Lilly Endowment aims to deepen and enrich the religious lives of American Christians by supporting congregations and their leadership. It focuses on ensuring congregations have leaders who are wise, faithful, and well-prepared, helps Christians draw on their theological traditions to face contemporary challenges and live their faith fully, and fosters public understanding of religion's role in civic well-being.
The Lilly Endowment Clergy Renewal Programs, managed by the Center for Pastoral Excellence at Christian Theological Seminary, offer National and Indiana Clergy Renewal Programs. These programs allow pastors to take a brief break from the daily obligations of parish life for a period of renewal and reflection. These periods are designed for spiritual exploration, not as vacations, enabling participants to drink from God’s life-giving waters and regain enthusiasm and creativity for ministry.