Frequently Asked Questions

WILL THE SUSTAINING PASTORAL EXCELLENCE INITIATIVE PAY FOR A SABBATICAL?

The Sustaining Pastoral Excellence initiative is now offering grants of up to $1,000 for a sabbatical. The grant amount matches the amount offered by your church or ministry context (for a total of up to $2,000).

There are also other agencies, such as Lilly’s Pastoral Renewal program, that also fund sabbaticals for pastors.

CAN A GROUP OF PASTORS APPLY FOR A GRANT?

We are no longer providing group grants. All Covenant Clergy can apply for an individual Sustaining Pastoral Excellence grant.

DO THE GRANTS INCLUDE RESOURCES FOR SPOUSES OR LAY LEADERS?

Sustaining Pastoral Excellence is designed to enhance the growth and work of credentialed Covenant pastors. It does not include resources for spouses or lay leaders.

WILL SUSTAINING PASTORAL EXCELLENCE PAY FOR THE PURSUIT OF ADDITIONAL EDUCATION THROUGH A DEGREE PROGRAM?

The targets of SPE do not provide resources for degree or certificate programs.

HOW DOES THE GRANT APPLICATION PROCESS WORK?

The grant deadlines for self-selected interactions are ongoing. All Covenant-created opportunities have a posted registration deadline for a specific event. Applications for these interactions must be received by the stated deadline. A response will be given to all applicants within a 21-day period after the pre-designated deadline.

CAN YOU APPLY FOR MORE THAN ONE GRANT?

Pastors, missionaries, and chaplains may receive up to two grants through the SPE Initiative, with the provision that an individual’s second grant experience comes at least one calendar year after the first.