Special Assistance for EDI Congregations

The Diocese offers news and financial relief.

The Episcopal Diocese of Indianapolis posts and updates COVID-19 related resources and guidelines at indydio.org. There is much encouragement and connection to be found here, including words of wisdom from Bishop Jennifer. We urge you to check this site frequently.

The diocesan website also reports on specific relief provisions and government assistance available to congregations in the Episcopal Diocese of Indianapolis. As the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic continues, congregations in our Diocese can seek financial relief from the federal government, the Church Pension Fund and the Bishop’s office. Details about each form of relief can be found here.
If you need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact Canon Brendan O’Sullivan-Hale at brendan@indydio.org.

Financial assistance programs
​through the Pathways to Vitality Initiative.

The following is a list of financial education and financial aid programs for Episcopal Diocese of Indianapolis clergy, available year-round through the Pathways to Vitality initiative. All are made possible through a generous grant from Lilly Endowment Inc.

Benefits Flyer

Ministerial Excellence Fund Grants

The Ministerial Excellence Fund provides financial relief to diocesan clergy and their families who are experiencing financial distress. Funds may be granted to help with most personal situations that negatively impact ministry. Learn how to apply.

Free Personal Financial Planning for Clergy

Active diocesan clergy can receive one year of free, confidential financial advising from Lisa Brown, CPA, MBA of Highfield & Associates. The service is personalized and helps clergy and their families create a household budget, debt repayment plan, emergency fund or other financial solutions. Learn more.

Seminary Debt Assistance

The Diocese will assist its clergy with repayment of seminary debt through annual grants and in addition, match a priest’s monthly payments on a sliding scale. Click here for details.

Free Money Management Tool: You Need a Budget (YNAB)

YNAB is a software app that connects all your bank accounts, then tracks spending to provide instant snapshots of your day-to-day financial situation. Clergy can try the app free for 30 days. Should you elect to subscribe, the Diocese will pay for the first year.
 
For personal assistance with any of these programs, please contact Melissa Hickman, Program Director for the Pathways to Vitality Initiative, at melissa.e.hickman@gmail.com.