Applications available for 2010 Church Planting Grants
The Orthodox Church in America’s Department of Evangelization is pleased to announce that applications for 2010 Church Planting Grants are now being accepted.
“Each year the department awards grants to qualified OCA missions across North America,” according to the Very Rev. Marcus C Burch, who chairs the Department of Evangelization. “The grants are for up to 20,000.00 per year for first year recipients and can be renewed for up to a total of three years. Grants must be specifically used to aid in providing a salary for a full-time resident priest and must be matched by the same amount by the qualifying mission.”
Nearly 30 missions have received Church Planting Grants since the grant program was initiated over 15 years ago. Most of these missions have successfully transitioned to full parish status.
Each year missions that are presently on the grant must apply anew for continuance of their grant. Sent to missions monthly, the grants enable mission priests to devote their full energies to growing their respective communities into parishes.
Applications and a list of requirements for the grant can be found on the OCA website here. Applications must be filled out completely and submitted to the department by September 15, 2009. The grant application must be reviewed and approved by the diocesan bishop prior to submission. After a review and visit by a member of the department, 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, 2010. Missions currently receiving grants must reapply for ongoing assistance.
Questions and concerns should be directed to Father Marcus by calling (864) 299-1140, by sending an e-mail to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address), or by writing to the OCA Chancery, PO Box 675, Syosset, NY, 11791.