The Archdiocese of Chicago, the University of Saint Mary of the Lake in Mundelein, and St. Clement Parish in Chicago have each been awarded a $1.25 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to support projects under the Thriving Congregations Initiative. The initiative aims to facilitate the flourishing of congregations by strengthening their connection with God, fostering relationships within the community, and enhancing their impact on society.

Betsy Bohlen, the chief operating officer of the Archdiocese of Chicago, expressed gratitude for the grants, emphasizing the significance of the programs funded by Lilly Endowment. She stated, “I am thankful to Lilly Endowment for not one but three grants to fund programs for the Archdiocese of Chicago that will create opportunities for renewal, growth in discipleship and ultimately an encounter with the Living Christ.”

The grants will be utilized for specific programs within each organization. The Archdiocese of Chicago will implement the Co-Implementation Model, focusing on parish renewal and outreach to individuals less engaged in faith. The University of Saint Mary of the Lake will enhance its School of Parish Leadership and Evangelization to better equip lay leaders for multi-cultural ministry. St. Clement Parish will establish the Young Adult Engagement Pathway to cultivate young leaders and promote spiritual growth.

Christopher L. Coble, the vice president for religion at Lilly Endowment, highlighted the importance of congregations in nurturing faith and community vitality. He stated, “Congregations play an essential role in deepening the faith of individuals and contributing to the vitality of communities. We hope that these programs will nurture the vibrancy and spark the creativity of congregations, helping them imagine new ways to share God’s love in their communities and across the globe.”

The Thriving Congregations Initiative aims to support organizations that assist congregations in adapting to changing social and cultural landscapes, clarifying their mission, and strengthening their ministries. By addressing diverse trends affecting faith communities, such as increasing diversity, religious disaffiliation among youth, and the use of digital media, the initiative seeks to empower congregations to innovate and better serve their communities.

For more information about the Thriving Congregations Initiative and a list of grant recipients, visit the Lilly Endowment website.