If you are part of a congregation in a small town or rural community, this is an opportunity for you.
Applications are now being accepted for the 2020 Roanridge Trust Grant Awards. Dioceses, congregations and Episcopal Church related organizations and institutions are invited to apply.
Applications due December 13, 2019.
Offered annually, Roanridge Trust Grants are used for the “training of town and country ministry and rural Christian workers” of The Episcopal Church. They support creative models of leadership development and training of the laity and clergy in small towns and rural communities across The Episcopal Church. Awards generally range from $5,000 to $20,000.
These awards affirm the rich gifts and unique witness at work in rural communities. They are a key piece of the Jesus Movement in building leaders who sustain hope, health and creativity in often overlooked or under-resourced localities. Roanridge Trust Grant recipients annually represent the great potential, diversity, and Jesus-rooted resilience in rural communities and small towns.
More information, application and instructions are in English and Spanish here and here.
Although previous recipients are eligible to apply, and one renewal of a grant is permitted, priority is given to new applicants. Only one grant request per diocese should be submitted.
The Roanridge Trust was established by the Cochel family, who originally gave a working farm in Missouri called Roanridge to The Episcopal Church. Income from the Trust generates the grant funds.
Questions about the Roanridge Trust and the application process can be addressed to the Rev. Dr. Molly James, deputy executive officer of General Convention, mjames@episcopalchurch.org, or Mr. George Wing, winggeo@winglaw.com, chair of the Roanridge Trust Grant Review Committee.
[Note: While the following is part of the information provided about the grants, it does not apply to the Episcopal Diocese of Fort Worth, which pays its assessment in full.] Please note the following for dioceses of The Episcopal Church: Applicant understands that should its local diocese fail to pay its assessment in full or to apply for and receive a waiver, the diocese and the applicant shall be ineligible to receive grants or loans from the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society unless approved by Executive Council. In accordance with Canon I.4.6, (select the applicable response): The diocese pays its full assessment; The diocese has been granted a waiver for years (list); The diocese has made application for a waiver but has not been advised regarding a determination.