FAQs

Rural Church

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Q: What constitutes a rural United Methodist church?

A: A church located in a community of fewer than 1,500 people as determined by the most recent U.S. Census. Such churches are eligible beneficiaries (see list) of the Endowment.

Q: Why does the Endowment restrict its church grants only to United Methodist churches in rural communities in North Carolina?

A: Mr. Duke was raised in a Methodist family, and he saw and appreciated the impact that churches and their pastors had on the lives of rural North Carolina communities. The Dukes were strong supporters of the church and of its various activities and understood that in rural areas, churches were often the strongest and most effective community institutions.

Q: Does the Endowment award grants to other Methodist denominations, such as Evangelical Methodist or African Methodist Episcopal churches?

A: No. In keeping with Mr. Duke's instructions, rural church grants can be made only to United Methodist churches.

Q: How do retired United Methodist pastors apply for pension grants from the Endowment?

A: No application is needed. These grants are made annually to eligible pastors and their families on record with the North Carolina Annual Conference or the Western North Carolina Annual Conference.

Q: Will the Rural Church Division help start a child day-care or after-school program?

A: Yes, as long as the program is operated by an eligible beneficiary (see list).