Make the most of your building
With our vast experience and our focus on church and ministry construction projects, the Mission Investment Fund is uniquely positioned to be a resource for your congregation or ministry. Contact our Regional Managers for personalized guidance at any step along the journey. Our services are entirely free.
Worship Facilities Self-Assessment
A church building has the potential to be a wonderful asset and tool for facilitating ministry, and for helping people (including visitors) feel at ease and welcome. Is your building helping to support your ministry’s witness? The attached guide provides 34 questions to ask as you evaluate your current church property and grounds.
Download the assessment
Clean Energy and Care for Creation Self-Assessment
This guide will walk you through a checklist of heating, cooling, recycling, purchasing and other practices to help you identify energy-saving improvements at your congregation. Many improvements will pay for themselves in energy savings; and investing in energy efficient and earth-friendly practices also provides an immediate return in caring for God’s creation.
Download the assessment
Church Property Resource Hub
The Church Property Resource Hub of the ELCA exists to help ministries navigate the challenges and opportunities associated with owning property and real estate. Find resources, courses, success stories and other information to inspire your next steps. Resources include guidance for mission planning, community conversations and income generation through rentals, cell phone towers and more.
Visit the Hub
Church Building & Renovation Project Checklist
Not sure where to start? This checklist walks your congregation through key steps in planning a building or renovation project — from discernment and early planning to financing and construction decisions.
Download the ChecklistWhat partnership makes possible
When congregations and ministries partner with the Mission Investment Fund, ideas turn into projects that strengthen their ability to serve. From essential repairs to major expansions, MIF provides financing and support that help ministries care for their buildings and create spaces that better reflect their mission. The examples below highlight the breadth of what partnership can make possible across the ELCA.
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Urgent needs like structural issues, leaks or outdated systems can disrupt ministry. MIF helps congregations address repairs quickly while supporting long‑term stability.
Common repair projects:
Roof replacements
HVAC updates
Structural and safety improvements
Parking lot resurfacing
Code or insurance compliance
Project completed by a ministry like yours:
Trinity Lutheran Church — Jacksonville, FloridaA Florida congregation uncovered significant structural issues during a roof project. MIF helped them stabilize their historic building and repair interior damage so ministry could continue uninterrupted.
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Large projects require clear vision, strong planning and intentional financing.
MIF can support:
New building construction
Ministry or program wing additions
Major remodels
Long‑term campus planning
Project completed by an ELCA ministry:
Abiding Hope Lutheran — Littleton, ColoradoA Colorado congregation acquired new property to create an inclusive nature‑based preschool for neurodiverse children. With MIF’s support, they expanded their mission and impact.
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MIF helps congregations evaluate affordability and structure a path toward acquiring buildings or land.
We assist with:
Down payments
Affordability analysis
Land or building purchases
First facility acquisition planning
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When loan terms no longer support your mission or financial stability, refinancing can strengthen stewardship.
Refinancing may be right if:
A balloon payment is approaching
Rates are shifting
You want longer terms or lower payments
Current terms no longer serve your mission
Project completed by an ELCA ministry:
Maple Grove Lutheran Church — Maple Grove, MinnesotaA Minnesota congregation nearing a balloon payment refinanced with MIF and secured an additional loan for roof repairs, improving both short‑ and long‑term financial health.
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As ministries evolve, spaces may need updates to strengthen welcome and functionality.
We often support:
Sanctuary or fellowship hall renovations
ADA improvements like ramps and lifts
Solar or energy‑efficiency upgrades
Education or community program spaces
Project completed by ELCA congregations:
First Lutheran Church — Lincoln, NebraskaA Nebraska church partnered with MIF to improve campuswide accessibility, adding ADA‑compliant entrances, restrooms and flexible seating along with energy‑efficient upgrades.
Let’s Bring Your Project to Life
Wherever you are in the planning process, we’re ready to help. Call us today at (877) 886-3522 to learn more or to request a free consultation.