The disruption caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19) extends well beyond its primary health concerns to virtually every aspect of daily life including, but not limited to, economic impacts for individuals and congregations. Disciples Church Extension Fund (DCEF) understands that many churches will have trouble meeting their various financial obligations during this time of uncertainty. The inability to meet for worship and diminished congregational giving are the primary causes, along with loss of jobs in the economic slowdown.
Our goal is always to work with our congregational partners to benefit our shared mission. To respond with immediate assistance to congregations, DCEF will provide to Disciples congregations a two-month deferral of loan payments beginning with payments due April 1, 2020 through May 31, 2020. During this time, interest will accrue, but you will not be charged any late fees.
Due to the short timeframe before we draw payments from most accounts, the deferral on loan payments will take place automatically on all DCEF loans to congregations. This means there is nothing you need to do at this time to start the deferral. However, we also know that the impact on congregations will be different and, should your preference be to continue your regular payments, you may do so. If your preference is to continue payments please give us a call at 1-800-274-1883 or send an email to loans@disciplescef.org. If we collect your payments automatically from your checking account or DCEF Investments, we need to receive your notification by March 27, 2020.
In times of crisis like this, we need to be working together for the good of all. Our prayer is that this deferral of loan payments will provide funds for your congregation to continue ministering to your flock and helping to meet the needs of people in your community.
May God’s blessings and love continue to surround you and your ministry to others.
Erick D. Reisinger, President
Disciples Church Extension Fund
Regarding DCEF’s Loan Payment Deferral Plan, here is a brief summary of what you need to know or do:
- If you want to defer your loan payments for two months (April and May loan payments), you do not need to do anything. The deferral is automatic.
- If you want to continue to make loan payments, please send an email to loans@disciplescef.org or call 1-800-274-1883 by March 27.
Does the loan deferral also apply to Disciples units/related institutions? Christmount in particular?
Thanks so much for reaching out with your question. Our staff is in the process of contacting Christmount.
The automatic loan payment deferral isn’t available to Disciples organizations, but we will be working with these organizations to meet their needs on a case by case basis.
When will the deferred payments have to be repaid? (after the two months?, by the end of 2020?, at the end of the loan term?). Also, will the deferred payments be due all at once or over a period of two months?
Hi Rick, thank you for your comment. Please call us at 1-800-274-1883 or send an email to loans@disciplescef.org.