Thriving Congregations Retreats

Faith in Place is offering this opportunity to cultivate the relationship between clergy and lay leadership within congregations, equipping them to elevate the environmental ministries within their church community.

Through this program, a clergy and layperson team from each congregation will join a cohort of five churches and two non-Christian houses of worship who, through two off-site retreats, ongoing coaching and cohort participation, will be inspired to formulate a new or enhance an existing Green Team to lead your congregation in Earth Care, environmental justice advocacy, and ultimately to be champions for a healthier community!

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As part of this cohort, you will: 

1. Attend (1 clergy leader & 1 lay member) a 3-day, 2-night retreat designed to draw connections between environmental justice, your faith tradition and your church’s vision. 1

2. Complete a community asset map and a 12-Month Action Plan for Green Team activities for your congregation.

3. Work towards completion of your 12-Month Action Plan with monthly Faith in Place outreach mentorship and quarterly peer-to-peer cohort support.

4. Attend a second retreat, 12 months after the first retreat, where your clergy/lay team will report progress on the 12-Month plan and develop a long-term action plan.

5. Complete pre- and post-retreat surveys for both retreats.

6. Receive a $250 stipend per participant, per retreat. (Note: All pre-approved travel expenses will also be covered.)​

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​All churches and houses of worship in the Chicagoland area are welcome to apply! Cohort members will be selected to ensure a diverse group of voices and experiences can contribute to the learning experience.

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