Celebrating Black Scholarship in The United Church of Canada
Through the generosity of United Church people, communities of faith, theological schools, General Council, and more, The United Church of Canada Foundation and The Black Clergy Network are pleased to announce the Black Clergy Network Scholarship program.
A Commitment to Change
To mark the end of the first Decade for People of African Descent and the commitment of The United Church of Canada to become an anti-racist church, the Black Clergy Network initiated the call for Black scholarships, research, and development.
The Black Clergy Network Fund represents a substantial fundraising/endowment/bequest from estates, communities of faith, theological schools, the General Council Office and the United Church of Canada Foundation, United Property Resource Corporation, and more.
The United Church of Canada and The United Church of Canada Foundation are committed to becoming anti-racist. This scholarship is a small step in the road to becoming an anti-racist church, in light of the 2021 commitment. Furthermore, it demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing systemic issues that have historically marginalized Black individuals within the church.
Purpose of the Black Clergy Network Scholarship Fund
The Scholarship Fund aims to create opportunities and foster growth for Black individuals in the United Church of Canada, through 3 scholarship streams:
- Clergy in Training: This scholarship focuses on providing resources for those pursuing theological education in United Church-accredited institutions, preparing them for future ministries within the church.
- Post-Secondary: Open to all academic disciplines at the undergraduate or postgraduate levels, this scholarship aligns with the United Church’s values, encouraging Black students to excel in their chosen fields.
- Research: Prioritizing projects that address systemic racism, cultural competency, and theological innovation, this stream enables scholarship recipients to conduct vital research that may challenge oppressive systems within the church.
Ultimately, the goal of the Fund is to promote change, inspire leadership, and enhance the voices of Black people in the church. With this support, recipients can dedicate their time and efforts to projects of lasting significance, ensuring a broader impact on the church and society. That means we are not only nurturing the next generation of leaders, but also challenging existing systems of oppression.
Applying for Support
The Foundation will manage the fund and granting program. The Black Clergy Network Scholarship Committee will oversee the assessment of applications. This ensures that the voices of the Black community are central in the decision-making process.
The award is open to Black people who are part of, or affiliated with, The United Church of Canada as well as children, including those who are sponsored by or in the care of, Black people who are part of The United Church of Canada.
So, if you or anyone you know qualifies for these scholarships, we encourage you to apply for these exciting opportunities. United, we are creating a more equitable and vibrant church community. One that uplifts all voices and truly reflects the diversity of our faith. To apply for the scholarships, click here.
Get in Touch!
As always, we’d love to answer your questions about this or any of our grant and scholarship opportunities! Email us to set up a quick consultation with our team.
