The coronavirus pandemic and its associated shutdown have led to unexpected and serious challenges for people around the world. Church workers are no exception.
In response, the Synod’s long-time Soldiers of the Cross grant assistance program has been “amplified” so that not only those workers who are on the Synod’s roster, but also lay workers in LCMS churches, schools and organizations, may apply for assistance.
As of June 4, $492,402 in Soldiers of the Cross—Amplified grants has been disbursed to 334 workers, with an average grant of $1,474.26 per worker. The grants process is administered by the LCMS Office of National Mission, and workers in crisis are encouraged to contact their district office for an application and guidance.
The Rev. Dr. Ross Johnson, director of LCMS Disaster Response and lead administrator of the Soldiers—Amplified grants process, said, “Soldiers of the Cross is a donor-funded effort that provides one-time financial grants to LCMS church workers who are going through a financially challenging time.