Decades-Long Partnership Sustains Congregation’s Changing Needs

Tapping the full mission potential of an 87-year-old church building can be daunting—especially when even basic systems like heating start to fail. But a partnership with Disciples Church Extension Fund (DCEF) that began more than a decade ago has provided Hope Central Church new life in ministry.

It was 2013 when Hope Central first reached out to DCEF. The old oil furnace had served the Boston congregation well, but once it died, there was no reviving it. With a cold winter just months away, the congregation set about replacing it—including hiring an engineering firm and creating a capital campaign. When funds fell short, the Disciples and United Church of Christ merger congregation reached out to DCEF for help.

Rev. Terry Steeden, HCC’s community minister, hosted DCEF advisors for an initial consultation. The visit resulted in two loans—one for asbestos removal and the other was a green loan to upgrade the HVAC system. The green loan, one of DCEF’s renovation loans, freed up funds that HCC used to insulate the sanctuary ceiling.

With maintenance issues addressed, the congregation expanded its ministry in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood, helping fund neighborhood groups and offering space for community needs. They shared the church parking lot with commuters during the work week, hosted a dance art studio in the lower part of the church building, and shared space with a Hispanic congregation. Before long, they found themselves with a new problem: they were pinched for space.

So, in 2019, Rev. Terry turned back to DCEF for another initial consultation visit. Building and Capital Services Advisor Jim Michel and now-DCEF President Belinda King advised them to request a building evaluation. This service offered a comprehensive look at the church building and campus to assess how to use those assets to better serve the church’s mission.

Even with an interruption by the COVID-19 pandemic, the congregation has resumed its quest, to leverage its property for mission in the community—aided by a long-standing relationship with DCEF.

“We partner with congregations as they steward all their assets: building, finances, and the people who fuel their ministry,” says DCEF President Belinda King. “By reminding churches of all they bring to their mission, we help them find the sweet spot for a thriving ministry.”

For those considering a planned gift, remember DCEF and our mission. Your generous legacy gift will help countless others connect with God and each other. Please contact us at 1.800.274.1883 or gifts@disciplescef.org to learn more.