Are you attending a rural United Methodist Church? Do you pastor a rural United Methodist Church? Is your church making a difference in your community?
The Rural Church Fund (Key Taylor Award) honors the faithful mission and impact of rural congregations across the North Carolina Conference. Established in 1958 through the vision of Rev. Key W. Taylor, this endowment continues to support and lift up rural church ministry today.
Sponsored through the United Methodist Foundation, the Key Taylor Award lifts up the mission and ministry of rural congregations by recognizing the impact of one exemplary rural church. In 2026, $1,854 will be awarded from the Rural Church Endowment.
We encourage rural churches across the conference to apply or nominate a congregation whose ministry is making a meaningful difference.
Nominations are due April 17, 2026.