Congregational Reps

Who are the CEF Congregational Representatives and K.I.D.S. Coordinators?

A CEF congregational representative (K.I.D.S. Coordinator) is a visible, local CEF presence in his / her home congregation.  Congregational Representatives are the vital link and communication conduit that promote the CEF ministry at the local congregational level.

All congregations are encouraged to identify a CEF congregational representative or co-representatives. Congregational reps will receive support from their circuit rep (if applicable) as well as Alberta-British Columbia District CEF staff members. We often recruit through our Pastors and Church Workers to find someone suitable for the volunteer position.  We encourage them to put together their congregation’s “team” that may include:  the CEF Representative, K.I.D.S. Coordinator, their spouses, perhaps their children, Pastor, Church Secretary, other key staff members / church workers, others who are already involved in CEF, friends who feel strongly about CEF. 

What are the Responsibilities?

Responsibilities of a CEF Representative / K.I.D.S. Coordinator include:

  • Know as much as you can about CEF investment offerings
  • Keep informed of CEF-funded building activities in the District
  • Explain to fellow investors how their CEF savings are benefiting others
  • Sell K.I.D.S. Savings Stamps
  • Encourage those not yet participating in CEF’s ministry to do so
  • Attend the CEF Conferences held each 1 – 1 ½ years

Congregational representatives are not expected to develop a detailed knowledge of all CEF products and services, but they can be most helpful to their congregation by understanding how CEF might be of assistance in various situations: borrowing, building, investing, and other congregational planning activities.    

When, Where and How Does All of this Happen?

Many opportunities present themselves to share the ministry of CEF and there are many methods to share Church Extension:

  • Using tools like worship bulletins and newsletters to encourage participation.
  • Talking to people (individuals, groups and the congregation).
  • Coordinate promotion and activities of the CEF Rep & K.I.D.S. Coordinator
  • Praying for God to bless CEF’s mission and ministry.
  • All of the above and more!

 A few other things to remember:

1. We ask the CEF Representative and K.I.D.S. Coordinator to “keep your pastor / secretary / other church workers ‘in the loop’” so that they can highlight your messages and lend support

2.  Keep current materials on hand and destroy any outdated materials – not sure – ask us!

3.  Read District publications / Website for Church Extension news

4.  Listen for constructive criticism or ideas for improvement for Church Extension

5.  Have the congregation consider making the CEF Representative part of the council

6.  Provide time for a CEF Report at voters’ / congregational meetings

The Alberta-British Columbia District Church Extension Fund office provides print resources such as: posters, bulletin inserts, bulletin and newsletter announcements, and brochures. 

Why Does CEF Need Congregational Representatives / K.I.D.S. Coordinators?

In an effort to be good stewards, CEF strives to keep its expenses as low as possible.  This would not be possible without the congregational representative network.  CEF relies heavily upon our congregational representatives to get the word out about CEF investment opportunities and to encourage ABC District members to invest in CEF.

CEF is able to make affordable loans to ABC District congregations, Lutheran schools and other ministry organizations, because of the faithful men and women who invest a portion of their savings in CEF.  CEF investors earn competitive rates of interest and maintain accessibility of funds.

To find out more or how to become a CEF Representative or K.I.D.S. Coordinator in your congregation contact us.