Illinois Great Rivers Conference, UMC
2027 Holy Currencies
Ministry Incubation Cohort
Holy Currencies is a model for developing congregational ministries, created by the Kaleidoscope Institute (KI). Used internationally, the model strengthens the impact and sustainability of community-oriented ministries through six "currencies" — resources that, when combined, lead to more transformational ministry.
Applications are Now Open!
Click here to Download the Application
The Holy Currencies Ministry Incubation Project
Overview of the Incubation Process
The Illinois Great Rivers Conference is seeking congregations with:
Existing ministries they would like to expand or better connect to the community, or
Clear commitments to future initiatives for which the Holy Currencies model could strengthen impact and success.
In partnership with the Kaleidoscope Institute, we will support a cohort of up to six congregations in learning and applying the Holy Currencies model to incubate a congregational ministry. The cohort will begin in January 2027 with formal training concluding in June of 2027. By the end of the process, congregations will have developed a ministry plan for sustainable community partnership, including a roadmap for building relationships, exploring community partnerships, and strengthening congregational leadership.
If accepted, we'll help you incubate your ministry to become more sustainable and more connected to your community. Click here to download the application. When completed please email it to your District Superintendent.
Submit your application by December 4, 2026. Email it to your District Superintendent.
Pre-orientation webinar via Zoom January 6, 2027 at 6pm.
Orientation training (TBD): Bring a team of six to eight leaders from your church to the Holy Currencies Incubation Orientation, covering the currencies of gracious leadership and relationship.
Site visitation: Kaleidoscope Institute and Illinois Great Rivers staff will visit your team early in the program to learn about your church, your community, and to establish coaching relationships.
Four webinars: Your team will attend four two-hour webinars over four months, covering the currencies of time and place, truth, wellness, and money.
Congregational ministry development: Between webinars, your team will complete five assignments engaging your team and congregation in a discernment process.
New ministry plan: Your team will complete the assignments and create a ministry plan that strategically leverages the currencies, increases sustainability, and strengthens community connection. There may be additional opportunities to present your final plan to potential partners.
Key Dates
Milestone
Application review (short-listed applicants may be contacted for a brief call)
Selected congregations and teams notified
Two-day in-person training with your Congregational Holy Currencies Team
Monthly 2-hour evening webinars (days TBD) with Kaleidoscope Institute — covering all six currencies, completing assignments, and developing your ministry plan
Site Visits (this is a 2-3 hr time where we will visit your ministry and listen together for how the Holy Currencies are flowing
Celebrate and finalize your ministry plan
Date
December 4, 2026
December 7, 2026
December 8, 2026
TBD
4th Thursday of each month from 6pm to 8pm
February 25, March 25, April 22, May 27
March 15 to March 22
2-3 time slot hours to be scheduled
June 26, 2027 from 9am to Noon
Contact Us
For more information, please feel free to reach out to us here.