Session to begin at 1:15 PM

Breakout 1A - Sustainability & Scaling Phase

Facilitator: LEI Staff

Location: Chamber

Information for Cohort 3 Grantees applying for Sustaining or Scaling funding in 2026 and preliminary planning tips for Cohort 4 Grantees hosted by LEI.

 

Breakout 1B - Money Follows Mission: Crafting a Compelling Case for Support and Building a Strategic Message Map

Facilitator: Carlos Perkins

Location: Council

Clear mission attracts committed partners. In today’s competitive philanthropic environment, funding no longer flows simply because a need exists—it flows where vision is clear, impact is measurable, and leadership communicates with confidence. In this interactive workshop, participants will learn how to translate ministry vision into a persuasive, donor-centered Case for Support and a strategic message framework that aligns program mission and impact. This session combines research, theology, and practical strategy to help leaders move from vague appeals to focused, fundable messaging. Participants will leave with a draft case framework and a message map ready for immediate refinement and use. 

 

Breakout 1C - Resource Agencies

Facilitator: Villanova University Center for Church Management and Lake Institute and Lutheran Social Services

Location: Cabinet

Visit with resource agencies that support clergy financial well-being. 

 

Breakout 1D - Crafting Evaluative Questions

Facilitator: Kelly Minas

Location: Caucus

Discerning how to ask the right evaluation questions can feel intimidating—but it doesn’t have to. In this session, participants will learn how to take a more joyful, invitational, and holistic approach to evaluation, exploring concrete tools to get to the heart of what really matters about their work. 

Session to begin at 2:45 PM

Breakout 2A - Expanding Your Work: The challenges and opportunities of holding multiple Lilly Endowment grants

Facilitator: Elise Barrett

Location: Council

In this interactive breakout session, participants will discuss the current landscape of Lilly Endowment initiatives, and will work with peers to engage the particularities of how these grants are creating both challenges and opportunities for organizations that hold multiple grants simultaneously. Facilitated table conversations will allow leaders to discuss their own practices and approaches, especially related to managing institutional structures and resources.

 

Breakout 2B - Exploring Legacy Development

Facilitator: Marlon Tilghman

Location: Chamber

Based on Reimagining Discipleship: Leaving a Legacy by Rev. Dr. Marlon Tilghman, this workshop challenges participants to rethink discipleship as a form of liberation via generosity. Participants will explore how intentional faith practices and Black Church History can shape personal growth, strengthen communities, and create a lasting legacy. Through engaging dialogue and practical application, attendees will gain tools for mentoring others and aligning belief with action. Ideal for leaders and learners alike, this experience equips individuals to live boldly, lead faithfully, and impact future generations.
 

Breakout 2C - Resource Agencies

Facilitator: Villanova University Center for Church Management and Lake Institute and Lutheran Social Services

Location: Cabinet 

Visit with resource agencies that support clergy financial well-being.

 

Breakout 2D – ECFPL Graduates Forum

Facilitator: David Loleng, Chris Bouchard, and more... 

Location: Caucus

Dialogue with project leaders from Cohorts 1 and 2.

Advisory Board Consultation

INVITATION ONLY

Facilitator: Bonnie Marden

Location: Council

Date: Monday, May 11, 2026

Time: 10:00-11:00 AM

 

Evaluation Interviews

TIME SLOTS FULL

Facilitator: Sue Weber

Location: Cameral

Date: Monday, May 11, 2026

Time: 11:00 AM-12:00 PM

 

Conversations with Dr. Soaries

Facilitator: Dr. Soaries

Location: Cameral

Date: Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Time: 7:00-9:00 AM

 

Conference Benefits Association

Location: Council

Date: Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Time: 7:00-9:00 AM

^{The coordination program is funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. and administered by the Center for Congregations.}