Since 2008, CDT’s purpose has been rooted in a mandate known as “All Things New.” Clearly, many things have changed in our church and world since 2008; thus, CDT seeks to more fully understand its unique calling at this point in our VAUMC story. CDT believes that its next faithful step involves pausing and listening to persons throughout the VAUMC connection, persons in our communities and, most importantly, the Holy Spirit.
This season of intentional listening and discernment will begin on April 1, 2025.
After March 1, 2025, CDT will not receive any new grant applications until this season of listening and discernment has been concluded. CDT will honor all preexisting grant and financial commitments as we engage in this season of listening and discernment.
While we are not sure what the Holy Spirit may reveal during this upcoming season, we trust that we will be called toward the holy task of supporting those who are passionate about creating new communities for new people, all for Jesus, and for the transformation of the world.
If you have any questions about this season of listening and discernment, please contact Stephanie Kimec Parker, CDT Chairperson, or Amanda Miller Garber, the VAUMC Church Developer and Conference staff support for CDT.
The mission of the Church Development Team (CDT) is two-fold: to assist in creating New Faith Communities and to support the work of vitality in existing churches. The CDT works to achieve this mission through the following areas:
Currently, leadership grants include support of Next Level Innovations as well as local church initiatives to increase the Church’s outreach to the unchurched and dechurched.
In support of the CDT mission, the team accepts applications for New Faith Communities and Leadership Grants four times each year. Applications are due March 1. New Faith Community and Leadership Applications should be submitted to Amanda Garber, Conference Director of Missional and Community Engagement, amandagarber@vaumc.org.
For additional information or questions, please contact Amanda Garber, amandagarber@vaumc.org or Stephanie Kimec-Parker, stephaniekimecparker@vaumc.org.
Fresh Expressions Grant
The Virginia Annual Conference Church Development Team has established a grant to support local churches in their endeavor of starting a Fresh Expressions Initiative. Please fill out the form and allow us to assist you in this process.
What is Fresh Expressions?