About IAPS

The Institute for Advanced Pastoral Studies (IAPS) has been re-established by Christ Church Cranbrook as part of Lilly Endowment Inc.’s Thriving in Ministry initiative. This national initiative supports religious organizations in Metro Detroit and Metro Atlanta in strengthening programs that help pastors strategize for unique opportunities in their individual communities, deepen their leadership capacity, and navigate the challenges of congregational ministry with wisdom and resilience.

Originally founded by Christ Church Cranbrook in 1957, the Institute has a rich history of serving clergy. In 1981, it moved to Marygrove College in Detroit and later became part of the Ecumenical Theological Seminary. The re-established Institute has returned to its roots as a community-based effort designed to bring together intentionally ecumenical and diverse groups of clergy. Its purpose is to foster pastoral leadership, nurture collaborative networks, and provide the spiritual grounding needed to guide congregations faithfully and effectively in today’s complex world.

The renewed IAPS will also serve as a platform for positive social change in Metro Detroit and Metro Atlanta, equipping pastors to engage not only within their own communities but also across the broader civic and cultural dimensions of leadership.