Clergy Development

What is Clergy Development?

The Board of Ordained Ministry is tasked by The Book of Discipline to provide support services for those in ministerial leadership in the areas of development, continuing education, formation in servant leadership and continuing spiritual growth in Christ (paragraph 635.o).

Continuing Education Funds

Continuing Education funds are provided through local churches’ contributions to the Ministerial Education Fund apportionment. Clergy members can apply annually (July 1 to July 1) for funds. A minimum of 0.5 C. E. U. or its equivalent must be available from the event, pilgrimage, DMin class, etc. in order for clergy to be eligible to receive these funds.

There are two tiers of funding: $200 (if you make more than $50,000 a year) or $400 (if you make less than $50,000 a year).

To apply click here

Clergy Development Grants

Clergy Development Grants are funds for clergy pursuing continued development in their ministry setting. These grants can be used to fund the following: 1. Coaching, 2. Spiritual Direction, 3. Continuing Education beyond what is available through CEU funds. This grant does not support degrees, certification beyond seminary, pilgrimages, or UMVIM grants.

To complete the application, you will need:

• a statement of learning goals
• letter of recommendation from S/PPRC Chair (or immediate supervisor if serving in extension ministry)
• letter of recommendation from District Superintendent
• information regarding the learning opportunity, coach, or spiritual director

The deadline to request funds is: January 1, April 1, July 1, and October 1.