Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
NORTH MANCHESTER – Manchester University's Peace Studies Institute has received a $375,000 grant from the Faith in Rural Communities initiative of the NC Rural Center to coach 25 rural churches in asset-based community development over the next three years, serving congregations across the region.
Manchester is the only university to receive this competitive grant, which will be directed by Manchester's peace studies and religious studies programs, according to a news release from Manchester University.
Through the Connect Church program, Manchester will help churches identify and mobilize their existing strengths to build stronger relationships, address local challenges and contribute to the vitality of their communities. Participating congregations will meet regularly with Connect Church coaches to inventory assets, learn about community needs and design projects that create lasting impact.
An element of Manchester's proposal involves training students as coaches, providing paid experiential education opportunities. Student coaches also gain valuable experience working with religious organizations on issues important to their communities.
"Connect Church is rooted in the belief that rural congregations already possess the gifts and relationships needed to make a lasting difference in their communities," said Darren Crotts, senior program director of Faith in Rural Communities. "By focusing on the assets within a congregation and the opportunities around them, churches can become catalysts for meaningful and sustainable change."
"At Manchester, our tradition of peacebuilding is not separate from faith - it is deeply rooted in it. This grant recognizes the powerful partnership between our peace studies and religious studies programs, where theological reflection and social transformation come together to serve our region," said Dr. Katy Gray Brown, professor of philosophy and peace studies and director of the Peace Studies Institute. "This initiative reflects the heart of Manchester's mission: bringing together education and faith to improve the human condition."
Manchester University is one of four organizations selected nationwide to serve as a regional hub for the expansion of Connect Church, alongside hub partners in Missouri, Montana and South Carolina. As a hub partner, Manchester will provide coaching, training and support to participating churches in Indiana.
The expansion of Connect Church is funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. through its Ministry in Rural Areas and Small Towns Initiative. Faith in Rural Communities staff will support hub partners in adapting the program to their regions, helping rural churches across the country foster meaningful, sustainable ministries.
