Ministry and Mission

Stories about churches, messages from our President and CEO, news and more

Seeing the cross, knowing CIF

At the crossroad of decisions, beliefs can become clearer. Will this financial choice support my values, our values and the priorities of God’s Kingdom? The cross of Christ has always been central to all we do at CIF and has been part of several of our logos for decades. But does everyone see it in… Continue Reading

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Perceptions and realities can both drive us

“At CIF, we want to do all that we can to help ministries thrive. We are a Christian nonprofit that is accountable to the Lord and to our mission of Kingdom expansion.” Sometimes the obvious isn’t as obvious as we might think. Each of us has the ability to convince ourselves that something is different… Continue Reading

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Joy in Jesus name, His plans, Kingdom work, the cross

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 What a joy it is to see and hear Christ’s name at Christmas. The preparations, decorations and… Continue Reading

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Church building generations on foundation of faith

Senior Pastor Andy Kvernen with Cornerstone Community Church in Marshfield, Wis. touches on the congregation’s capital campaign with CIF and a phased approach for its $3.6 million project that will begin in the spring of 2025. More room was needed for youth ministry and offices and the church has expanded its staff. Additionally, a facelift… Continue Reading

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To choose and be chosen

“As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 2:4-5 (ESV) During the Thanksgiving… Continue Reading

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Realizing the full loan package

Sometimes, church leaders can get heavily focused on the interest rate for a church loan as the sole factor in choosing a lender. No doubt, it is important, but there are also many other factors to consider – such as additional fees, term length, loan covenants, and annual requirements to name a few. It is… Continue Reading

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Q&A – Reserve cash

Question: Churches exist to do ministry. How does a church balance that overarching mission with the need to save for the unexpected and build up reserves to cover property-related expenses, including maintenance for buildings, updates and expansion? Answer: Being good stewards of financial resources requires prudent planning both now and in the future. We advise… Continue Reading

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Church leaders talk partnership

Two California churches, one two hours east of Los Angeles and the other on the ocean nearby, talk about the value of having a partner in ministry that is experienced and brings expert level help in the financial realm. “You get an organization that cares about the church, that loves the church,” said Pastor-Elder Chris… Continue Reading

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