Purpose
The Church is present and true when it witnesses Christ’s saving death and resurrection in the community and the world. Resurrection brings forth new life and wholeness. The Presbytery of Chicago is a faithful witness to the resurrection when supporting congregations seeking to cultivate new life by preparing soil, nurturing seeds, and producing the fruit of love, healing, connection, and growth in their congregation and community.
The 21st Century Fund is supported by dissolved congregations that understood their life and mission have ended. These congregations closed, knowing their assets would be invested into resurrecting life for New Worshipping Communities, church renewal, and church redevelopment projects. The Resurrection Cultivation Grant Application is the pathway for access to these funds.
Definitions of Redevelopment and Revitalization
Church Redevelopment refers to a partial change of use of church building space while not ceasing to function as a place of worship, mission, and ministry. Redevelopment will almost inevitably involve new partnerships with non-church operators, developers, and investors. Some examples are the cost of a consultant to help and organize the church to meet with community leaders to determine new uses for an old education building.
Church Revitalization
Church revitalization is a project or program that helps shepherd a church to health and vitality. This includes restoring the church’s purpose where the Word of God is truly preached and heard, the Sacraments are rightly administered, and ecclesiastical discipline is uprightly ministered.
Revitalization is a season of prayerful discernment and hope, trusting in God’s power to bring new life where it is needed. It often includes renewing existing ministries, strengthening leadership, and listening for how the Spirit is calling a congregation to embody Christ’s mission in its present context. In some cases, this journey may lead to reorganizing or forming a partnership with another congregation through a merger, yoke, or absorption. Congregations may also engage consultants to walk alongside the session and congregation, offering guidance and support as they seek clarity, courage, and a faithful path forward in their witness to the community.
The Redevelopment or Revitalization grant cannot be applied to:
- Rehab or renovation projects for the benefit of the congregation
- Personnel, staffing, or employees hired by the congregation
