An 8-month program, beginning in March, that will deliver deep and holistic financial training for clergy. This program will be limited to 20 appointed United Methodist clergy in Kansas to provide greater depth and establish meaningful, long-lasting connections.
Participants will be provided with resources and training to become more financially healthy in their family life and with their leadership in their church. This program will bring clergy together from different churches across Kansas to talk about stewardship in the church and provide them with resources and information valuable to God’s house and their house.
The Clergy Financial Wellness Initiative will encompass a two-part program over a duration of 8-months: Cokesbury’s Saving Grace curriculum for two months, and the Generous Church Leadership curriculum in coordination with Discipleship Ministries for six months.
There is no financial cost to participants. This program is partially funded by a grant to the General Board of Pension and Health Benefits of the UMC by the Lilly Endowment, Inc. for their national initiative. The remainder will come from an investment of the Foundation in our local pastors.
The purpose of this program is to strengthen financial wellness and leadership of our clergy, so that they may be financially strong and lead well in their ministry context. Additionally, the Foundation seeks to build greater relationships with our clergy and churches, growing our ministry and impact across Kansas.
Upon successful completion of the 8-month program, participants will earn 2.0 continuing education units (CEU’s).
1) Active participation for each session throughout the 8-month program is required. In addition to active participation and engagement, reading the materials is also necessary for program success.
2) Reliable internet access is required in order to successfully participate.
3) Participants will be asked to develop a money autobiography and comprehensive plan for their own financial well-being during the Generous Church Leadership portion of the course. This information will remain anonymous and will be used as a tool to help the clergy reflect on finances and actions that can be taken forward base on the material they are learning.
4) Following the completion of the 8-month program, the KAUMF will host a celebration gathering for all participants and their significant others. This will include a meal, celebrating their learning journey and new found freedom and hope. Each participant will be recognized with a certificate of completion noting their 2.0 CEU's for both curriculum.
5) After the course is completed, the participant will complete an evaluation form.
Click here to view the syllabus and schedule.
Applications will be accepted until February 19.
If you have questions or seek additional information about the Clergy Financial Wellness Program, please contact Dr. Sarah Diamond, KAUMF Director of Legacy Giving at sdiamond@kaumf.org.
