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Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Sustaining Pastoral Excellence initiative pay for a sabbatical?

The Sustaining Pastoral Excellence initiative does not have the resources to underwrite a sabbatical. There are other agencies, such as Lilly’s Pastoral Renewal program, that do fund sabbaticals for pastors. However, it is possible that a segment of a person’s sabbatical could qualify for funding from SPE. The segment must fall within the funding parameters established by the initiative.

Can a group of pastors apply for a grant?

Yes, groups of pastors can apply for a grant for group spiritual direction, the learning areas identified in the competency areas – as well as for retreats. Each pastor in the group will be required to fill out an application. The applications must be turned in together, with any additional supporting information sent with the applications. A cover letter must accompany the applications identifying this as an application for a group grant. The group will need to choose a lead contact person so that communication links are clear.

Do the grants include resources for spouses or lay leaders?

The initiative is designed to enhance the growth and work of Covenant pastors.  It does not include resources for spouses or lay leaders.

What is the application process for the Center for Spiritual Direction at North Park Theological Seminary?

Grant applications for all elements of this initiative, including NPTS Center for Spiritual Direction, can be found on this web site.  You may also contact the Department of the Ordered Ministry or North Park Theological Seminary and request that an application packet be sent to you.

Will SPE pay for the pursuit of additional education through a degree program?

The targets of SPE do not provide resources for degree or certificate programs.  The exception is North Park Theological Seminary's Center for Spiritual Direction.

How does the grant application process work?

The grant deadlines for for self-selected interactions are  February 15, April 1, June 1, August 1, October 1, December 1.

All Covenant created opportunites have a posted registration deadline for a specific event.  Applications for these interactions must be received by the stated deadline.

A response will be given to all applicants within a 21 day period after the pre-designated deadline.

Someone applying to the Center for Spiritual Direction will need to apply thorugh the regular admissions channel at North Park.  However, if a pastor/missionary/chaplain is desiring to apply for SPE grant funds to offset the cost of tuition, tht must be done through the SPE website. 

For additional information see “application process”.

Can you apply for more than one grant?

Normal funding for Sustaining Pastoral Excellence allows for one grant. However, there are instances in which individuals or groups may be eligible for an additional grant.

In early 2008, the Executive Committee of the Ministerium voted to allow pastors, missionaries, and chaplains to apply for second grants through the SPE intiative, with the provision that an individual's second grant experience comes at least one (1) calendar year after the first.

How are grant funds received?

Grant recipients will be reimbursed up to the specified grant amount when the receipts and response/evaluation sheets are turned in. Only receipts that accompany the evaluation sheets will be reimbursed, and only one check will be sent for reimbursement. Additional receipts turned in at a later time will not be paid.

An exception to this is made for grants given in the Character stream for ongoing spiritual direction. For information on this exception please contact the SPE office.