We wanted to share about this really cool opportunity for pastors! Lilly Endowment created a National Clergy Renewal Program through the Christian Theological Seminary specifically for the rest and refreshment of Clergy. There is both an Indiana Clergy Renewal Program and a National Clergy Renewal Program. To date, the Clergy Renewal Programs have provided grants to more than 2,500 congregations. What a blessing because this is much needed!
This past spring, eligible congregations were able to apply for grants up to $50,000 each to support a renewal program for their pastor and up to $15,000 of the grants could be used for congregational expenses associated with the renewal program. The application process begins in November and the deadline is April. The 2018 recipients were recently just announced this August. However, if you are interested in this program for 2019, keep checking this address for the November announcement of future opportunities for eligible congregations to apply: http://cpx.cts.edu/renewal/apply/national-program. This is also where you can find the most up-to-date details and requirements.
The National Clergy Renewal Program provides an opportunity for pastors to step away briefly from the persistent obligations of ministry life and engage in a period of renewal and reflection. They want to be clear that this renewal period is not to be used as a vacation but a time for intentional exploration and reflection; 'for drinking again from God's life-giving waters, for regaining enthusiasm and creativity for ministry'.
About Lilly Endowment Inc.
Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based private philanthropic foundation created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly and his two sons, Eli and J.K. Jr., with gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical company. The Endowment exists to support the causes of religion, education and community development. Lilly Endowment’s religion grant making is designed to deepen and enrich the religious lives of American Christians. It does this largely through initiatives to enhance and sustain the quality of ministry in American congregations and parishes. More information can be found at www.lillyendowment.org.
About Christian Theological Seminary Located in Indianapolis, IN, Christian Theological Seminary (CTS) is a fully accredited ecumenical seminary, open to all, affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). It offers nine graduate-level degree programs, each rooted in a rich history of biblical scholarship, theological openness, and spiritual discernment. More than 30 denominations are represented among CTS faculty and students. Additional information about CTS is available at www.cts.edu.
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