The Mid-America Region has leadership development funds available and all ministers are invited to apply!
This opportunity is a very positive outcome of the difficult decision to sell Rickman Center back in 2015. After the sale, one million dollars was invested as the Rickman Legacy Fund with the Christian Church Foundation. Twenty-five percent of the annual distribution from that amount is designated for leadership development. ( 75% is designated for outdoor ministries. Find more detail about the sale in the September 23, 2015 letter from then-Moderator Guy Adams here.)
“Leadership Development supports and nurtures Mid-America Disciples leaders by providing and promoting resources, events, grants, training, and retreats to increase congregational identity, connection, and vitality toward fulfilling our mutual mission and ministry.”
Grant applications are are reviewed four times per year with deadlines on December 1, February 1, May 1, and August 1.
The first grants were awarded last fall. Alex Ruth of Marshfield CC received a grant to continue his mentoring in iPEC's Coach Training Program. Kris Milliron of FCC Marshall received a grant to attend the Disciples Youth Ministry Network and Progressive Youth Ministry Conferences in North Carolina in March. In addition to these two grants, several pastors received funds to attend the annual Persons in Ministry Retreat, held with our United Church of Christ partners in ministry.
Applications are now being accepted for the February 1st review date. For this quarter the committee is especially encouraging endeavors involving Lenten worship and study.
Find more information about leadership development grants and the application here.
Learn more about other grant and scholarship opportunities here.