Planting Grant applications now being accepted

The Orthodox Church in America’s Department of Evangelization recently announced that applications for 2013 Church Planting Grants are now being accepted.

Grant applications and a comprehensive list of requirements and expectations may be downloaded here.

A limited number of grants will be available for 2013, provided through the general funds of the OCA, in addition to the ongoing generosity of designated gifts offered for this purpose.  Due to limited funding, however, selection may be rather competitive.

Missions that received grants in 2012 must apply anew for the coming year.

“The department awards grants of up to $24,000.00 for first year recipients,” said Priest John Parker, Chair of the Department of Evangelization.  “The grant must be used specifically to assist in providing a salary for a full-time resident priest and must be matched by the qualifying mission, deanery, or diocese. Grants may be renewed for a maximum of three years.”

Nearly 30 missions have received Church Planting Grants since the program was initiated over 15 years ago. Most of these missions have successfully transitioned to full parish status.  Presently these grants assist parishes in Georgia, Louisiana, Kansas, and Arizona, and a grant is in process for the Archdiocese of Mexico.

Applications must be filled out completely and submitted to the department by September 15, 2012.  The grant application must be reviewed and approved by the diocesan bishop prior to submission. After a review the Department’s recommendations for qualified missions will be submitted at the fall session of the Holy Synod of Bishops for final approval. Grants begin on January 1, 2013.

For additional information, please contact Fr John Parker at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or by phone at 843-881-5010.