LCEF

We are proud to introduce the next chapter of Lutheran Church Extension Fund—a refreshed look, rooted in our mission to serve the church. This isn’t just a change in appearance; it’s a renewed commitment to walk alongside LCMS ministries and individuals.

"For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake." — 2 Corinthians 4:5 ⛪ Prince of Peace Lutheran Church 🌎 Cincinnati, Ohio

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

“He is not here, for he has risen, as he said.” —Matthew 28:6 Christ is risen! Death is defeated, sin is forgiven and hope is alive forever. Today we rejoice in the empty tomb and the living Savior who goes before us into every tomorrow.

On Good Friday we stand at the foot of the cross, where the innocent Son of God bore our sin, shame and sorrow. Because Jesus finished the work of salvation, we rest in His grace, even in the shadow of the cross.

On Maundy Thursday we remember Jesus, who knelt to wash His disciples’ feet and shared His body and blood for the forgiveness of sins. Lord Jesus, teach us to love as You have loved us.

As we wave our palms and lift our hearts in praise, we remember the triumphal entry of Jesus, our humble King who came to bring peace and salvation. May this Holy Week draw us closer to His love, His sacrifice and the hope we have in Him. 🌿✝️

Serving in ministry can feel like a treadmill that never stops. In the latest Grace Place Podcast episode, longtime DCE and consultant Kurt Bickel shares how clear mission, deep listening and trusting God’s abundance changed the way he led and lived. ➡️ lcef.org/listen

Church plans need more than rough ideas—clarity builds confidence. In this episode, Rev. Eric Kennaugh shares why specificity matters before you invite financial support: define what you’re building, what it costs and how it serves ministry.​ 🔊 Listen ➡️ lcef.org/forward

🐾 Meet Damascus, a comfort dog at St. Paul Lutheran Church and School in Napoleon, Ohio, quietly finding “the one who needs him most” in moments of grief and healing. Watch the full story on YouTube ▶️ youtu.be/MyOELs86VVc

A campaign doesn’t start with a goal number—it starts with people. In Ep. 10, the team talks about congregational campaign readiness: planning, stewardship conversation and early engagement, which brings the church family along together.​ Listen ➡️ lcef.org/forward

Episode 32 of the Grace Place Podcast with Dr. Bruce Hartung explores practical ways to encourage church workers, invest in their families and celebrate the joy of following Jesus together. Listen ➡️ lcef.org/listen

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” –Matthew 5:14 ⛪ Zion Lutheran Church, School & Preschool 🌎 Rapid City, S.D.

Did you know your congregation’s property can do more than meet today’s needs? LCEF’s Real Estate Solutions team brings decades of experience to help LCMS ministries with property decisions, excess land, school expansions or facility updates. More ➡️ lcef.org/RES

Church workers are often told, “Be well,” but rarely asked, “How can we walk with you?” In the latest Grace Place Podcast, Rev. Dr. Bruce Hartung talks about community for wellness and the need for congregations to care for workers. Listen ➡️ lcef.org/listen

Can a building shape ministry? At Long Island Lutheran Middle & High School, a bold transformation is proving that the spaces where students learn can also inspire faith and community. See how vision and mission came together ⤵️ interesttime.org/why-space-matt…

“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, Nebraska

Small churches are rediscovering their purpose and power, together in faith. Through LCEF’s Small Church Clarity workshops, congregations are gaining focus, forming partnerships and strengthening their mission to share Christ in their communities. Read⤵️ interesttime.org/from-workshops…

Learn more about the season of Lent, a time of "prayerful and penitential reflection” as we focus on the "holy sufferings and death of our Lord Jesus Christ.” witness.lcms.org/2008/keeping-a…

Camp isn’t just for kids. It’s where generations gather to share stories, faith and calling. Explore how LCEF and NLOMA are partnering to ensure the legacy of Lutheran camping continues to thrive. Read more ➡️ interesttime.org/from-mayflies-…

As we begin this Lenten season, may we turn our hearts to the One who restores, renews and sustains all things.