New incentive loan aims to reflect PC(USA)’s inclusive values

July 24, 2017

Congregations wishing to make their facilities more accessible and inclusive of people living with disabilities have a new option for funding enhancements to their campuses: the Accessibility Loan from the Presbyterian Investment & Loan Program (PILP).

Church with handicap accessible ramp

The incentive loan is being introduced in response to Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) General Assembly affirmations of the recommendations made by the Advisory Committee on Social Witness Policy. The loan aims to help congregations live into a vision of a church that welcomes people with all abilities.

“Practicing hospitality is a cornerstone of our faith,” said Jim Rissler, president of PILP. “Creating physical spaces where all can participate fully in the life and leadership of the church is a key component to creating welcoming environments.”

Loans are available to qualifying congregations and other PC(USA) entities engaged in projects that purposefully render our buildings more accessible.

With lower interest rates, congregations are encouraged to renovate their buildings to ensure that our buildings reflect who we are as a community of faith. Projects could include elevators, ramps, accessible bathrooms, technology for people who are hearing-impaired or visually impaired and pew modifications.

PILP has been partnering with PC(USA) organizations for over 20 years to provide low-cost loans to churches, governing bodies and related entities of the denomination. The program funds millions in church loans each year, drawing on endowment funds of the General Assembly plus investor funds provided by Presbyterians across the country.

For more information on the Accessibility Loan or other investment and loan opportunities provided by PILP, visit pilp.pcusa.org, email loan.help@pcusa.org or call 800-903-7457, ext. 5865.

Clare Lewis, Presbyterian Investment & Loan Program

Today’s Focus:  Making church campuses more accessible

Let us join in prayer for:

PC(USA) Mission Co-Workers

Cathy Chang, Philippines
Juan Lopez, Philippines

PC(USA) Agencies’ Staff

Edgar Jones, PMA                                                                                          
Ray Jones, PMA           

Let us pray:

Jesus, since you worked in a carpenter’s shop and understand what is needed to turn rough-hewn wood into objects of beauty, bless those who use similar skills to make imposing church structures places that are welcoming to all. Amen.

Daily Readings

Morning Psalms 135; 145
First Reading 1 Samuel 24:1-22
Second Reading Acts 13:44-52
Gospel Reading Mark 4:1-20
Evening Psalms 97; 112