Invest In the Misison
Church Extension Loan Fund* (CELF): Building Churches Through Smart Investing*Not available in all states.
God has blessed you
Your investments can bless others
Make a Difference
Your investment directly supports church expansion and development, ensuring that new and existing congregations can grow and thrive.
Earn Competitive Returns
With rates ranging from 4.0% to 6.0%, your investment doesn’t just serve a purpose – it also generates a strong financial return.
Faith-Based Investing
Align your financial goals with your values by investing in a program that enhances ministry work and strengthens the community.
Invest in the future of faith
You don't have to choose between mission and money
Churches across North America face challenges in securing funding for vital building projects. Many congregations struggle to find affordable loans, limiting their ability to expand or maintain essential facilities for worship and service. Internally, it can be frustrating to see your church’s vision for growth stall while resources are available to empower it. You want to take action but feel uncertain about navigating the complexities of financing these projects.
testimonials
CELF has been essential to our church launch and the success we have seen. As a new church, securing a loan through traditional methods would have been impossible. CELF provided us with the opportunity to get our ministry off the ground in a big way!
Finding a meeting place in Missoula, MT, was challenging to say the least. When we came across a church facility for sale, we were excited but cautious. Without the help of NAM and the CELF fund, there is no way we could be meeting in a building of our own. We are very thankful that this opportunity is available to help ministries move forward!
As a member of a former NAM church plant and as a current CELF investor, I have seen for decades how CELF benefits churches, individuals, and budgets alike. I’m grateful for the opportunity to steward my resources well by investing in a fund that directly promotes Gospel ministry!
Your Investment Path
Getting started is easy
Make your investment
Begin with as little as $500 Church Extension Loan Fund (CELF).
Choose Your Schedule
Interest on your investment is paid monthly or compounded, whichever you choose.
Support Churches
Know your your investment is making a lasting impact aligned with your values.
A Partner you can trust
Protecting Your Investment
For more than 40 years, the Church Extension Loan Fund has effectively managed funds aimed at supporting Free Will Baptist churches. In addition to being overseen by the Board, Executive Director, and Chief Financial Officer, the Church Extension Loan Fund is also audited annually by a CPA firm.
CELF maintains an accountant balance of up to 15% of total assets at all time with a consistent five-star rated bank. No funds are ever invested in stocks or bonds.
We help pastors and planters get the funding they need
- ZPurchase a permanent location
- ZMake capital improvements
- ZExpand ministry space
Worthwhile investment, worthy cause
Current Interest Rates
Our rate scale for investments is:
- 3.5% for $500-$24,999
- 4.0% for $25,000-$49,999
- 4.5% for $50,000-$99,999
- 5.0% for $100,000-$499,999
- 5.25% for $500,000-$999,999
- 5.5% for $1 million and up
Rates are in effect as of August 1, 2026.
May not be available in all states.
To start investing or to apply for a ministry loan, contact Teresa Womack
Teresa can be reached via email at teresa@nafwb.org or by phone at (615) 760-6137.
Need to make a withdrawal? Do so by completing this form.
Church Extension Loan Fund
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the CELF investment program?
The Investment Program exists to provide a financial base for the Church Extension Loan Fund. The loan fund, in turn, issues loans to churches and organizations through an approved application process. As each loan is repaid, those funds again can be loaned to other churches to provide a perpetual source of funds.
What is the plan of the Church Extension Loan Fund?
Investment Notes are offered at varied rates of interest. These notes of any amount are available to persons interested in advancing North American Ministries while at the same time earning a competitive rate of interest on their investment.
What is the relationship between CELF and North American Ministries?
The Church Extension Loan Fund Program is within the framework of the North American Ministries. The same Board serves both corporations. However, the CELF Program is a separate legal entity and is responsible for its transactions, assets, and liabilities.
Does the CELF investment program earn a profit?
The Church Extension Loan Fund is a not-for-profit religious corporation. Therefore, the profit earned from the program will be used to assist in other ministry projects.
How is interest paid?
Interest is paid monthly or semi-annually. The method of payment is optional to the investor. Interest may be paid by check monthly or it may be added to the principal and compounded each month for the duration of the note. All funds, whether a withdrawal is made or interest paid, can be sent directly to your checking account through EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer).
Who oversees the funds?
The Board, Executive Director, and Chief Financial Officer of the corporation oversee the Church Extension Loan Fund. The Accounting Administrator receipts and expends the funds. Persons involved in this procedure are adequately bonded. An annual audit is conducted by a CPA firm. A monthly report is submitted to the North American Ministries Board.
When can an investment be withdrawn?
The investment can be withdrawn upon request. A thirty (30) day notice will be required. In cases of larger amounts of $500,000.00 and up, more than a thirty (30) day notice will be needed. Typically, funds are expended within a few days of notice. There will be no penalty for early withdrawal of deposits. You will also need to fill out the withdrawal form below.
What about variable interest rates?
If it becomes necessary to adjust the rate of interest on your note, you will be notified thirty (30) days in advance.
Are investments taxable?
Yes, even though the Church Extension Loan Fund is a not-for-profit organization, the interest paid to the investor is declared income and is taxable. The investor will receive a 1099 INT at year-end.
How can I start an investment with CELF?
An investment can be started anytime with a $500 minimum deposit and filling out the online investment form below or requesting a hard copy. If using a hard copy complete the form and send it with a check to:
Church Extension Loan Fund
P.O. Box 5002
Antioch, TN, 37011-5002
If you have any questions or need more information about starting your investment, contact Teresa Womack by email (teresa@nafwb.org) or phone (615-760-6132).