Sabbatical Scholarship Program
Discover how the Grace Place Wellness Sabbatical Scholarships are empowering LCMS church workers with opportunities for rest, renewal and spiritual growth.
2024 Grace Place Wellness Sabbatical Scholarship
Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF) is thrilled to announce the 2024 recipients of the Grace Place Wellness Sabbatical Scholarships. This initiative was designed to support and encourage church workers taking a sabbatical, providing opportunities for rest, renewal and spiritual growth.
Each scholarship provides $5,000 to support sabbatical plans focused on physical, emotional and spiritual wellness. These church workers have dedicated their lives to serving others, and this time away will allow them to recharge personally and professionally, returning to their ministries with fresh inspiration and vision.
Meet the 2024 Recipients
Lead Pastor, St. John’s Lutheran Church, Decatur, Ill.
Through family travel, spiritual retreats, and personal growth, Pastor Ray’s sabbatical will rejuvenate his spirit and deepen bonds with his loved ones.
Pastor, Calvary Lutheran Church, San Lorenzo, Calif.
Pastor Behrens will strengthen family relationships, nurture creative writing, and prioritize holistic health during his sabbatical, fostering personal and spiritual renewal.
Director of Spiritual Growth, St. John Lutheran Church, York, Pa.
Through study, counseling, and time for reflection, Denise Wright will enhance her well-being and provide new tools to strengthen women’s and grief ministries at her church.
Child Care Director, Trinity Lutheran School, Waconia, Minn.
Stephanie Genske will visit churches in the southern U.S., participate in a Christian parenting course, and dedicate time to her family, returning with fresh ideas and renewed joy for ministry.
Learn More about Ministry Sabbatical Scholarships
Visit the Grace Place Wellness Ministry Sabbatical page for more information about the sabbatical scholarships and sabbatical resources for church workers at your congregation or school.
For more information, please contact Rev. Dr. Gregory S. Walton, VP Ministry Solutions, Grace Place Wellness, at greg.walton@lcef.org
Supporting Those Who Serve
“Church workers dedicate their lives to serving others, often at great personal cost,” said Bart Day, President and CEO of LCEF. “Through the Grace Place Wellness Sabbatical Scholarship, we aim to provide them with the opportunity to recharge and refocus, ensuring they can continue their vital work with renewed passion and purpose.”
The Grace Place Wellness Sabbatical Scholarship reflects LCEF’s commitment to sustaining the dedicated efforts of LCMS church leaders and empowering them to better serve their congregations and communities.
LCEF provides church workers with a suite of resources, offering financial solutions, wellness support, housing assistance and a community of peers who understand your journey.