Because of the importance of this connectional cycle, priority in the loan approval process will be given to those churches with good mission giving histories. Also, churches with good mission giving histories may be eligible for discounts of up to 3/4% of a percent on interest rates.
For the purposes of loan applications, all giving that is directed through the Presbytery or Synod, toward causes that are in the mission budgets of the Presbytery, Synod or General Assembly, are considered. This includes the following:
Not included are "Extra Commitment" projects, which are worthy causes, but fall outside the scope of the current budget.
Discounts of up to 3/4 of a percent off of the standard interest rates for Lines of Credit, Mortgages, and James M Muzzy, and Equity Sharing loans are available based on a borrower's Mission Giving History:
10.0% or higher 3/4 of a percent discount
7.0% to 9.9% 1/2 of a percent discount
5.0% to 6.9% 1/4 of a percent discount
Discounts are based on the previous calendar year's qualified Mission Giving, and are calculated by staff as part of the loan approval process based on review of financial statements, mission treasury statements, and other sources. The discount is set for the term of the loan, or 5 years, whichever is shorter. Discounts are recalculated at all renewals, conversions, and adjustment periods.
If, at the discretion of staff, the previous calendar year is deemed to not fairly represent the applicant's Mission Giving history, a different calculation period may be used. The Mission Finance Committee reserves the right to review the Mission Giving status of a borrower at times other than those noted above.
For more information regarding Mission Giving Discounts, contact the Loan Coordinator at (800) 754-0669.