The Mentoring Group (MG) Program offers pastors an opportunity to delve into a specific ministry transition—exploring transition, second call, or later career—while supporting, caring for, and encouraging one another. Grants of up to $5,000 (USD) funds group activities.
Pastors are free to plan almost all aspects of their time together: who the group members will be, who the group facilitator will be, which of the three transitions they’ll pursue, when to meet, what books they’ll read, if they’ll attend a conference, and what the required retreat will look like. Since groups will create their own plan, no two groups will be alike. The groups will be made up of four to six pastors (plus a facilitator) who desire to gather together to learn from each other while fostering wellbeing in their ministry, lives, and relationships.
All active, CRC parish pastors who fit into one of the three ministry transitions are eligible to form a group and apply for a grant. There are some requirements that need to be met. For all the details have a look at the Overview of Mentoring Groups Program.
The maximum grant awarded is $5,000 (USD). Additional funds are paid to the facilitator. Groups may request one grant between May 2019 and November 2024.
Applications are accepted at any time. Be sure to read the "Plug & Play" Guide to Mentoring Groups as you work on your application. Groups are strongly encouraged to connect with our office for some wisdom and helpful tips that will make the proposal writing easier for you. We’re eager to work with you as you put your proposal together! Here's a completed, sample proposal.
Grants are announced within six weeks of receiving a completed application. Mentoring group expenses incurred before the grants are announced are not covered by the grant funds.
Pastor Church Resources will help answer your questions about forming a mentoring group. Don't hesitate to contact us.