Summary of the Initiative

– Purpose: Provide financial assistance for pastoral education, coaching and mentoring from experienced pastors, and leadership training for lay leaders to reduce pastoral vacancies and strengthen local church health and long-term pastoral stability.

– Components:

1. Grant/Loan Educational Assistance: Up to $10,000 per year (or more at council direction) for up to four years, with a loan-to-grant conversion tied to years of faithful service in a CARBC church.
2. Pastoral Coaching & Mentoring: One-on-one mentoring relationships with experienced or retired pastors, structured expectations for regular contact and formation.
3. Leadership Training for Lay Leaders: Regional retreats, training modules, and ministry skill development to reinforce church capacity and support incoming pastors.

– Oversight: The program will be administered by the CARBC Council with a Scholarship Committee (state representative, three appointed CARBC council members, and two additional CARBC church appointees) to review applications, approve educational plans, and monitor progress.