Greetings from Indianapolis! I am writing to provide you with an update on Disciples Church Extension Fund (DCEF) and its response to the COVID-19 emergency.

Two weeks ago all of our staff began working remotely from their homes. At that time, with the growing COVID-19 crisis and the safety and health of our staff in mind, our Executive Staff Team decided to continue working remotely through at least March 27, 2020. Since that time, we have taken a couple of actions to provide financial relief for congregations with loans and to extend our time working remotely.

To respond with immediate financial relief to congregations, DCEF is providing to Disciples congregations a two-month deferral of loan payments beginning with payments due April 1, 2020 through May 31, 2020. This plan is automatic and congregations that choose to continue making payments are asked to notify DCEF at 1-800-274-1883 or send an email to loans@disciplescef.org.

As the crisis continues to unfold and with the State of Indiana under a “Stay at Home” Executive Order, our staff will continue to work from their homes until May 4, 2020. This decision may be reevaluated and the date may change based on the status of the emergency and conditions in Indiana. I am extremely confident that DCEF, through our very competent and dedicated staff, will serve you and work with you to meet your needs.

The market volatility can be stressful for many, particularly for investors. DCEF continues to manage our investments with the full integrity of the policies that have carried us through the ebbs and flows of our country’s financial markets for many years.

What we want our DCEF community to know is that we are still here and fully operational, except for onsite consultations, as our staff is not traveling until further notice. If you have a question about your Loan (current, pending, or anticipated), Investments (current and new), Building related services (ongoing or anticipated), New Church Ministry programs, or financial contributions, please reach out to us without hesitation. Our staff is fully equipped and available to answer your questions or address your concerns.

This crisis has highlighted the valuable partnerships we have built over the years with our fellow Disciples, congregations, and ministries. We pray for and look forward to brighter days ahead springing up new ways we can support you in doing God’s work.

Erick D. Reisinger
President