In 2018, the Center for Congregational Resources received a $1.5 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc., becoming one of 13 Innovation Hubs in the U.S. and Canada participating in the Called to Lives of Meaning and Purpose initiative. This funding launched the Life is Calling program, which has partnered with 45 churches and ministries across 15 faith traditions.
Through learning communities, monthly peer groups, and leadership team collaboration, congregations explored the intersection of Christian calling, meaning, and purpose. These efforts led to a wide range of local initiatives—from respite care programs to multigenerational retreats and tutoring partnerships. In total, the Center awarded $807,000 in congregational grants through Life is Calling.
For highlights of the learning and experiences from this initiative, enjoy the Life Is Calling anthem video.
In 2020, the Center for Congregational Resources received a $1 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. through its Thriving Congregations initiative, which supports churches in deepening relationships with God, strengthening community connections, and contributing to human flourishing.
The Center’s project, which concluded in 2025, supported two cohorts of Birmingham-area congregations through a multi-year learning process focused on renewing ministry vitality in changing cultural and social contexts. Churches engaged in workshops, seminars, peer groups, and worship experiences centered around mission clarity, community needs, and spiritual practices. In total, the Center partnered with over 30 congregations, awarding just over $500,000 in ministry programming grants.
The culmination of this work is encapsulated in a congregational workbook Journey Toward Thriving as a free resource for clergy and lay leaders.
For highlights of the learning and experiences from this initiative, enjoy the Thriving Congregations anthem video.
