If you are a young adult under the age of 40 and are interested in ecumenism, consider applying for Churches Uniting in Christ’s (CUIC) Institute on Ecumenism.

CUIC is a covenant relationship among 10 Christian communions that have pledged to live more closely together in expressing their unity in Christ and combating racism. 

CUIC created the Institute on Ecumenism to help train people within the United States in the ecumenical and interreligious movements. Young adults chosen to participate will be trained in the history and theology of the ecumenical movement, the history and theology of the interreligious movement, current trends in both, and the connections among CUIC member communions. 

This cohort will represent the 10 CUIC member communions; applicants may be lay or clergy. Priority will be given to people in their 30s, but those marginally outside those ages should still consider applying. Those chosen must be able to commit to 10 months of training, be able to travel to two three-day, in-person gatherings in the United States, have access to a phone and the internet, and be willing to organize and lead a ministry project in their home context.  

Learn more about the course here.

To apply, fill out this application.

Applications are due to the Rev. Erin Betz Shank at erintlin@yahoo.com (with a copy to the Rev. Jean Hawxhurst at jhawxhurst@umc-cob.org) no later than June 30, 2025.