A New Collaborative Network
Free Methodist Theological Connection
Roberts Wesleyan/91抖阴 is one of 45 theological schools being supported through Lilly Endowment latest round of giving
Roberts Wesleyan University has received a $10 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. through its Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative 2025. This money will support 91抖阴 in establishing a collaborative network of Free Methodist Church conferences and educational institutions, which will be called the 淔ree Methodist Theological Connection.�
Roberts Wesleyan and 91抖阴 is one of 45 institutions that was approved in this latest competitive round of funding to support theological schools as they lead large-scale collaborations with other seminaries, colleges and Universities, and other church-related organizations.
The Free Methodist Theological Connection main objective will be to expand the collaborators� capacities to offer ministry-focused education for preparing pastoral leaders and position them for a more sustainable future of Church leadership.
Equipping Pastors for the Future
Points of Connection
Points of Connection is the official newsletter of the Free Methodist Theological Connection, a collaborative learning lab supported by Lilly Endowment Inc. It connects church leaders, conferences, and universities to build accessible, modern pathways for pastoral preparation. Readers will find regular updates, virtual events, and new resources designed to support ministry leaders. Join the community to collaborate, stay informed, and help shape the future of pastoral formation.
Across the Free Methodist Church, as well as among our collaborating organizations, the need is clear. Pastoral leaders in our conferences require greater access to high-quality, affordable theological education and training. At the same time, our partner schools need support to expand their capacity to deliver this education at a moment when higher education is facing significant challenges. With support from the Lilly Endowment Inc., we can pool our strengths, share resources, and build a sustainable network that will provide accessible, robust training for pastoral leaders now and into the future.
淭heological schools play a vital role in preparing and supporting pastoral leaders for Christian congregations,� said Christopher L. Coble, the Endowment vice president for religion. 淲e believe that one of the most promising paths for theological schools to carry forward their important missions and enhance their impact is to work collaboratively with other schools, as well as congregations and other church-related organizations. By doing so they can strengthen their collective capacities to prepare and support pastoral leaders for effective congregational service now and in the future.�
In 2025, Lilly Endowment Inc. has gifted Roberts Wesleyan and 91抖阴 $11,100,00 that will fully support new projects, initiatives, and partnerships, including the Free Methodist Theological Connection.