Small Grants Spark Parish Mission: Warnham and St John’s Projects Awarded Funding
Two Sussex churches are among the latest to receive Small Grants for Mission, part of the diocesan Growth Strategy to encourage creativity and innovation in parish life. Warnham Church and St John the Evangelist, Brighton, have each been awarded a small grant to support new initiatives that help them reach their communities with the love of Christ.
The diocesan Mission fund offers Small Grants under £2K to supportprojects that help parishes explore mission in practical, local ways—from new forms of outreach and worship to events that build community links. By making the application process straightforward and accessible, the diocese hopes that more churches will apply and take advantage of the opportunity to explore new ideas and grow in confidence.
Encouraging Local Mission
For Warnham Church, the grant will enable a new outreach project designed to bring the village community together through a series of creative and interactive events hosted in the church. The idea grew out of a vision to use the church building more flexibly, offering opportunities for conversation, hospitality, and faith exploration.
At StJohn the Evangelist, the award will fund the further development of a community garden—a space designed to strengthen social connection, wellbeing, and environmental awareness. The garden will provide regular opportunities for local residents, including those without access to outdoor space, to meet, garden, enjoy nature together, and form new friendships.
Empowering Every Parish
AD Martin Lloyd Williams, Chair of the Mission Fund for small grants said: “We want every parish to know that smaller innovative projects can make a big difference. If your church has a simple idea that could help people encounter Jesus, we want to hear from you.”
The Mission Fund for small grants under £2,000, ensures that all parishes—large or small, rural or urban—can access support for new ideas.
How to Apply
The Fund is open to all parishes, and applications are welcomed throughout the year. The selection team is particularly keen to encourage projects that reach new people, explore different forms of worship, or respond creatively to local needs.
Churches interested in applying for the next round of small grants can find all the details, including criteria and application forms, on the diocesan website.
Guidelines and forms are available here:
