Every parish is welcome to apply for funding in all five key areas. We grant to programs that fall under the specific sub-categories listed.
Before starting your application, please read the category descriptions carefully. The examples are meant to provide ideas for the types of programs/resources that grant money can fund – they are not exhaustive lists.
Collaborative Projects
When multiple communities come together, the impact of a single program is multiplied. Additional funding may be awarded for programs where multiple parishes are working together and combining resources for a program. If you are partnering with other parishes, please provide as many details as possible in the appropriate section of the application.
This process replaces the Spring Grant Cycle. There are significant changes to the process and guidelines, so please read the information carefully before submitting an application.
Additional Information
Questions?
If you have questions about if a program/idea fits in a particular category or about the application in general, please reach out to our Grants Program Manager
Family Ministry
Parents & Support
Description
Families are the heartbeat of both our community and the Church. We understand the vital role families play in our spiritual lives. Today’s families face numerous challenges due to the busyness of modern life and the vast influence of secular culture. In response, family ministry provides tools, guidance, and resources to help families thrive spiritually and emotionally. Grants from this category will fund programs for marriage prep and infant baptism and beyond, expanding family ministry to include marriage support and Christian parenting insights. These ministries are important to families’ spiritual and other needs, embracing families where they are in their faith journey.
Examples
- Parish-wide activities, retreats, & speakers that focus on families growing in faith together
- Financial assistance to help families attend the “Holy Family Camp” retreat
- Speakers on the topics of family life and the domestic Church
- Resources (books, online resources, materials) that the parish makes available for families to enhance the “Domestic Church”
- Resources/initiatives to help families learn how to pray together
- “Reclaim” resources for sexual health
- Natural Family Planning resources
Formation
Prayer, Initiation, Spiritual Growth, & Education
Description
The goal of grants in this category is to invigorate the formation of missionary disciples. Faith formation should serve all ages, equipping people to respond to each phase of life in light of the Gospel. Programs in this category will strive to foster and empower our parish communities to learn about, discern, and fully embody their baptismal identity and vocation. Formation enriches growth in one’s prayer life, strengthens one’s personal relationship with the Lord, and deepens one’s understanding of the Church’s teachings. This category aims to develop more missionary disciples, who after a transformational encounter with Jesus, let His teachings transform their lives.
Examples
- RCIA ministry and training
- Single or multi-parish retreats for parishioners
- Small faith groups
- Faith formation programs including sacramental preparation
- Teaching prayer toolkit
Music
Description
Music provides a reverent and joyful worship experiences that deepens our connection with Christ and his people. Joyful, engaging music lifts the spirits of the faithful. Grants in this category help parishes put their best efforts into helping the People of God experience the presence of Christ in Word and Sacrament through music.
Examples
- Workshops for choirs and musicians
- Updating music books and equipment
- Training for cantors
- Resources for adult and children’s choirs
Worship
Welcoming & Eucharist
Description
As the primary way most people experience the Church, Masses should deepen our connection with Christ and his people. True communion with God and with each other demands that we put our best efforts into helping the People of God experience the presence of Christ in Word and Sacrament. This includes fostering a welcoming worship environment and increasing the understanding and appreciation for the Mass.
Examples
- “Understanding the Mass” toolkit
- Talks or workshops to increase understanding of the Catholic Mass
- Trainings on how to make people feel welcome when they come to Mass
- Resources for worship spaces
- Prayer books
Youth and Young Adults
Engagement & Training
Description
Grants in this category focus on the needs of youth (ages 11-18) and young adults (ages 18-35). These young people are not just the future; they’re the energetic present of our Church, ready to spread Jesus’s message of love and hope. Programs in this category strive to walk with young people as they develop their relationship with Jesus Christ, discover that God does have a plan for them, and experience the deep joy and peace that are found in embracing His plan.
Examples
- Retreats (single or multi-parish)
- Conferences
- Service opportunities
- Social activities and pilgrimages
- Faith formation programs
- Leadership programs for young adult ministers
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If the above button does not work, copy and paste this URL: https://cfoscc.spectrumportal.net/accounts/signin