The Diocese' first ever parish health grant effort became a reality over the summer of 2008. After receiving numerous proposals from mission communities and parishes a review team of five clergy and five lay persons reviewed the proposals and awarded grants totaling over $9600 to six parishes

• St Nicholas parish Kenosha WI -- feed the hungry in the neighborhood via the creation of raised "enabling gardening beds"

• St. Raphael Mission, Quincy IL --  develop, record and place radio spots about the Orthodox faith.

• Holy Cross Mission, Chisago City MN - bookstore and information booth

• St Mark's Rochester MI --Structured approach to strengthening their parish's ability to communicate the Orthodox faith and worship to those who enter their doors.

• Ss Cyril and Methodius Milwaukee WI - Liturgical Arts Workshop

• Holy Ascension Albion MI - This project focuses on parish education and Christian formation. The project will organize a collection Orthodox audi files (talks, music, etc.) acquire MP# players, preload the players with Orthodox content and provide players to parishioners along with training.