What is an APCE Network?

APCE Networks are affinity groups that strengthen your ministry and Christ’s Church!

What kinds of affinity groups can be considered as Networks?
  • Groups organized around ages and stages served
  • Groups of people who serve in similar sized congregations
  • Groups of people who serve in various geographic regions of the country
  • Groups of people who are at significant points in their careers
  • Groups of people who are volunteers in Christian formation ministries
  • Groups who are serving in the same denomination
  • Groups with common roles or passions, e.g., clergy couples; associate pastors whose primary portfolio is faith formation; neurodiverse-serving ministries; crafters; book groups; ???
  • Networks arise organically from within the APCE membership and are not created “top-down” by APCE leadership! People may join as many Networks as their interests and calendars allow.
What is required of a Network?
  • Share APCE’s mission, vision and values
  • Relate to at least one of APCE’s guiding words: Connect, Enrich, Empower, Sustain
  • Submit an application through the Connect Mission Team to become an APCE Network, via the application form to be posted on the APCE website by August 31, 2025.
  • Designate a liaison to the Connect Mission Team; the liaison must be a current member of APCE (the liaison does not serve on the Connect Mission Team)
  • After the application is reviewed and approved, the Network-designated liaison meets with a Connect Mission Team member twice a year to continue Network status
  • Provide an annual report to the Connect Mission Team detailing activities, membership, officers (if applicable), challenges and joys
  • Particular Networks may emerge and dissolve as needed
How will APCE support Networks, and how will funding work for Networks?
  • Each Network will have an assigned Connect Mission Team member through whom they will be kept current about what is happening with APCE, and opportunities that might benefit their Networks
  • Funding opportunities as noted above
  • Maintenance of Network member lists, which will enable updated email lists via APCE’s master list, and will also allow APCE to reach out to Networks with relevant opportunities
  • APCE will endeavor to provide a space at the APCE Annual Event for Networks to be visible and to give attendees an opportunity to affiliate with a Network if they so choose
  • Sharing of Network-sponsored events and participation opportunities, given that relevant information is shared with APCE (responsibility for sharing with APCE is the Network’s)
  • Grants will be available through the Connect Mission team by application.  Not all Networks will involve activities needing funds.