Applications open for national development grants

(LCMS/Erik M. Lunsford)

The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s (LCMS) Office of National Mission (ONM) offers national development grants to aid LCMS congregations, Recognized Service Organizations (RSO) and districts to make known the love of Christ in word and deed within their churches and communities.

National development grants are awarded on an annual basis. For this year’s cycle, applications will be accepted between June 1 and Aug. 1, with awards announced in October. The ONM encourages innovative proposals that others can use to advance the national mission work of the LCMS.

Deaconess Maryann Hayter, LCMS manager of grants administration, said, “We’re on God’s mission here — wherever ‘here’ is for you. The national development grant program encourages congregations, RSOs and districts to be creative and local. Consider your church and community, and design a project that aligns with one of the Synod’s seven mission priorities. Then make the love of Christ known in your own unique way.”

The national development grant process includes three steps: planning, applying for and reporting on the grant. Detailed instructions for each phase of the process, a list of commonly asked questions and the grant application can be found at the grant webpage. Grants are awarded in amounts ranging from $1,000 to $20,000.

The national development grant program is supplemented by funds from the Wiebe Mission Advancement Fund. Under the custodianship of the LCMS Foundation, the gift of John and Harriet Wiebe continues to have an immediate impact in the kingdom of God, even years after the Lord called them home. The LCMS gives thanks for the Wiebes and for their example of generosity, foresight and love for the Lord.

For more information, or to ask questions about national development grants, contact grants@lcms.org or call 888-THE LCMS.

Posted June 3, 2024