Ministry Moments

Explore the financial and campus foundation your congregation needs before launching a successful ministry expansion campaign. In this episode, hosts Rev. John Glover, Rev. Tom Eggebrecht, Rev. Eric Kennaugh and Rev. Kris Kunkel discuss evaluating current financial health, developing a comprehensive campaign financial plan and creating a capital maintenance plan that builds congregational trust. L...

Before launching a ministry expansion campaign (sometimes called a capital campaign), your congregation needs clarity on three critical areas: current ministry operations, a thoughtful planning process and well-defined campaign ministry goals. Join hosts Rev. John Glover, Rev. Tom Eggebrecht, Rev. Eric Kennaugh and Rev. Kris Kunkel as they explore why many congregations underestimate the power of...

 What did you want to be when you grew up—a Batman-style superhero, a truck driver on the mission field, a Secret Service agent or a professional actor? In this episode of the Ministry Moments Podcast, Reverends John Glover, Tom Eggebrecht, Eric Kennaugh and Kris Kunkel share childhood dreams and how God redirected each of them into pastoral ministry and ministry support roles. They unpack why lea...

Rev. John Glover is joined by Reverends Kris Kunkel, Eric Kennaugh and Tom Eggebrecht in launching a new series on campaign readiness for ministry expansion.​ Today’s focus: the congregation’s readiness, with practical guidance on why the planning process matters as much as the campaign itself. The team discusses starting (and normalizing) stewardship conversations, inviting input early through to...

Join the Ministry Solutions team as they pull back the curtain on what LCEF calls a Ministry Expansion Campaign and why that language matters. Instead of chasing dollars or drywall, they describe a deeply spiritual, family-style process that keeps ministry first, engages the whole congregation and focuses on how facilities ultimately facilitate ministry in a community. Join Rev. John Glover, Rev....

What does it take to move from “we should do more” to a shared, actionable plan for ministry? In this episode of the Ministry Moments Podcast, Rev. John Glover is joined by Rev. Tom Eggebrecht, Rev. Kris Kunkel and Rev. Eric Kennaugh to walk through LCEF’s Ministry Clarity process for congregations of every size. They unpack guiding statements, mission pillars, SOAR analysis and goal setting that...

Step into the heart of Christmas ministry with a mix of treasured traditions and practical tips for church leaders and worship teams. Episode 7 of the Ministry Moments Podcast brings together uplifting childhood memories and real-world advice for making Advent and Christmas Eve services more welcoming, accessible and meaningful to guests. Join Revs. John Glover, Tom Eggebrecht, Kris Kunkel and Eri...

Leadership commitment events are an important way to inspire ministry expansion and build momentum within the church. In this episode, hosts Revs. John Glover, Eric Kennaugh, Tom Eggebrecht and Kris Kunkel explore the biblical foundation of leaders going first, inspired by David in 1 Chronicles 29, and share practical insights on how these events celebrate leaders, inspire congregations and drive...

Join Revs. John Glover, Tom Eggebrecht, Eric Kennaugh and Kris Kunkel as they tackle a question every pastor faces: "Can you preach on the issues of our time?" Together, they explore the challenges of addressing cultural topics in ministry while keeping the pulpit focused on Christ crucified and risen. From the importance of Bible studies and conversations to the relevance of the lection...

Are you struggling to identify new leaders, increase participation in ministry or align people, facilities and finances toward your mission? In this episode, the Ministry Solutions team tackles the challenge of leadership development in the church. From practical strategies like direct invitations and short-term task forces to mentoring emerging leaders, our panel shares actionable insights to hel...

Facilities facilitate ministry. What does that really mean? In this episode of Ministry Moments, the LCEF Ministry Solutions team shares why the shift from “capital campaigns” to “ministry expansion campaigns” is more than semantics—it’s a call to center vision and mission first. Don’t just maintain your building, multiply your mission. Listen in and be inspired to dream big for your congregation....

In Episode 2 of the Ministry Moments Podcast, LCEF Ministry Solutions team members unpack a surprising shift: the decline in church attendance has slowed, and young adults may be leading the way back. The team discusses data, cultural trends and how churches can welcome new and returning members with clarity and hope. LCEF is a nonprofit religious organization; therefore, LCEF Investments are not...

Meet members of the LCEF Ministry Solutions team as they share their journeys into ministry and what it means to lead with faith, grace and purpose. In the first episode of the Ministry Moments Podcast, we explore why there's no single right way to do ministry and how your congregation can thrive in its context. Join Rev. John Glover, Rev. Tom Eggebrecht, Rev. Eric Kennaugh and Rev. Kris Kunkel as...

New podcast from LCEF dropping August 20th, 2025! Join Rev. John Glover, Rev. Tom Eggebrecht, Rev. Eric Kennaugh and Rev. Kris Kunkel from the Ministry Solutions team at Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF) as they delve into topics to encourage you to move your ministry forward according to God’s will. The Ministry Moments Podcast from LCEF features pastoral insights from ordained LCEF employees...