CONGREGATIONAL VITALITY
The diocese is deeply committed to nurturing and supporting congregations as they do the important work of offering individuals a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ. Here you will find resources to help your congregation thrive.
Tending Our Soil
The Tending Our Soil thriving congregations initiative (pdf) seeks to cultivate the changed soil of our congregations so that God’s love might grow in our time and place. The initiative will engage up to 36 congregations over five years. The final 12 congregations will begin their three-year journey in the Fall 2023. Applications for the 2023 cohort are now open. Email the Rev. Anne-Marie Jeffrey if you are interested in exploring this initiative for your congregation. Learn More
Congregational Revitalization
The Diocese of Washington is working to implement a church revitalization strategy that leads to healthy, thriving congregations throughout the diocese, reversing the trends of decline. Resources such as the Seven Vital Signs of Parish Health, the Unstuck Group master classes and MissionInsite reports on community demographics can help you discover ways to examine your congregation at different levels, highlight opportunities for growth and discern your next steps whether they be new ministries or revamping old ones. Learn More
Congregational Renewal and Care
While it is important at all times for parish leaders to see to a congregation’s health and well-being, it is also true that there are seasons in the life of a parish when more intentional care may be needed. Your diocesan staff has developed a variety of tools and processes intended to assist and equip parish leaders in doing the work God is calling them to do that can be tailored to the specific needs and mission objectives of a congregation. Learn More
Congregational Growth Grants
The diocese offers grants of $3,000 to $20,000 to support initiatives that foster collaborative parish partnerships in evangelism, worship, mission and justice work with underserved communities within the diocese. Learn More
Clergy and Parish Transitions
The process of calling a new clergy is one of mutual discernment for the vestry, search team, and candidates in partnership with the bishop. The bishop and her staff assist and accompany congregations throughout this process. Learn More
