Michigan United Methodist churches impacted by disaffiliation can apply for grants of up to $5K to begin a new mission or ministry in their communities.

As an introduction to this year’s Michigan Annual Conference, Bishop David Bard said, “It is time to boldly turn a page and welcome exciting new chapters in our conference journey. A return to the critical missional and ministry needs of the world that surround us. A time to ask how Christ is working in us to be open, innovative, creative, disciplined, and faithful in how we go about creating new and energizing disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.”

During our time together as an annual conference, we learned about the ways that faith communities are engaged in mission and ministry inside and outside our gathering places. From Advocacy Day to basketball games to becoming a performing arts center, we learned about new ways that our churches are engaged and invested in their neighborhoods.

Is your church exploring new ways to be a part of the greater community? Have you explored the Fresh Expressions program? Do you have a new ministry launch you are considering? Or have you discovered from the MissionInsite review that your church has opportunities to build a new bridge and create a new connection in the community?

As we fearlessly seek to create opportunities for mission and ministry in the Michigan Conference, the Appointive Cabinet is introducing Growing Forward Grants. These grants, funded through the Disaffiliation Transition Cost Fund, are an opportunity for faith communities impacted by the disaffiliation process to begin a new mission. The award amount is up to $5,000. If your faith community has a new idea for a mission or ministry, please consider applying for one of these grants.

For more information and to determine if a mission or ministry is eligible, please contact your district superintendent. Click the button below to find information for each district.

Last Updated on August 5, 2024