaint/Recovery Fund Notice – Figure: 7 TAC§80.200(b): “CONSUMERS WISHING TO FILE A COMPLAINT AGAINST A COMPANY OR A RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE LOAN ORIGINATOR SHOULD COMPLETE AND SEND A COMPLAINT FORM TO THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF SAVINGS AND MORTGAGE LENDING, 2601 NORTH LAMAR, SUITE 201, AUSTIN, TEXAS 78705. COMPLAINT FORMS AND INSTRUCTIONS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DEPARTMENT’S WEBSITE AT WWW.SML.TEXAS.GOV. A TOLL-FREE CONSUMER HOTLINE IS AVAILABLE AT 1-877-276-5550. THE DEPARTMENT MAINTAINS A RECOVERY FUND TO MAKE PAYMENTS OF CERTAIN ACTUAL OUT OF POCKET DAMAGES SUSTAINED BY BORROWERS CAUSED BY ACTS OF LICENSED RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE LOAN ORIGINATORS. A WRITTEN APPLICATION FOR REIMBURSEMENT FROM THE RECOVERY FUND MUST BE FILED WITH AND INVESTIGATED BY THE DEPARTMENT PRIOR TO THE PAYMENT OF A CLAIM. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE RECOVERY FUND, PLEASE CONSULT THE DEPARTMENT’S WEBSITE AT WWW.SML.TEXAS.GOV”. All cash-out refinances and straight refinances in excess of 80% loan-to-value are not available in Texas. For more information on LCEF’s lending license go to lcef.org/state-disclosures/.

“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. All the believers were together and had everything in common” (Acts 2:42,44). In our reading for today, we hear about a group of believers who live and work together—and it sounds wonderful! It says they “were together and had everything in common.” That means they shared meals in their home and worshiped together. They enjoyed time together. Wow! Wouldn’t that be a fun group to be a part of? What do they know that we don’t? How did they figure it out? When we live and work and pray with other people who put God first, we can spread his Word to even more people. One day in heaven, we will live in a perfect community—one with no sadness or sin, where we will all glorify God without end. No fighting. No hurt feelings. No sin. Just joy . . . forever. Together! Prayer: Oh, Good Shepherd, today we read about believers who were committed to serving you with each other. Help us to serve you and give us a community of believers to support and work with us. We look forward to the day when we will be with all believers in the perfect community of heaven. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsfamilydevotions #familydevotions #devotional #biblestudy #lutheransoffacebook

“The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing” (Psalm 23:1). So why have countless generations of God’s people had these words of David on their lips, “The Lord is my shepherd. I shall not be in want”? Is it a calm expression of trust in God’s providence? Is it to remind themselves to be content, despite their feelings of loss, frustration, or fear? Or is it a prayer, asking the Lord to keep their minds focused on his love for them? You likely would not be surprised if I suggested it was all of the above. The Lord invites you to trust his love for you and his promises, which are all fulfilled in Jesus, the Good Shepherd. He bound himself to you and laid down his life for you. You can confidently say with David, “He is my shepherd. With him, I have everything I will ever need.” Prayer: (CW, 552:1) The King of love my shepherd is, whose goodness fails me never; I nothing lack if I am his, and he is mine forever. Amen. #wels #welslutherans #welsdailydevotions #dailydevotions #devotional #biblestudy #lutheransoffacebook

🙏✨ “May He give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed… May we shout for joy over your victory.” — Psalm 20:4–5 Praying that God aligns your desires with His purpose and fills your life with joy in every victory—big or small. 🙌💙 #VerseOfTheDay #Psalm20 #FaithInAction #JoyInTheJourney

Without the resurrection of Jesus, I would have to choose my own direction in life. I would be terrible at it, because, like a sheep, I can generally see only what’s in front of me at the moment, and I get myself into trouble. It is especially difficult for me to look far into my future as planned by Jesus. If he had not risen from the dead, I would be on my own. But he lives, and it makes a difference. I have the reliable direction of the Good Shepherd. He feeds us with his Word. He protects us from the roaring lion, Satan. He is leading us into the green pastures of eternal life. For centuries, the Church has observed this Fourth Sunday of Easter to celebrate that Jesus lives to be our Good Shepherd. #welslutherans #wels