The dream of Bridges was to create a program that would help congregations grow in their cultural competency so that they could Bridge the Gap between their church and the community around them. Over the past 2 years, 150 leaders from across 30 congregations have experienced the program, which has deepened their spirituality, enhanced their storytelling, and kick-started their missional imagination.

Bridges has transformed the lives of the people who have participated so far. One person from the second cohort of Bridges shared “I think every relationship in my life will be different because of this weekend.” Exciting things are ahead for EPA and GNJ as together we work to grow our cultural competency and our spirituality.

The $750,000 Scaling Grant from the Lilly Foundation will allow EPA & GNJ to expand Bridges to include pastors and church leaders in EPA & GNJ. Bridges will become part of the Journey of Hope and Wholeness Pathways program.

To learn more, email Alyssa Ruch, Director of Pathways Bridges, at aruch@epagnj.org today! Also make sure to visit the Pathways Bridges page to register your church for the next cohort.

Overview

Participants will engage in a 12-month cohort experience punctuated by three, onsite events. Through a highly experiential program rooted in relationship, playfulness, storytelling, and self-reflection, participating congregations will emerge with:

  1. an ability to identify their own social location
  2. the skills to practice deep empathy, even amidst difference
  3. a deeper theological understanding of the role of diversity in the Imago Dei
  4. a clarified sense of their Christian values and mission
  5. a renewed engagement in meaningful spiritual practices
  6. more delight in both God and others

All three phases will include the following:

  • a multiday gathering experience
  • a rhythm of storytelling, story listening, and deep reflection
  • ongoing homework assignments supported by focused coaching

Testimonies




Participants

Each year long cohort will accept up to 30 congregations within the Eastern Pennsylvania and Greater New Jersey Annual Conferences. Each team will consist of the pastor and 3 – 6 laity. These teams will be responsible for implementing the material in their context in such a way that builds bridges for lasting change. Again, we are thrilled that the Lilly Endowment has continued to invest so significantly in our mission, and we look forward to continuing this work over the next three years (2025 – 2028)!

To learn more and register your congregation, visit the Pathways Bridges page.