Samford University

Samford University

Equipping the Called logoCenter for Congregational Resources

Grantee: Samford University
Location: Homewood, AL
Website: https://www.samford.edu/congregational-resources/
Project Contact: Keri Burns
Email: keburns@samford.edu   

Who we serve

Our project serves congregations in a rural or small-town setting, primarily within the state of Alabama. We welcome all rural and small-town congregations who desire to love their communities as Christ loves the church. 

How we support rural congregations and ministry leaders

Our project is built around three core activities:  

  • Equipping the Called Leadership Program - Equipping the Called is an online, six-month course designed specifically for clergy and lay leaders serving in rural and small-town churches. Grounded in systems thinking and theological insights, this program will equip them with practical tools to nurture spiritual formation, strengthen key relationships, and foster lasting community input. 
  • Workshops and Conferences - Each year we will host workshops, seminars, and lunch and learns that address specific needs and challenges facing leaders of rural and small-town congregations. 
  • Collaboration Partners - This cohort of ten organizations will develop their own programming for the congregations in their contexts. This is a diverse group of denominational, non-profit, and educational leaders. 

Our partners

Samford workshopCollaboration Partners

  • Alabama Center for Pastoral Resilience
  • Alabama State Board of Missions (SBC) 
  • Catholic Diocese of Alabama 
  • Cooperative Baptist Fellowship 
  • Jefferson County District Missionary Baptist Association 
  • PCUSA Wilcox County 
  • Selma University 
  • Shelby Baptist Association
  • Unforsaken Ministry 
  • University of Mobile 

Programmatic Partners will include non-profits and other service providers who will bring content relevant to rural and small-town ministry efforts. 

Our faith tradition

Samford University is a historically Baptist university, but our grant activities are intentionally ecumenical.  

Geographical focus

The majority of project implementation will be in the state of Alabama, although re-grant partners will have a broader regional impact.