2025 Highlands Presbytery Manse Grants
History of the Manse Fund Grant
In 2021 the Manse of the Stillwater Presbyterian Church was sold. A condition on the deed, from 1892, required the money be returned to the people who originally contributed to the manse fund. The task to find living relatives of the original 30+ families who contributed was impractical, so the courts determined that the proceeds from the sale could be used to provide assistance for minister housing in the Presbytery of the Highlands. The proceeds were invested with the New Covenant Trust, and income is distributed based on the Foundation’s formula of 4.25% per year of a rolling average balance.
Every year, The Property and Insurance Team determines how much money will be available from the Manse Fund; in 2025, it was $12,000. These funds are used for matching grants to support energy efficient improvements for manses within the presbytery.
The earth is the Lord‘s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein ~Psalm 24:1
Matching Grants for Energy Efficient improvements for the Manse
Beginning in December, the Presbytery informs all of its congregations that applications will be received. Grant applications are available online, and must be submitted by the stated deadline; awards are made shortly thereafter.
The manse must be used by a pastor of the requesting church. Congregations in the process of seeking a new pastor may also apply.
Energy Efficient improvements may include new appliances, energy efficient windows or doors, energy efficient air conditioning or heating, insulation or other such types of improvements.
Priority is given to congregations under 150 members.
2025 Manse Grants were awarded to
First Presbyterian Church of Berkshire Valley: Replacement of damaged windows with high efficiency windows;
First Presbyterian Church of Boonton: Replacement of 14-year-old refrigerator and 13-year-old electric stove with Energy Star appliances;
First Presbyterian Church of Hackettstown: Replacement of older windows with high efficiency windows;
Hildale Park Presbyterian Church: Replacement of roof shingles, chimney flashing, vent boots, and installation of a power vent fan;
Kirkpatrick Memorial Presbyterian Church: Installation of energy efficient storm windows;
Lower Valley Presbyterian Church: Replacement of older windows with high efficiency windows;
Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church: Conversion of the 20-year-old oil-fired manse boiler heating system to a new high efficiency gas-fired system.
