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Invitation to Apply Rekindle the Vā of Papatūānuku Grant Fund – 2026

To: Parishes and Rohe, Synods and Hui Poari, and all Methodist Church entities

Tēnā koutou katoa,

As we continue our Climate Justice Decade journey in 2026, we warmly invite applications for the Rekindle the Vā of Papatūānuku Grant Fund.

This fund supports practical, faithful, and courageous action across our Connexion — projects that restore relationship with the whenua, protect our waters, strengthen communities, and deepen our theological commitment to climate justice.

About the Fund

“Rekindle the Vā of Papatūānuku” calls us to renew our sacred relationship with the earth, to remember that creation is not a resource to be used, but a covenant partner to be honoured.

Through this fund, we seek to enable initiatives that:

  • Restore ecosystems and protect biodiversity
  • Reduce environmental harm
  • Strengthen climate resilience
  • Support those most impacted by climate change
  • Deepen theological reflection on our role as kaitiaki

This is about action rooted in faith, turning prayer into practice.

Who Can Apply?

All Methodist parishes, rohe, synods, Hui Poari, and recognised Methodist Church entities across Aotearoa are eligible to apply.

Collaborative projects across parishes or cultural fellowships are especially encouraged.

What Kind of Projects Will Be Supported?

We welcome a wide range of initiatives aligned with the Climate Justice Decade themes, including:

Sustainable Church Practices

  • Zero waste / Para Kore initiatives
  • Energy efficiency improvements
  • Carbon reduction plans

Ecological Restoration

  • Tree planting and native regeneration

  • Wetland restoration

  • Community gardens and food resilience projects

Theological Education & Advocacy

  • Climate justice workshops
  • Liturgical and worship resource development
  • Intergenerational education programmes

Community-Based Initiatives

  • Local sustainability partnerships

  • Recycling and composting systems

  • Support for climate-affected communities

Creative & Prophetic Expression

  • Murals, storytelling, music, and artistic projects
  • Cultural expressions that inspire care for creation

Sustainable Transport Solutions

  • Carpooling systems
  • Cycling promotion
  • EV charging infrastructure for church sites

Projects should clearly demonstrate connection to the Climate Justice Decade priorities.

Application Process

Deadline: 30 June 2026
Maximum Grant per Project: $15,000
Submission: Email completed applications and required financial documentation to
[E-Mail not displayed]

Applications will be reviewed by the Climate Justice Working Group.

Successful applicants will be asked to provide a brief progress report within six months of receiving funding.

This is an invitation to act, not only in response to environmental crisis, but in response to our calling as covenant people in Aotearoa.

Let us be known as a Church that does not speak lightly about climate justice, but lives it - in our buildings, our budgets, our preaching, and our daily choices.

Join us in Rekindling the Vā of Papatūānuku. 

Application Form