The North Central District is excited to announce that we are expanding the work of our foundation to include pastoral development (this new focus will likely take many forms).

This year, empowered by a $100,000 gift from a generous donor, the NCD will begin awarding seminary scholarships for aspiring lead pastors. These scholarships will focus on aspiring pastors who share our convictions, embrace our ethos, feel called to preach, are pursuing an MDiv or equivalent, and desire to serve in a future lead pastor ministry with the NCD (or broader EFCA). Beginning in late 2025, we will award one $10,000 and two $5,000 scholarships each year. Our hope is that we will do this each year for the next five years. Scholarship recipients will be announced each year at our annual Fall Teaching Conference in early October.

We hope our small contribution will genuinely bless and empower those who receive these scholarships. Even more, we desire that our NCD congregations might follow our example and renew their commitment to raising up and training future pastors through similar investments in seminary education. The church of the future needs pastors who deeply love, thoroughly know, genuinely understand, and passionately share God’s Word. 

Do I have to be enrolled at a particular seminary?

 No, these grants are available to be used at any evangelical seminary that shares our biblical convictions and gospel-shaped mission.

What degree do I need to be aspiring to get?

These scholarships are for those seeking an MDiv or equivalent. While very valuable, Master of Arts and Bachelors degrees are not eligible for these scholarships.

What expenses can these scholarship funds go toward?

NCD seminary scholarship funds are intended for tuition and fees. They may not be used for other educational expenses such as books, living expenses, debt relief, or other related costs.

What other factors are required to be eligible for the scholarships?

• Potential recipients will need to be endorsed by an NCD church.
• Candidates must intend to serve in pastoral ministry within the North Central District (or broader EFCA) after graduation.
• Preference will be given to applicants who are currently serving in an NCD congregation.
• Pastors who currently serve in lead roles with the NCD are not eligible for this particular scholarship.
• Those who are currently in seminary and being supported financially by NCD churches will also be given preference.
• Scholarship are available to students at any point during their degree program. Preference will be given to candidates closer to degree completion.

When can candidates apply for a scholarship?

This summer, the NCD will establish an application process and share it with NCD pastors, church leaders, and churches. Initial applications will begin in July, with the first awards being made at our Fall Teaching Conference in early October.