As we near the end of the year, we are taking some time in each of our newsletters to talk about and demonstrate how Montreat Conference Center’s ministry is supported by gifts from individuals, families, churches, and other organizations. A vibrant culture of philanthropy has sustained Montreat and supported its ministry for over a century and continues to aid in our ability to provide programming and other resources to thousands of people each year. Specifically, donations to the Montreat Fund and other endowments allow us to welcome inspirational speakers and provide scholarships for those with financial need. In these ways and more, Montreat Patrons are able to have a direct impact on the Montreat experience and the future of the church.
Each year, thousands of high school youth venture to Montreat for a time of worship, community, and faith-development. While we strive to make our youth conferences available to all who wish to participate, we recognize that cost can be a concern. To address this issue, the Morgan Endowment was created to provide permanent support to youth conference attendees with financial need. Because of this fund, scholarship recipients come to know that Montreat is a place where they can seek authenticity, community, and connection while being affirmed in their calling to be and shape the church of Jesus Christ. (You can hear more about the impacts of Montreat Youth Conference in the video below.)
In addition to youth conference scholarships, Montreat is also blessed to offer financial support to pastors, church professionals, and seminarians through the J. Randolph Taylor Fellows Program. This endowment was established by the late Rev. Dr. J. Randolph Taylor and his wife, Arline, to make it possible for those serving the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) to find time for spiritual reflection and renewal at Montreat. From continuing education to rest and recreation, this fund supports church professionals and seminarians as they recharge for fruitful ministry.
Lastly, all Montreat visitors are able to hear and learn from great leaders thanks to the support of the Montreat Fund and other monetary gifts. Because the Montreat Fund sustains all elements of Montreat’s ministry (in the 2024-2025 Fiscal Year, the Montreat Fund contributed to 15% of the conference center’s annual operating budget), gifts made to the fund impact Montreat’s programs and its ability to welcome a variety of leaders to our youth and adult conferences. Similarly, thanks to the support of other funds, Montreat’s Summer Worship Series is able to welcome leading preachers from across the country, offering a sacred place for community members to connect and grow in spiritual understanding each summer.
Montreat is able to provide transformational experiences, both for those serving the church and those who are just beginning their journey of faith, thanks to the commitment of those who have made a gift to an endowment or the Montreat Fund. However you may choose to support Montreat, we are grateful! Because, without you, the Montreat experience would not be possible for so many.
If you have not made a gift to the Montreat Fund yet, we would like to encourage you to do so before the end of the year. You can easily make a gift online, or, if you prefer to make a gift by check, security transfer, or through your IRA, you can find out more about various ways to give by clicking here.
This article was originally published in the December edition of Montreat Conference Center’s email newsletter Cultivating Curiosity which highlights for spiritual growth at Montreat. Sign up to receive Cultivating Curiosity directly in your inbox by clicking here.