Author
Ylisse C. Bess
Interfaith chaplain, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Ylisse C. Bess is an interfaith hospital chaplain at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Bess, whose ministry is informed by pastoral theology and feminist/womanist theologies, works at the intersections of faith, culture and healthcare. She holds a bachelor's degree in sociology and religious studies from Gonzaga University; an M.Div. from Boston University School of Theology; and has completed four units of clinical pastoral education at Massachusetts General Hospital.
Apply for a Vital Worship, Vital Preaching Grant
Vital Worship, Vital Preaching Grants from the Calvin Institute for Christian Worship are designed for worshiping communities. These grants allow a wide range of Christian worshiping communities to focus on projects that connect public worship with Christian discipleship and faith formation. Funding awards range from $8,000 to $25,000.
The grants support year-long projects that show promise in fostering renewed or strengthened worship practices within worshiping communities in the United States or Canada. Vital Worship, Vital Preaching Grants for teacher-scholars are also available. Applications for the October 15 deadline will open on July 15, 2026.
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