1855 Knollcrest Circle SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546-4402 USA
On the campus of Calvin University
© 2026 Calvin Institute of Christian Worship
CICW has awarded Vital Worship, Vital Preaching Grants for over 20 years to teacher-scholars and worshiping communities in 45+ states and provinces and across 40+ denominations and traditions—including Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Pentecostal, non-denominational, and other Protestant communities.
While worship styles and practices vary greatly across these traditions, the grant projects typically explore at least one of CICW’s ten core convictions related to worship. Explore the hundreds of projects we’ve funded across both streams of the program.
To explore using drama in worship for biblical proclamation through studying scripture texts, discussing communication methods, and partnering with local congregations.
To equip five congregations to incorporate Vertical Habits into their worship life by offering workshops that combine theater, scripture, personal/theological reflection and worship traditions and by providing follow-up meetings and a newsletter that will create community, support and an exchange of ideas among the participating churches.
To introduce liturgical dance and movement into worship in their racially, economically and educationally diverse urban congregation.
To create contextually appropriate worship opportunities for African American young adults through the training of young leaders and the development of a Praise Dance Ministry.
To train students in leading congregational singing, presenting liturgy and Scripture and performing drama during services.
To equip young people to present Biblical readings, scenes and readings which are appropriate for worship and to provide training in the purpose and meaning of worship.
To share with participants at regional CITA conferences and meetings for pastors and church leaders the results of prior exploration and discussion on the role of theater in worship.
To sponsor a Worship Arts Conference, including the areas of drama ministry, vocal and instrumental music, and other related worship arts.
To conduct an ecumenical workshop in liturgical dance to train leaders in the use of liturgical dance in worship, and to hold a liturgical dance concert
To plan a two-day Sacred Dance Conference too teach the principles and guidelines for using dance in worship
