We will build cohorts of approximately 20 churches inviting pastors and industry leaders from each congregation to work together to develop resources that bolster the connection between worship gatherings on Sundays and work during the rest of the week within different contexts and marketplace fields. Our desire is to empower participating churches to embody their theology of faith and work and practically apply it to each community’s individual needs and contexts. Participating congregations receive subgrants of approximately $15,000-$25,000 to support their work.

Within the cohorts, pastors and industry leaders will collaborate to develop resources and practices that strengthen the connection between faith and work. Through facilitated roundtable discussions, workshops, and sessions in partnership with marketplace leaders and Christian entrepreneurs, participants will delve into the theology of faith and work, exploring its implications and applications in their congregations, communities, and workplaces. The cohorts working together in each region will meet together three times per year. In 2027, Regional Faith & Work Conferences will take place that will feature missional, congregational, and spiritual formation sessions, planning, networking, relationship building, workshops, and resource sharing. Discussions and workshops will be led by local experienced practitioners and scholars to explore how God forms a church to participate in God’s mission in the world.

From our collaborative learning, we will create resources (written curriculum, articles, video/digital resources). Participants will be asked to articulate and develop tools based on their work within their local congregation and their interactions with other participating congregations. Content experts and experienced practitioners will be invited to provide guidance and support to participants during the resource development process. We are committed to working with congregations, partnering with them to give voice to the work, insights, dialogue, and stories of thriving congregations that will foster a community of listeners who are inspired to make a positive impact in their workplaces, communities, and beyond.

We are in the process of developing a certification that will feature multi-track, cohort-based learning through micro-courses. Through it all, our hope and prayer is to see local congregations thrive and to cultivate healthy perspectives on leadership development and community engagement through the churches.