The United Methodist Foundation of Michigan launches a pilot application process for UMCOR Mustard Seed Migration Grants. Local churches in Michigan are encouraged to apply.
The United Methodist Foundation of Michigan is excited to announce that applications are now open for the Mustard Seed Migration Grant Program, a ministry initiative supported by the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR). Although this grant is offered nationwide through UMCOR, churches in the Michigan Conference should apply through the Foundation as part of this pilot to receive, review, and award grants locally.
“We are honored to serve as the Michigan Conference hub for this powerful ministry opportunity,” said Rev. Dr. David S. Bell, Foundation President and Executive Director. “These grants offer an entry point for congregations to deepen their compassion for the most vulnerable among us. These small acts of welcome can grow into transformative mission.”
Local United Methodist churches in the Michigan Conference are invited to apply for grants of up to $2,000 to spark community-based ministries and service projects focused on refugees and migrants in their communities. The program encourages congregations to live out the call to “welcome the stranger” by engaging directly with their local migrant and refugee neighbors through practical, compassionate ministry.
“As Jesus described in his parable, small mustard seeds have the potential to grow into something pervasive that spreads throughout a field,” said Roland Fernandes, General Secretary of Global Ministries and UMCOR. “Our hope is that, by learning more about migrants in local communities and addressing their needs through these Mustard Seed Migration Grants, the ‘seed’ of welcoming strangers will be planted in new ways in congregations around the country.”
Projects must be locally based, led by the congregation, and completed within six months. They should address a specific need in the local community and engage the congregation in implementation. The program’s goal is to support creative outreach that builds relationships, meets tangible needs, and fosters long-term compassion and understanding. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling first-come, first-served basis. Church leaders are encouraged to submit their application as soon as possible.
“We celebrate this opportunity for Michigan’s United Methodist congregations to embody Christ’s call to welcome the stranger,” David Bell added. “This grant not only supports service but invites deep relationship and shared learning between churches and their neighbors.”
For full application materials and details, visit the United Methodist Foundation of Michigan’s website or contact the Foundation at 888-451-1929 or [email protected].
The publication of this article was made possible thanks to generous financial gifts from local United Methodist churches in Michigan through Ministry Shares. Thank you! Learn about the impact of Ministry Shares on mission and ministry in Michigan and around the world.
Last Updated on February 24, 2026