Scholarship Program
The Soapstone United Methodist Church Scholarship Program supports graduating seniors who are active in the life and ministries of our church as they pursue higher education. Scholarships are awarded in recognition of faithful discipleship, service to others, and Christian character, reflecting our commitment to nurturing spiritual growth and lifelong learning.
The Soapstone United Methodist Church (SUMC) Scholarship is established to recognize and support active church members pursuing higher education. Scholarship recipients are selected based on faith involvement, service to others, and character.
The program offers annual scholarships to eligible active members, utilizing funds held in the Soapstone United Methodist Church Scholarship Fund. The total amount available for distribution each year is determined by the Scholarship Committee and may vary based on donations and other available funds.
The Scholarship Committee is responsible for soliciting and reviewing applications, managing interviews, and selecting scholarship recipients. The scholarship fund will not be depleted below ten percent (10%) of its total balances as of April 31, 2026. The committee’s goal is to always maintain a principal amount in the fund.
Scholarships are awarded without regard to the accredited school attended, financial need, academic achievement, or field of study.
SUMC will collect a Special Offering through March 15, 2026. You can give now here.
From March 15-22, we’re hosting a March Madness Read-A-Thon to support the Soapstone United Methodist Church Scholarship Program. It’s simple, fun, and open to all ages. Read more here.
Eligibility
Applicants must be:
- Be an active, confirmed member of Soapstone United Methodist Church
- Be a high school senior
- Submit a completed application by the stated deadline
An active church member is defined as a person listed as a Professing Member of Soapstone United Methodist Church in Raleigh, NC, as recorded in the church membership book, and who actively participates in the ministries of the church.
RENEWALS:
Scholarship awards are not automatically renewable. Students must reapply each year and may receive scholarships for up to a total of five years. Scholarship amounts are not guaranteed to remain the same from year to year and will depend on the funds available and the number of eligible applicants.
Students reapplying for a scholarship must be eligible to return to his/her educational institution for the upcoming academic year.
ISSUANCE OF SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS:
Scholarship funds will be issued directly to the student on Soapstone’s Senior Sunday. Recipients are expected to be good stewards of these funds and to return any unused monies.
FINAL AND COMPLETE DISCRETION:
The Scholarship Committee shall have full and final discretion to determine scholarship recipients and award amounts. Meeting eligibility requirements does not guarantee the receipt of a scholarship.
FORMS:
The Scholarship Committee shall provide application and renewal forms to be completed by scholarship applicants. Find the Scholarship Application here.