In September 2006, MB Biblical Seminary's Ministry Quest program received a grant from the Lilly Endowment Inc. that will allow the program to continue calling out, developing and training young leaders for churches and their communities through at least 2011.
Ministry Quest was founded in 2002 through two grants from the Lilly Endowment Inc. In its first four years, the program has walked 148 female and male participants from the U.S. and Canada through a 1-year program that includes two retreats, ministry opportunities in their home congregations, and mentoring by mature Christians from their communities.
According to John Neufeld, the latest grant "recognizes programs that have matured and are demonstrating impact but are not yet financially self supporting." Neufeld, who serves as the Coach for Emerging Leaders for the Canadian Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches, initiated the Ministry Quest program and developed the proposal that led to the current round of funding from the Lilly Endowment Inc.
The new matching grant of $600,000 requires the seminary to raise an equivalent amount towards Ministry Quest and related initiatives.
"This new funding allows us to continue helping churches raise up leaders," says Ministry Quest director Cam Priebe. "It's a key piece of the Seminary's mission to inspire and equip men and women to be disciples of Jesus Christ, and to serve and lead in the church and in the world."
Posted: October 13, 2006