Your Financial Ministry Partner, the BMLA

By EMILY SIMPSON
Baptist Progress Editor

​Any church that has experienced the blessing of a growing, healthy congregation, understands that blessing usually comes with the challenge of space. When this occurs, finding a place that fits the size and needs of the congregation can be easier said than done. It is a blessing then, that a ministry like the Baptist Missionary Loan Association exists.
 
In 1951, members of the Baptist Missionary Association of Texas had a vision and thought it important to develop a loan association. The purpose; to aid new churches as they grew and sought construction of their own buildings for worship. This move allowed BMAT churches to work directly with the association, instead of relying on banks.
 
Today, the BMLA is directed by Jerry Fulton who took over for longtime director Jerry Burnaman who has since passed.
 
“Bro. Burnaman asked me if I would be interested in succeeding him as director. My quick reply was no; that would probably be a boring job dealing with numbers all day,” Fulton admits his original reluctance. Yet, Burnaman’s alternative idea to invite Fulton onto the board of trustees helped expose the reality of the position and ministry.
 
“The role actually was very rewarding in that I would be able to help the dreams of pastors and churches come true by providing them with loans as the Lord blessed them with numerical growth,” Fulton explains. Upon Burnaman’s passing, Fulton had become convinced to do the job. 

Two churches assisted by the BMLA - Round Prairie in Fairfield, and Saginaw Family in Saginaw

Two churches assisted by the BMLA - Round Prairie in Fairfield, and Saginaw Family in Saginaw

More than just a money lender, the BMLA has always stood as a ministry partner with the churches of the BMAT. And as of 2021, the ministry opened its services to the entire BMA of America, expanding its impact.
 
Investments with the BMLA stand apart from investments made with a typical financial institution. Any church or individual can make a contribution to the BMLA. Interest deposits compound monthly. As of August 1, 2026 (rates are subject to change) investment certificates that work like certificates of deposit, are offered at three percent with a minimum deposit of $1,000, and share accounts are offered at two percent with a deposit minimum of $5.
 
BMLA rates are competitive and churches do not have to place a downpayment in order to obtain a loan. Closing costs are minimal, acceptance rates are high, there is no red tape and fast responses are just some of the benefits of working with the BMLA. Additionally, Bro. Fulton offers his own council, a luxury not usually provided by banks.
 
“I am happy to meet with building committees, pastors and staff to explain how things work with the BMLA loan process and/or investments,” Fulton explains. 

Sovereign Life Fellowship in Longview

Sovereign Life Fellowship in Longview

Sovereign Life Fellowship in Longview

​BMLA has stewarded the finances of BMA churches for years. They are a trusted source even to those outside of the BMA.
 
“We have an investor who is not affiliated with the BMA who calls or stops by often just to see how we are doing. He personally brings people to our office having convinced them to invest with us,” Fulton shares.
 
With commitment to future generations, the BMLA stands ready to help your church with property purchases, erecting and equipping new buildings. If you’re interested in learning more and would like to get in touch with Bro. Fulton, you can email him at [email protected] or call at 972-923-0758.

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