The Brethren Faith in Action Fund (BFIA) recently distributed three new grants. BFIA provides grants using money generated by the sale of the upper campus of the Brethren Service Center in New Windsor, Md. Find out more at www.brethren.org/faith-in-action.
Camp Emmaus in Mount Morris, Ill., has received $3,350 toward the expense of replacing the craft building’s roof. The craft building in used in a variety of ways; the ends of the building have bunkbeds to house campers, and beneath the building machines are stored and firewood is dried. The various ministries at Camp Emmaus change lives through music, worship, and relationships at family camp, youth camp, and adult week.
Friendship Church of the Brethren in Linthicum Heights, Md., has received a grant of $5,000 to enhance and expand its community outreach by replacing old playground equipment on church property. The project includes the removal and disposal of 25+-year-old playground equipment, spreading accessible playground mulch, building an ADA ramp, installing new accessible equipment, and offering scheduled Bible-themed play events. After surveying the congregation and community, the church discerned the need for a safe, accessible play area for children. Upgrading the church’s playground equipment helps to meet the congregation’s goal of reaching more children and families in the community.
Prince of Peace (Colo.) Church of the Brethren has received a grant of $5,000 to enhance the congregation’s monthly Blues/Pop Music Open Mic night. As part of an effort to be Jesus in the Neighborhood, the congregation provides a place to celebrate local live music and the people who support it. Open Mic offers a place for people to experience the love of Jesus, provides a supportive community to encourage and mentor new talent and experienced musicians, offers a safe space for the community to gather and break free from isolation and loneliness due to the COVID pandemic, and introduces the live music community to the congregation’s version of Jesus in the Neighborhood. Grant funds will support the enhancement of sound equipment, event promotion, snacks, and a stipend for the backline band.