The Episcopal Diocese of Washington is delighted to share some exciting news: we have been awarded one of the Lilly Endowment’s Thriving Congregations Initiative Scaling Grants. This extraordinary opportunity will allow us to expand the impact of our work in parish revitalization and more deeply embed a culture of vitality across the diocese.

The Scaling Grants are designed to support organizations that have developed strong Thriving Congregations programs and are ready to grow them—either by reaching new groups of congregations or by enhancing the experience of those already involved. Lilly will contribute $705,000 toward this effort, and the diocese will match those funds, creating a $1.4 million investment in the future of our congregations.

Over the past four years, Tending Our Soil (TOS) has taught us much about how congregations find motivation, sustain accountability, and create life-giving programming. We have celebrated great success with participating parishes—and we have also heard a clear call from others asking to join this work. This growing interest tells us that the vision of church vitality is resonating across the diocese and that congregations see true value in the resources TOS provides.

This Scaling Grant will enable us to refine, broaden, and strengthen our approach. The next phase of our revitalization efforts will:

• • Welcome more congregations through a shorter, more accessible process.
  • Provide mini-grants to help parishes fund their vitality initiatives.
  • Offer skill-building courses through the School for Christian Faith and Leadership, creating new “on-ramps” for learning and renewal.
  • Support returning congregations in deepening their work by focusing on the Vital Signs of Parish Health.

At the heart of this vision is our shared commitment to nurturing a culture of vitality—a way of life energized by joy, focused by purpose, sustained by the Holy Spirit, and anchored in the Vital Signs. These signs reflect the diverse ways thriving congregations embody their mission, shaped by their unique context and experience.

With gratitude for Lilly Endowment’s partnership, and with deep faith in the Spirit’s guidance, we look forward to this next chapter. Together, we will continue cultivating innovative, Spirit-filled ministries that help our congregations engage their communities, clarify their values, and embody the practices of Christian discipleship.