Our Church is blessed by many generous, self-sacrificing people. Their dedication to the Church’s mission stems from their love of God, whose face they encounter in the poor, the child, the suffering and vulnerable.  They are ordained, religious and lay people, each answering a call to give of themselves for the good of God’s Kingdom.

So often these leaders labor for others with no expectation of reward. Yet, some may risk “burnout,” given that some communities are facing extremely difficult times. 

Challenges facing pastoral leaders today

People turn to our Church’s pastoral leaders seeking help and care when they are experiencing economic stress, food insecurity, failing health, have status immigration fears, or are facing violence.  Pastoral leaders respond to all of these issues.

Catholic Extension Society is introducing temporary funding to support our pastoral leaders on “the frontlines” of these types of issues to ensure that that these leaders are able to care for themselves and maintain their mental, spiritual and physical stamina for their demanding ministries.  

Funding Opportunity

Therefore, to help fuel and nurture them in ministry, Catholic Extension Society will offer small subsidies of $1,000 – $5,000 for individual pastoral leaders, and $5,000 -$10,000 for groups of pastoral leaders. To be eligible, they must minister in presently difficult circumstances.  While this initiative places primary emphasis on supporting the personal renewal and well‑being of pastoral leaders, Catholic Extension Society also recognizes that urgent ministerial needs can arise; therefore, requests that address immediate community challenges will still be considered when leaders are unable to take time for self‑care. Support can be provided to fund the following activities or needs:

  1. Gatherings of pastoral leaders (ordained, lay, religious) to convene this year to reflect and/or dialogue with peers with the intent of renewing themselves for their ministry.
  2. Support for pastoral leaders on the frontlines to do a retreat, take an enrichment course, or a pilgrimage this year to “recharge their spiritual batteries.” 
  3. Funding is available to support the ministries of pastoral leaders who are struggling to fund a quickly evolving need that requires their immediate attention.  

TO APPLY:

Please submit your application in the portal by June 19, 2026.