Background:
This grant was given to the Pacifica Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) by Cathryn Wright in 2003. Ms. Wright intended the grant to be used for “caring lay ministry.” The original task force recommended that the mission statement specify that these monies entrusted to the Pacifica Synod of the ELCA be used in the identification, recruitment, and equipping of persons for caring lay ministry.
The original mission statement of Cathryn Wright Trust Fund Task Force (01/27/2003):
The task force recommends that the mission statement indicate that these monies entrusted to the Pacifica Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America be used in the identification, recruitment, and equipping of persons for caring lay persons ministry…
Purpose:
We invite Pacifica Synod ministries and congregations and lay (non-rostered) individuals to explore opportunities for “caring lay ministry.” Examples include but are not limited to:
● Stephen Ministry Training – www.stephenministries.org
● Excellence in Leadership – https://www.rmselca.org/excellence-in-leadership
● Growing in Faith – The Diakonia Program – https://www.diakoniausa.org/
● Parish Nursing Program – https://www.elpna.org/
● Thriving Leadership Formation – https://thrivingleadershipformation.org/
● ELCA Coach Training – https://www.elcacoaching.org
● Training to become a Spiritual Director
● Synod workshops and events
● Other training opportunities around anti-racism, the Enneagram…your ideas!
Process:
● Complete the application.
● Attach a one-page summary of your proposal.
● Submit written approval of a rostered leader (Pastor or Deacon) in Pacifica Synod, or an explanation of why this is not attainable.
Applications will be reviewed by the Wright Fund Committee as received. The committee will then make recommendations to the Mission Funds Committee and Executive Committee for review and final approval. This process may take 8-12 weeks. Approval process may be expedited for synod and ELCA events and programs and Stephen Ministries.
Approved funding may involve reimbursement to the participant by check or direct payment to the program by check.
