Discernment Labs
Forecasted
Discernment Labs support faith leaders in testing discernment practices that help young adults explore vocation, meaning, and God’s call, including paths in Christian ministry and service.
Funder: Forum for Theological Exploration
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2026 (Collegiate and Congregational Cohorts) | April 2027 (Church-Related Organizations Cohorts)
Funding Amounts: Project grants up to $15,000 within an 18-month learning journey; retreat expenses covered except travel
Summary: Discernment Labs support faith leaders testing practices that help young adults explore vocation, Christian ministry, and service.
Key Information: Applicants must already work in an established young-adult program and be responsible for or oversee its budget.
Description
The Forum for Theological Exploration (FTE) runs Discernment Labs for faith leaders who accompany young adults as they explore meaning, purpose, and God’s call in their lives. This cohort-based program combines peer learning and project funding to strengthen vocational discernment and the exploration of Christian ministry and service.
Over an 18-month learning journey, participants engage with FTE’s DISCERN Together Framework: six disciplines of discernment, the science behind their efficacy, and a process for implementing discernment practices in different contexts. Leaders reflect on their existing practices, identify strengths and areas needing support, and use project grants to experiment in their own settings. Retreats, facilitator coaching, and an online community support the work. At the closing retreat, participants share what they learned and how the disciplines affected the young adults they accompany.
