Friends,
It brings me great joy to share with you a new grant program in our diocese, intended to empower congregations to invite, gather, or otherwise engage our LGBTQ+ neighbors in communities and conversations of faith.
These new LGBTQ+ Engagement Grants support both invitation to LGBTQ+ people not currently connected to a faith community as well as the deepening of belonging, leadership, and spiritual life among LGBTQ+ Episcopalians already in our midst. These funds go beyond our existing efforts for presence at Pride festivals and parades; they can be used for special liturgies, affinity groups, formation series, and other gatherings.
Grant amounts range from $150-1,000 and applications will be reviewed by a subcommittee of the new LGBTQ+ Task Force. View more details, including granting guidelines, on our website.
In 2026, grants will be reviewed on the following timeline, or until budgeted funds are depleted:
- Submit applications by May 15, for consideration in late May
- Submit applications by July 31, for consideration in early August
- Submit applications by October 31, for consideration in early November
For more information about LGBTQ+ Ministry in the Diocese of Southern Ohio, visit our resource page.
Yours in Christ,
Canon Katie Forsyth
Canon for Communications & Governance
The Episcopal Diocese of Southern Ohio
Other members of the grant review subcommittee:
The Rev. Robert Hill – Good Shepherd, Athens & Epiphany, Nelsonville
Kirsten Marron – Christ Church Cathedral, Cincinnati
Asher Thomas – St. James, Clintonville
Canon Julie Murray – Staff Liaison
