Skip to Main Content

Apply Now for Small Town/Rural Church Grants

Posted: February 26 2025 at 04:00 AM
Author: Rev. Libby Rutherford, chair of the Keagy/Town and Rural Committee


Rural Fields 7287267

Are you in a small-town or rural church? Have you been dreaming of a creative ministry opportunity in your community, but need a little financial help? The Northern Illinois Conference awards two grants for rural ministry each year—the PACK (Planned Act of Christian Kindness) Grant and the Keagy Grant—to empower small-town and rural churches in their community outreach.  

PACK grants range from $100 to $500. They are meant to help churches bless the community outside of the church to show them Jesus Christ’s love.  

The Keagy Grants range from $500 to $5,000. They are funded by a bequest from Martin Keagy, who had a big heart for small-town and rural churches. These grants are for larger ministry projects that benefit the community and strengthen the church’s evangelism, discipleship, justice, and compassion.

Find the grant applications here. Winners are usually notified within two months after the March 31 deadline. Recipients will present their ministries at the Town and Rural Festival held in the fall. If you have any questions about the grants or the grant process, please contact Rev. Libby Rutherford.

Be sure to apply by March 31!

News & Announcements

Bible Hope Flower Image

2026 Will Be a Year of Hope

Bishop Schwerin looks ahead to 2026 by turning to scripture; specifically, Psalm 130:5: “I wait for the Lord; my soul waits, and in his word, I hope.” He ponders, What kind of spiritual focus is nee…

Sympathynoticeflowers

In Sympathy: Lora Zink

Rev. Lora Zink, a retired member of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025.

Sympathynoticeflowers

In Sympathy: Freda Whittle

Mrs. Freda Whittle, surviving spouse of Rev. Paul Whittle Jr., a deceased member of the Northern Illinois Conference, passed away on April 16, 2025.

Scales Mound Vbs Boys

VBS Adventures Inspire Faith and Community

This summer, churches across the conference brought vacation Bible school to life, each one putting its own unique spin on the beloved tradition. From creative scheduling and special…

Print