Details for the 2024-2025 Cycle

When does it begin? 

The first cycle of the Initiative will begin with the Alma Conference scheduled for June 5-10, 2024. 

 

How do I apply?

The application process will go live on March 1st and applications are due by April 15th. For at least the first two years of the Initiative, we will solicit recommendations from presbytery leaders, asking each presbytery to recommend at least three individuals to be part of the Initiative. Potential participants will be sent information to apply. Please have your Executive presbyter or pastor contact the program director if you wish to be invited to apply.

 

What Does it Cost?

The cost of the program is minimal: $250 dollars per participant and $1000 for their sponsoring church or presbytery. An installment plan (for the church fee) and limited scholarships are available. This $1250 charge covers all the costs to participants of the Initiative (the annual conference, cohort meetings, books, etc.). The total cost per participant of the experience, funded by this grant, is more than $10,000. 

 

Is the Cultivating the Gift of Preaching Initiative (CGPI) a CRE training program?

No, the Initiative is adjacent or complementary to CRE training. CREs (Commissioned Ruling Elders) are called to serve a particular faith community as their pastor. CREs are thus commissioned to not only preach, but to celebrate the sacraments, lead the session, provide pastoral care, and more. The aim of CGPI is to cultivate preachers who might serve in pulpit supply across a presbytery or who might preach regularly in a particular congregation.