Living the Faith Grants

The Living the Faith Grant Cycle is the Catholic Community Foundation's annual open application grant process for parishes in the Diocese of San Jose.

Geographic Scope: Parishes in the Diocese of San José, California

Eligible Applicants: Every parish in the Diocese of San José may submit one application

Focus Areas: Grants available in 7 categories:

• Evangelization - Reaching out to and dialoguing with those not practicing the Faith; Alpha courses; community outreach inviting to Mass
• Family Ministry - Parish-wide activities, retreats, speakers for families; marriage prep and support; Christian parenting resources; Natural Family Planning resources; financial assistance for family retreats
• Formation - Prayer, initiation, spiritual growth, education; RCIA ministry; parish retreats; small faith groups; faith formation programs; sacramental preparation; prayer toolkits
• Music - Workshops for choirs and musicians; updating music books and equipment; cantor training; adult and children's choir resources
• Parish Outreach - Corporal works of mercy including rental/utility assistance; food/grocery distribution; St. Vincent de Paul programs; outreach to homeless/vulnerable communities; medical services
• Worship - Welcoming and Eucharist; understanding the Mass; workshops on making people feel welcome; worship space resources
• Youth & Young Adults - Ages 11-35; retreats; conferences; service opportunities; social activities and pilgrimages; faith formation programs; leadership programs

Key Features:

• Two Applications per Parish (2026 onwards): One for six categories aligned with Pastoral Plan; one for Parish Outreach only
• Emphasis on Collaboration: Additional funding may be awarded for programs where multiple parishes work together
• Simplified Process: Final reports no longer required (though photos welcome)
• Multiple individuals may edit applications, but pastor must submit

Address: The Catholic Community Foundation, 777 North First Street, Suite 490, San Jose, CA 95112

Application Process

1. Access the Online Portal
   • Log into: https://cfoscc.spectrumportal.net/accounts/signin
   • Register if you have never logged in before
2. Submission Requirements
   • Submit TWO applications per parish (as of 2026)
   • One application for six categories (Evangelization, Family Ministry, Formation, Music, Worship, Youth & Young Adults)
   • One separate application for Parish Outreach category
   • Applications must be submitted online
   • Pastor must approve and submit the applications
   • Other staff/volunteers may add to/edit before pastor submission
3. Application Content
   • Describe programs and initiatives in selected grant categories
   • Include details about collaborative partnerships with other parishes if applicable
   • Explain how programs align with Diocesan Pastoral Plan
   • Provide narrative about program impact and needs
4. Submission Timeline
   • Application Opens: Monday, February 16
   • Application Closes: Friday, March 13
   • NO LATE APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED
5. Required Materials
   • Final reports no longer required
   • Foundation welcomes photos from programs (optional)