LAUNCH OF SCIENTISTS IN CONGREGATIONS 2025

Churches across the UK and Republic of Ireland can now apply for a grant of up to £10,000 to explore science and faith as a congregation.

The new round of Scientists in Congregations opens on 4 March until 30 April, and invites churches to submit an idea for a project which creatively brings together their faith and a scientific topic. With the aim of affirming science as a vocation and building confidence around scientific issues, successful congregations will have until the end of 2026 to spend the funds on events, activities, or resources which deepen the conversation around science and faith.

The programme has been running since 2016 and has supported more than 70 churches so far. Previous successful projects include a touring theatre production centred on AI and ethics; an Egyptian Coptic youth project on cosmology and history; a Pentecostal church project on mental wellbeing informed by biblical principles; and cathedral installations and science festivals exploring astronomy, creation care, and more.

ECLAS Project Director, Revd Prof David Wilkinson, said: “Our present reality of climate breakdown, rapid developments in AI, and global health challenges demands a Church which is competent and confident to engage with science and scientists.

“Through our Scientists in Congregations programme we want to affirm and celebrate science as a vocation and a gift to the Christian faith. These grants will enable churches to create spaces to ask questions, engage with exciting or emerging scientific issues, and benefit from the knowledge and experience of scientists in their communities. We are looking forward to seeing a range of creative submissions from all denominations that seek to deepen this conversation.”

There are eight grants of up to £10,000 each available. Apply or find further information here.