John J. Gleason Scholarship Fund

Chaplains and Pastoral Counselors Ministers Council Chapter
American Baptist Churches USA


The John J. Gleason Scholarship Fund is named for a former director of the Office of the Chaplaincy of American Baptist Churches USA. The purpose of the fund is “to promote and encourage clinical pastoral development among persons with the American Baptist Churches.” The goal of the fund is to provide financial assistance to

  • Students who are actively pursuing their seminary education and who are committed to a vocation as either a Chaplain or a Pastoral Counselor

  • Seminary graduates interested in pursuing a vocation as either a chaplain or pastoral counselor

  • Chaplains or pastoral counselors who are expanding their professional competencies

Eligibility requirements

  • Membership in an American Baptist Church

  • Enrollment in seminary with at least a 3.0 grade point average (on a 4.0 scale) or have completed seminary education

  • Membership, or striving toward membership, in ACPE, AMFT, APC, or a similar professional organization

Grant details

  • Up to $500 per calendar year

  • Sent directly to the financial aid office of the recipient’s educational institution

Application process

  • Download a digital application form available here

  • Complete the application form thoroughly

  • Obtain a letter of recommendation from the applicant’s pastor, regional executive minister, or both

  • Submit all materials—completed application and recommendation letter(s)—between January 15, 2027, and April 15, 2027:

Chaplains and Pastoral Counselors Chapter
Ministers Council
921 Eagles Nest Drive
Byram, MS 39272
601-832-7012
bwchaplin80@yahoo.com

  • Decisions will be shared by June 1, 2027