Fall 2026 Grant Focus: Clergy Development
Licensed Local Pastors Continuing Education & Spiritual Discernment Grant
Application Opens September 1, 2026
Application Closes October 15, 2026
The number of part-time Licensed Local Pastors (LLPs) serving in West Ohio is growing. The cost of obtaining a license can be an impediment when the full cost is born by the candidate. Many LLPs need additional training and coaching but find that the cost of these resources put them out of reach. These small grants are intended to reduce the financial barrier for LLPs seeking to complete Course of Study or obtain other training or coaching for effective ministry.
• Purpose: To contribute to stronger pastoral leadership, spiritual vitality, and long-term ministry sustainability for LLPs. The grants aim to provide financial assistance to LLP’s who are working to complete their Course of Study requirements and/or other continued education or specialized training that will enhance their ministry effectiveness. Funding can be utilized by LLP’s for spiritual discernment and coaching support for vocational guidance, or ministry development.
• Eligibility: West Ohio LLP’s currently serving in an appointment within the local church, who are working on completing their course of study requirements or who are pursuing other continuing education, including workshops, seminars, or certificate programs. Training/continued education should focus on pastoral care, preaching, worship leadership, counseling or community engagement. LLP’s can also utilize these funds for covering the cost of professional coaching sessions (a list of coaches will be provided by the Office of Ministry and Episcopal Office.)
• Grant Range: $850-$3500
• Requirements and Evaluation Criteria: Applications must include the following: potential for impact on personal well-being and ministry effectiveness, and anticipated budget. Clarity and feasibility of the proposed plan must be evident. Applicants must agree to submit a report on outcomes of the grant within 12 months.
Contact Maddy DeWitt at 380-223-9229 or mdewitt@wocumc.org for more information. Please see below for the link to the application.
LLP Continuing Education & Spiritual Discernment Grant Application Link - Opens Sept. 1st: LLP Continuing Education & Spiritual Discernment Grant | West Ohio Conference of The United Methodist Church
View our grant program guidelines below for more details. You can open the guidelines in a new tab by hovering over the box with an arrow in the top right corner and clicking "Pop out." You can also learn more about our 2026 grant program by clicking here: https://www.westohioumc.org/2026-united-methodist-foundation-west-ohio-grants.