Journey Group Program

Participants in the Journey Group program  journey, for a time, with a supportive small group of other clergy around similar topics, identities, themes, and/or interests. This is a wonderful way to meet other Alliance clergy, connect with others seeking a space to be outside of their ministry setting, and become a part of an exciting program that both provides resources to our clergy and fosters opportunities for our clergy to share their insight, resources, and presence with each other.

We want to invite you to consider becoming a part of the Alliance’s CAIRN Journey Group program for 2021-2022. We are excited to build on the success of our 2020-2021 pilot program as we continue to learn, grow, and support one another.

You can access the online application here.

A general framework for the groups will be provided to all participants, with the understanding that flexibility is needed and each group will have their own specific goals, hopes, and circumstances during the process. These activities can include virtual or in-person gatherings with your Journey Group (typically once a month); occasional check-in or communication (via social media, text, e-mail); participation in a group retreat space (online or in-person) with your group; and collaborating and sharing feedback on the program.

Journey Group applicants will have a chance to either form their own group of 5-7 clergy/ministry leaders or apply to be a part of a group based on a topic, identity, meeting preference, or other area of interest from across the larger applicant pool. Each Journey Group will have a leader (a “guide”) to be the main point-of-contact and facilitator for the group.

To read more, check out our Journey Group FAQ page: (see below)

To apply to the Journey Group program, complete the online application:

APPLICATION – 2021-2022 Journey Groups

Online applications are due by Monday, August 16, 2021, at midnight (your local time).

Journey Group FAQ

Who can apply for the Journey Group program?

Any Alliance clergy/ministry leader–or any clergy/ministry leader who has an interest in the ministry and work of the Alliance. No membership required! 

We hope to have participants from various ministry settings, life stages, backgrounds, and interests. Whether you are full-time, part-time, taking time away, retired, multi-vocational, in school, or in between settings, we encourage you to apply if you feel like a support space with other pastors and leaders in ministry can be helpful for you during this time and/or if  you can help support your peers as well.

Can seminary students apply for this program?

Yes, seminary students are encouraged to apply for this program. If there is enough interest for a seminary student Journey Group, one can be organized. Seminary students can also be part of a group around a topic/theme that fits their ministry setting and interest(s).

Is there a fee to be a part of this program?

No, this program is free. We do encourage participants to support the work of the Alliance through a financial gift, if they are able. This is not a requirement or expectation to participate in the program though.

Will each Journey Group receive funding for activities and programs?

We have a small amount of funding that will be available for groups during the program. This can help provide reimbursement for books and some other similar expenses during the year.. We are also providing an honorarium for the group leader/guide.

What is the time commitment for the Journey Groups?

For this program, we are asking participants to commit to be a part of the program with a one-year commitment (through Summer 2022). We expect to have an option for each group to continue beyond this time, if they choose to do so.

During this one-year period, the time commitment each month is really up to each group. A general framework will be provided, but each group will have flexibility to achieve their goals and needs during this time. We anticipate that you will see this time as something to look forward to, instead of a burden.

Can I form my own Journey Group?

Yes, you have the option to organize your own group of 5-7 clergy for a Journey Group. Each prospective participant in the group will need to apply before the deadline and note their interest in your specific group on their application. Additionally, please note if your group has a particular topic/theme/interest.

I’m interested in being a guide/leader for a Journey Group. What should I do?

Please note your interest on the application form. We will provide additional information to each group guide/leader after the groups are organized. The guide will be the main point-of-contact for Alliance staff and the CAIRN leadership regarding your Journey Group and will help facilitate the group logistics.

What is the timeline for the application period?

The application timeline for the 2021-2022 cycle is below:

  • July 2021 – Applications Available
  • August 16, 2021 (by midnight, local time) – Applications Due
  • September 2021 – Notification of tentative Journey Groups
  • End of September 2021 (TBA) – Journey Group Program Online Gathering 

If you have additional questions about the program or would like additional information, send an e-mail to info@allianceofbaptists.org