Menu
Center for Congregations Logo

2024 ANNUAL REPORT

Tim Shapiro

FROM THE PRESIDENT

We Believe in the Power of Congregations

The true story of your congregations today is not one of decline; it is one of life-changing impact. We see it every day. You are shaping stronger communities. You are helping your congregants travel deeper in their religious claims and commitments.
Over the last year, your work has inspired us. We’ve seen congregations participate in our Mental Health Initiative. You are breaking down stigmas and strengthening the connection between faith and mental wellness.

We’ve also launched Congregations with Community, a new way to help you partner with local non-profits to solve shared problems.

Last year we served more congregations, awarded more grants, discovered more resources than in the history of the Center.

Last year, one grant was used to bring a leased building where worship takes place up to code. Another grant provided mentoring for elementary school students. Still another project funded a congregation to visit Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Dr. King, Sr. preached. We are serving a much more diverse population and are give thanks many times over for this.

These are not just programs; they are expressions of a richer, more soulful way of living. Thank you for letting us be a part of your journey this year. We are so grateful for you and the incredible work you are doing.

We may be a catalyst, yet it is your ideas, your calling, your work that changes lives. \
Remember, our sole purpose is to support and strengthen this vital work. Our mission is to help congregations like yours find and use the very best resources to address your unique challenges and opportunities. We start by listening, because we know that you are the ultimate expert on your community. Our role is to offer guidance, through consulting, educational events, and our online resource guide (thecrg.org) so that you can make the most informed choices regarding what you’ve been called to accomplish.

Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your story this year. We are grateful for the trust you’ve placed in us and we look forward to listening to you and learning from you for years to come. Your work matters, and we are so thankful for your congregation.

30
Number of MHI Grants
$1,133,869
Total Amount of MHI Grant Dollars
303
Number of Registrants for MHI Education Events

2023 Education By the Numbers

66

Total Education Workshops (Virtual and In-Person)

577

Workshop Attendees

154

First Time Workshop Attendees

40%

Percentage of BIPOC Workshop Presenters and Podcast Guests

23

Number of New Podcast Episodes Released in 2023

2023 Grants By the Numbers

399

Total Number of Grants Awarded

$7,785,782

Total Amount of Dollars Awarded

93

Total Number of Equity Grants

265

Total Number of Resource Grants


The Center for Congregations helps Indiana congregations through no cost consulting, educational events, grants, and additional resources.


  • We listen to congregations about their needs.
  • We provide information and options without telling congregations what to do.
  • We help congregations find vendors, consultants and organizations.
  • We give congregations the space and time to work through the information.
  • And we offer grants to help congregations fund these things.

You’re invited to connect with us.