Invitation to Apply for the MCNZ Moemoeā Grant Fund

To: Parishes (including Cooperating Ventures) and Rohe, Synods and Hui Poari, and other Methodist Church Entities

Tēnā koutou katoa,

The Budget Task Group invites applications to the Moemoeā Grant Fund, which supports innovative, visionary, and creative initiatives within the Methodist Church of New Zealand – Te Hāhi Weteriana o Aotearoa. Priority will be given to projects that align with Conference-approved strategic objectives and demonstrate potential for transformative and sustainable impact across our faith communities.

Application Guidelines
Applications should clearly articulate the purpose of the initiative, how it will be implemented, and the change it seeks to bring about. Proposals will be assessed on their anticipated impact, alignment with Church priorities, and the clarity of measurable outcomes for the intended community.

Applications for property development will not be considered. Proposals more appropriately aligned with environmental or creation-focused initiatives should instead be directed to the Rekindle the Vā of Papatūānuku Grant Fund.

Each application must include:

• A detailed description of the initiative, including objectives and implementation plans.
• A projected impact statement, outlining expected changes and benefits for your target audience.
• A clear connection to one or more of the Church’s strategic priorities (outlined below).
• A comprehensive budget detailing funding needs and how the grant will be utilised.

The priorities for funding provide a framework for the types of projects that will be considered. These include:

    1. Leadership Development & Succession

• Building leadership capacity that reflects the bicultural nature of the Church.
• Rangatahi (youth) leadership training, development, and space.
• Succession planning to ensure sustainable leadership across generations.

   2. Theological Education & Spiritual Growth

• Contextual theological education and ministry training for a changing world.
• Spiritual growth and development for both presbyters and laypeople, fostering a deeper faith.
• Encouraging a sound theological faith understanding in all aspects of Church life.

    3. Justice & Prophetic Voice

The Church as a prophetic voice, actively speaking up and advocating for justice.

• Commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, ensuring the Church embodies true partnership.
• Inclusiveness, ensuring the Church welcomes and supports all people.

    4. Sustainability & Operational Strength

• Building a solvent and sustainable Church for the future.
• Sharing resources across the whole Church (One Hāhi).
• Transparency, planning, and consistency in decision-making and governance.

   5. Vitality of Church Life & Mission

• Parish vitality and growth, ensuring vibrant worshipping communities.
• Encouraging team ministry development, fostering collaboration.
• Supporting mission and outreach, engaging with the wider community, particularly those in need.

   6. Environmental Stewardship (Te Taiao)

• Caring for creation as part of the Church’s mission and responsibility.
• Integrating sustainability and environmental awareness into Church practice.

    7. Partnership & Whanaungatanga

• Authentic intergenerational partnership within the Church.
• Strengthening whanaungatanga (relationships) within and beyond the Church.
• Empathy and inclusion for both active and non-active members, especially those in low socio-economic groups.

Submission Deadline:

Applications must be submitted to the Connexional Office to [E-Mail not displayed] by 30 May 2026. Late applications will not be considered.

We encourage all interested parishes, cooperating ventures, rohe, synods, hui poari, and Methodist entities to apply and bring forth their moemoeā (vision) for the Church’s future. Should you have any queries regarding the application process, please do not hesitate to contact the General Secretary.

We look forward to receiving your proposals and to witnessing the transformative work of God through your initiatives.