Operation Understanding
March 1, 2013
Operation Understanding is our diocesan commitment to provide grants to parishes that are deeply involved in outreach ministries throughout our diocese that feed, clothe, and provide energy assistance to the needy. We also fund programs for disadvantaged children. Grants are made possible through the generosity of churches and parishioners who contribute to Operation Understanding through the Alleluia Appeal which takes place during the Easter season.
There are two grant cycles each year, and the application deadline dates are January 31st and October 31st . Grant applications are evaluated based on the outreach ministry’s level of poverty, parish participation in volunteering, support of the Vestry, ecumenical participation, and financial support of the requesting parish. Grants fall within the range of $500 to $2,500. Priority is given to new ministries. Guidelines are found in the link at the bottom of this page.
Progress reports are required to be sent to the OU Committee six months after receipt of a grant. Personal stories, photos, and financial statements contained in the reports give a broad view of the ministry and how effective our diocese is in helping people in need.
An award will be given to the church with the most creative and innovative new outreach program at the Diocesan Convention in June, 2013.
GRANT RECIPIENT COMMENTS:
“By the end of 2013, we will have served over 40,000 meals to needy people.”
Helping Kids
Church of the Nativity, Newport
“Our meals are complimentary and open to all who wish to attend for fellowship and nutritious food. We are so grateful to Operation Understanding for your support.”
Open Table
St. Andrew’s, Lewisburg
“Operation Understanding grants allow us to provide afternoon activities and nutritious meals for 4th and 5th graders who attend Robert Fulton Elementary School.”
Eagle’s Nest
St. John’s, Lancaster
During this time of economic instability, we ask that you pray for all who are suffering great loss in any way within our diocese and beyond our borders:
Almighty God, giver of all gifts: We thank you for our many blessings, especially for your inclusion of us in your Holy Family through the Sacrament of Baptism, thereby bestowing on each of us the name "beloved." May we see this gift not as a call to privilege, but rather to responsibility. May we always look through eyes which perceive our opportunities rather than our burdens, our resources to be shared rather than our shortages to be hoarded. In times of affluence, may we be charitable; in times of scarcity, may we be just. At all times, empower us with the virtues of patience, perception, and perseverance that we might better understand your will for your world and respond in ways that reflect the love of your Son, in whose Name we pray. Amen.
2013 Operation Understanding grant information and forms (PDF format)
Questions to address in your application
