Lilly Endowment Clergy Renewal Programs
The Lilly Endowment Clergy Renewal Programs fund intentional renewal leaves for pastors to foster creativity, reflection, and revitalization in ministry, benefiting both clergy and their congregations.
Funder: Lilly Endowment
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (Indiana Clergy Renewal Program full proposal) | March 2027 (National and Indiana Clergy Renewal Program full proposal)
Funding Amounts: Up to $60,000 per congregation; up to $20,000 may be used for congregational expenses; grant period covers up to two years.
Summary: Supports Christian congregations in the US and Puerto Rico to provide pastors with intentional renewal leaves for reflection, creativity, and revitalization in ministry.
Key Information: All dates are projected; the next official RFP will be released in November 2026.
Description
The Lilly Endowment Clergy Renewal Programs, administered by Christian Theological Seminary, are designed to strengthen Christian congregations by enabling their pastors to step away from regular parish responsibilities for a period of renewal and reflection. These competitive grants allow congregations and pastors to collaboratively plan purposeful renewal leaves that foster exploration, creativity, and rejuvenation in ministry. Each renewal leave is unique, shaped by the needs and aspirations of the participating pastor and congregation, and is meant to promote both personal and congregational vitality. The programs support a wide range of activities, from travel and study to rest and family time, with an emphasis on intentional activities that restore enthusiasm and creativity for ministry.
