2026 NEW VENTURES IN COMMUNITY MINISTRIES
The Diocesan Outreach Endowment Fund was established as a result of the generosity of Missouri Episcopalians through pledges to the Making All Things New Capital Campaign. Its purpose is to challenge congregations to make a difference where they are and to improve the quality of life in and with their communities, as well as to identify pressing social needs and design strategies to meet those needs.
New Ventures in Community Ministries Grants are meant to support projects involving new ministries and new visions. These projects (which may include new aspects of existing programs, as well as entirely new projects) are to be doable, manageable, replicable, and sustainable by congregations. Consideration will be given to projects that serve people from particular populations (aged, children, youth), or those suffering from poverty, loneliness, or other similar needs.
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Diocesan Outreach Endowment Fund through the New Ventures in Community Ministries Grants is to inspire congregations to dare great things for God by developing new ministries and visions in response to changing social needs throughout the diocese.
The New Ventures in Community Ministries Grant Committee, established by the Diocesan Council, with the advice and consent of the Bishop and Diocesan Council, shall be responsible for the disposition of the income generated by the Diocesan Outreach Endowment Fund.
Timetable for Abstract and Formal Application Process
Week of June 16, 2025 -The Committee for New Ventures in Community Ministries Grant announces the process for applying for the grants. Application material is available from the Offices of the Bishop.
July 26, 2025 - Deadline for submitting Abstracts to the Committee, via the Offices of the Bishop.
August 12, 2025 - Notice of acceptance or regret regarding Abstracts. Congregations are notified whether or not they should proceed to Phase II of the grant application.
September 13, 2025 - Deadline for submitting Formal Application.
September 28, 2025 - Committee receives advice and consent of the Bishop and Diocesan Council.
Diocesan Convention 2025 - The Bishop will announce the grant awards. Committee notifies congregations that did not receive awards before the convention.
Mid-January, 2026 - Grant money is available mid-January and distributed upon request.
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