Episcopal Evangelism Grants available

Episcopal institutions can now apply for the next round of the Episcopal Evangelism Grants Program, designed to fund local and regional evangelism efforts in the Episcopal Church. The application deadline is November 15. The new grant cycle will focus on projects that explore new methods of evangelism during the COVID-19 pandemic. Click here for information and application.

Grants available for young adult and campus ministry

The Episcopal Church announces its 2021 grants program for Young Adult and Campus Ministries currently engaged in or seeking new relationships with young adults on or off college campuses. Episcopal ministries or ecumenical ministries with an Episcopal presence are invited to apply; an informational webinar is scheduled for October 1 at 3 p.m.; register here. Grant information and application is available here.   

New digital Advent and worship resources from Episcopal Relief & Development

Episcopal Relief & Development is celebrating one year of ONE THOUSAND DAYS OF LOVE by debuting new digital Advent and worship resources, as well as other toolkits for churches and supporters to use together or individually. ONE THOUSAND DAYS OF LOVE is a three year, $3 million grassroots Church-wide fundraising campaign dedicated to expanding the organization's global programs improving the lives of children up to age six. Click here for more information and to access new resources.   

Walking with Asylum Seekers: Training series for congregations

In the month of October, join Episcopal Migration Ministries, in partnership with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA) and Lutheran Family Services of the Rocky Mountains (LFSRM), for a three-part training series for congregations interested in supporting and walking alongside asylum seekers. The three 90-minute virtual events will provide advocacy updates, resources for group discernment, ministry models, and important considerations when engaging in ministry with asylum seekers. The series begins October 8. Click here for more information and registration.  

New congregational vitality tool from Episcopal Church Foundation and The FaithX Project

Episcopal Church Foundation has teamed with The FaithX Project have launched the new Congregational Vitality Assessment tool. It is designed to provide congregations with an assessment of its Vitality (how healthy it is) and its Sustainability (whether it has the people, financial, and contextual resources necessary to survive). It can be completed by a single congregational leader or a group (leadership group or the entire congregation). Click here for more information. 

129th Annual Council to be held virtually

After consultation with the Executive Board, the Standing Committee and the Chancellors of the Diocese of Southern Virginia, we are hereby announcing that the 129th Annual Council of the Diocese of Southern Virginia will be held Saturday, February 27, 2021 VIRTUALLY. Information will be forthcoming about this day-long council and how it will be made possible electronically.
 

What Did Jesus Do? A Word to the Church from Presiding Bishop Michael Curry

"This November, the people of the United States will elect a president and many others to public office. This election occurs in a time of global pandemic, a time when there is hardship, sickness, suffering and death. But this election also occurs in a time of great divisions. Divisions that are deep, dangerous, and potentially injurious to democracy. So what is the role of the church in the context of an election being held in a time such as this? What is our role as individual followers of Jesus Christ committed to his way of love in such a time as this?" 

Click here to continuing reading or watch video of Bishop Curry's sermon.