Rural Black Church Equality Fellowship
The Rural Black Church Equality Fellowship (RBCEF) is a leadership program supporting Black faith leaders in rural and small-town communities to advance LGBTQ+ inclusion within their congregations.
Moving Faith Toward Pride
2027 Application
Deadline: February 5, 2027
Building on years of impact as Pride in the Pews, Toward Pride launched RBCEF to extend this work into underfunded and often overlooked regions. In partnership with the Black Church Studies Program at Louisville Seminary, the fellowship provides funding, tools, and community to help leaders drive meaningful change.
Through a confidential, cohort-based model, fellows receive financial and curricular support to strengthen their advocacy and implement initiatives that foster care, belonging, and equity, while building bridges across diverse faith communities.
FAQs
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Yes. If your congregation is located in a rural or small-town context and Black leadership is central to your church, we encourage you to apply.
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Yes. We welcome both LGBTQ+ leaders and allies who are committed to advancing inclusion and care within their congregations.
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Absolutely. This fellowship is designed to support leaders navigating complexity and building bridges. If your church leadership supports your participation, we invite you to apply.
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Yes. RBCEF is a private and confidential fellowship designed to create a safe space for honest dialogue, learning, and growth.
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Fellows must participate in all virtual sessions and attend the in-person gathering. Consistent participation is required to remain in the program.
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No. Grants are awarded to congregations, not individuals.