By RaeAnn Slaybaugh With rates near historic lows, it makes a lot of sense for a church to consider refinancing its debt right now. Like many houses of worship, Reston Bible Church (RBC) in Dulles, Va., wanted to take advantage of this lending climate while the opportunity existed. In particular, Executive Pastor Bruce Campbell was […]
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At New Life Church of Arkansas, becoming debt-free — while continuing to expand across the state — are co-equal priorities. Here’s how it’s doing both successfully. At the financial helm of one of the nation’s fastest-growing churches — with 18 campuses across Arkansas — Finance Director and CFO Trip Leach has his hands (blessedly) full. […]
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A commitment to consistent financial stewardship — and the guidance of a like-hearted lending partner — enabled Blackhawk Church to set a course for debt elimination. By RaeAnn Slaybaugh For the finance team at Blackhawk Church in Madison, Wisc., solid financial stewardship is a priority. Led by Director of Accounting & Administration Jon Mueller and […]
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Backed by a team with financial finesse — plus, a church-centric banking partner — Odell Dickerson, Jr., and New Psalmist are enjoying streamlined processes, savings By RaeAnn Slaybaugh Maybe you were familiar with Odell Dickerson Jr., before you saw him on our cover. As one of the country’s most sought-after consultants and keynote speakers […]
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After struggling with the emotional and financial impacts of an international pandemic for over a year, churches and nonprofits are turning their attention to the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) for additional help and support. The Employee Retention Credit, under the CARES Act, encourages businesses to keep employees on their payroll by providing a tax credit […]
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A long-time church lending expert talks about how churches navigated COVID-era financing challenges — and the lessons they’ll carry forward. Tell me about WatersEdge and your history with the company. Jerry Vaughan: WatersEdge Ministry Services (formerly The Baptist Foundation of Oklahoma) has been making loans to churches since 1953. Personally, I’ve been here almost 21 […]
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One of the most challenging aspects of growth in a church can be the preparation and coordination of balancing space needs with financial means. After all, the physical building can mean so much to your church family. You want to have a certain feeling when you walk in the building. You want the building to […]
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Though I’ve been blessed to work with churches for more than two decades, I learned a long time ago: never say “I’ve seen it all.” The past year is the perfect example of why. Without a doubt, 2021 provided us with new and unique challenges — but it also confirmed some emerging trends and some […]
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By Alina Parizianu, CFP®, MBA, RICP® Most people don’t like to think about life insurance coverage. However, in the event of your death, having it can mean your family will be taken care of financially. Proper life insurance coverage can eliminate concerns about money and finances as loved ones grieve your death. Even modest funerals […]
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Too often, investing for retirement is the “elephant in the room.” Many professionals — particularly clergypersons — aren’t adequately prepared. Here, a panel of CFP® professionals from MMBB Financial Services (mmbb.org) and ministry leaders bring the topics down to earth. Their goal: make retirement investing more manageable, even (and maybe especially) if you’re advanced in […]
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