As College students enter a new context and self-differentiate from their childhood identity, many are prone to "lose" or stray from their faith and spiritual lives. Others have not had a chance to explore spiritual practices, expressions of faith, or particular traditions.

The Episcopal Church is well equipped to spread the Gospel: that God loves you, no exceptions. Studies have also shown that college students are attracted to the theological tenants and worship experiences the Episcopal Church has to offer. This grant will provide funding for parishes to explore and experiment in unique opportunities to enter boldly and generously into the lives of their college-aged neighbors.

The last year has certainly accentuated the challenges college students experience: risks of loneliness, depression, and suicide, in addition to developmentally-appropriate exploration of their identity, beliefs, and faith. Covid-19 has upended the best made plans, relationships, and strategies: We understand that you do not know the future of how your campus will be affected by the ongoing pandemic, or what your ministry might look like. Therefore we will accept grants on a rolling, first-come-first-served basis through December 1.  We encourage initiatives and ideas that will continue to spread the Gospel amidst the unknown and in an unprecedented context, and are always available for conversation, brainstorming and support!

Criteria for College Ministry Grant:

Such ministries will meet the following criteria:

• Such ministries will be considered a ministry of the whole parish and the vestry is required to indicate that in a letter with the application.
• During "normal" time, parishes that receive grants to support ministry towards students attending a traditional four-year college will understand that effective college ministry requires some ongoing level of presence on the campus itself, and not just inviting college students to come to the church building for events, meals, or worship. The effects of Covid-19 obviously requires common sense and discernment in how to achieve this criteria.
• Parishes that receive grants for College Ministry will have or will be proposing, ministries that involve measurable volunteer involvement by adult members of the parish. Funds may not be exclusively used for hiring someone to do your college ministry on behalf of the parish.
• The total amount of a College Ministry grant will normally exceed 50% of the parish's own financial contribution to the ministry. In special circumstances, this criteria may be altered

The Office for Congregations and Christian Formation is glad to answer any questions about eligibility and the grant process. Please email us at bpurdom@dohio.org or asutterisch@dohio.org or ataylor@dohio.org.