In partnership with the Love of Church Ministries (LOC) of the United Church of Christ, the United Church Board for Ministerial Assistance (UCBMA) is committed to support new and renewing churches through grants that assist their pastors to participate in the Pension Boards’ Lifetime Retirement Income Plan and/or the UCC Medical Benefits Plan. Since 2008, UCBMA has provided up to $100,000 annually to help new and renewing church pastors save for retirement and/or have medical benefits.
The New Church Start Grant typically last three years. The amount awarded is at the discretion of LOC/Faith INFO, with a maximum of $10,000 awarded in the first year of the grant. The amount of the grant will decrease in each subsequent year of the program.
Upon conclusion of a minister’s employment, the grant will end for that pastor and congregation. The pastor may continue their participation in the benefit plans at their own expense, or at the expense of the next employing church. Congregations may apply to continue the grant with their new pastor.
Application Process and Eligibility
Applications for 2026 are paused for strategic planning. If you would like to receive updates, please email [email protected] and we will add you to our communications list.
Funding
The source of funding is the Ministerial Assistance Fund.