CCTEF Awards Nearly $1 million in Grants to Support Theological Education
By Higher Education and Ministry
The Central Conference Theological Education Fund (CCTEF) awarded $992,594 in grants to support theological education across The United Methodist Church. During its spring 2026 meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, commissioners reviewed $3.9 million in funding requests and made awards from a total allocation of $1.03 million. The final grant list was released in August.
“These investments ensure that leaders across the global church receive high-quality preparation for pastoral ministry, contextual leadership, and faithful service,” said Roland Fernandes, general secretary of the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry and Global Ministries.
Among the largest grants awarded was $62,032.14 for East Africa’s Course of Study for Clergy and Laity program. The program provides theological education and ministry training for current and future church leaders, helping meet the region’s ongoing need for well-prepared clergy and lay servants.
East Africa received several grants, reflecting the region’s rapid church growth and increasing demand for theological education. In addition to the Course of Study program, the region received $46,000 for a United Methodist theological education program, supporting efforts to expand leadership development opportunities and strengthen ministerial formation.
The 2026 meeting brought together leaders from Africa, Europe, Asia, and the United States, reflecting the global diversity and connectional nature of The United Methodist Church.
Established by the 2012 General Conference of The United Methodist Church, the Central Conference Theological Education Fund strengthens theological education and pastoral formation across the church’s Central Conferences in Africa, Europe, and the Philippines. Since its creation, the fund has awarded more than 1,000 grants supporting theological schools, courses of study, library development, contextual learning resources, scholarships, faculty development, educational networks, and innovative approaches to theological education.
The 2026 CCTEF application cycle opens October 15 and closes December 15. Learn more about CCTEF and how to apply.
The Central Conference Theological Education Fund (CCTEF) Commission met earlier this year to review more than 130 CCTEF grant applications. The Commission awarded nearly $1,000,000 to 84 projects. The grants have increased the capacity of leaders in mission fields, developed contextual resources, supported innovations in education and ministry, and enabled sustainable programs and practices in Africa, Europe,e and the Philippines. Photo by Kimberly Lord
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