Faith - Community - Support.
Empowering Churches in Rural and Small-Town Communities
Through Faith, Foundation, and Formation, we offer resources, education, and spiritual support to help churches grow and serve their communities.
Our Vision
The Institute for Rural & Small-Town Ministry & Leadership empowers churches to serve future generations
Our Mission
Hood Empowers is dedicated to strengthening North Carolina’s rural and small-town churches by addressing their unique challenges and opportunities. Through our three pillars—Foundation, Formation, and Faith—we equip churches with the tools they need to serve their communities, grow spiritually, and create lasting impact.
Our Three Pillar Approach
Faith, Foundation, and Formation
Faith
Strengthening Spiritual Growth and Community Engagement
We support churches in deepening their spiritual practices and
expanding their outreach. From discipleship programs to community
initiatives, we help churches become centers of faith and hope.
Foundation
Building a Strong Base for Sustainable Growth
We empower churches to strengthen initiatives and programs to
help churches overcome challenges and excel. We ensure churches
have what they need to serve their communities effectively.
Formation
Empowering Leaders Through Education and Training
Our continuing education programs, workshops, and academic certificate programs equip clergy and laity with the skills and knowledge they need to lead with confidence and creativity.
Transforming Churches,
Transforming Communities
Through Hood Empowers, we aim to support churches across North
Carolina’s rural and small-towns
Our Initiative
HoodEmpowers is part of the Ministry in Rural Areas and Small-Town Initiative funded by the Lilly Endowment. In 2024, the Lilly Endowment granted Hood Theological Seminary to support and enhance the vibrancy of Christian congregations serving rural areas and small towns. Through this collaborative effort, we aim to ensure churches in these areas will be a witness to the world and that the lower lights will continue to burn in rural and small-town churches.
Academic Certificate Program
Funding and Resources
Continuing Education and Workshops
Community and Spiritual Support
How We Empower Churches
Continuing Education and Workshops
Quarterly workshops, seminars, and coaching sessions designed to address the unique challenges of rural and small-town ministry.
Academic Certificate Program
A specialized program for students and pastors focusing on rural and small-town ministry, with financial support available.
Funding and Resources
Mini-grants to support church initiatives, along with a comprehensive repository of resources for rural ministry.
Community and Spiritual Support
Programs to address social ills, support aging populations, and engage with youth and immigrants.
Want to volunteer?
Join Hood Empowers
Whether you’re a church leader, donor, or volunteer, there are many ways to participate in Hood Empowers. Together, we can help rural and small-town churches thrive.
