Church ministries work with individuals and organizations in the community. Some ministries help those in need, including the homeless. Church ministries also provide religious training for those who seek it. Financial funding for start-up ministries can be found through several church-affiliated programs that encourage the efforts and resources that ministries can provide.

Ministries to Support Low-Income Families

The Change for the Child grant is sponsored by the Holsten Conference. The fund supports United Methodist ministries that support low-income children who are up to 12 years old. The grant awards $5,000. New ministries are given priority over others for funding. Methodist ministries in Tennessee, Georgia and Virginia are eligible for this grant.

Campus Ministry Programs

The Oklahoma Conference awards grants to new ministries on the campuses of United Methodist affiliated colleges. The grant amount ranges from $1,000 to $16,000. Applicants must submit a business plan, a budget and the grant application. Preference is given to those starting their first ministry.

Health Ministry Grant

The Health Ministries Initiative through the ADENA awards grants to new ministries. To apply, new ministries must work with ADENA Health Foundation Community Benefit Office to devise a budget and plan for a health and wellness program. The ministry is responsible for one-third of the total expenses for the project. The foundation matches funds up to $500 and $1,000 in the first two years of the ministry.

International Baptist Church Ministries

New ministries are eligible for grants as members of the International Baptist Church. To apply, the ministry must submit an application package that includes a mission statement demonstrating achievements by the church, a budget for the up-coming year, how the ministry is organized and its bylaws. As a recipient of the grant, the ministry is required to report on how funding is being used and may be subject to inspections by the IBCM.