Deadline: 04-Jan-2026
Applicants are now invited to submit applications for the Clergy and Religious Leaders Fellowship Program to critically examine constructs, current developments and issues that raise ethical concerns in their professions in contemporary settings in which they work.
FASPE Clergy Fellows examine the motivations and conduct of German and international clergy in enabling and supporting Nazi policies. FASPE then draws on these historical examples to help Fellows grasp their role and responsibility as individuals with influence in their communities and to lead them to identify and confront the ethical issues currently facing clergy of all faiths. Each year, FASPE Clergy awards fellowships to 13 to 16 individuals pursuing, or recent graduates of, graduate-level religious training at divinity schools, seminaries, chaplaincy programs or other related institutions.
Fellows spend two weeks in Berlin and Poland, where they visit key sites of Nazi history and participate in daily seminars led by specialized faculty. The program couples the power of place with academic rigor and many informal opportunities for creative exchange. FASPE draws on a large pool of applicants, whose diverse backgrounds and interests enrich discussions both inside and outside the seminar room. Clergy Fellows travel with Medical and Journalism Fellows, allowing them to broaden their understanding of the role of professionals over shared meals and activities and in several interdisciplinary seminars. FASPE Fellowships are fully funded so that financial ability does not affect participation.
The fellowship experience is designed to be both immersive and transformative. During the two weeks in Berlin and Poland, Fellows not only study history but also reflect deeply on contemporary ethical questions within their faith traditions and professional roles. The program environment encourages dialogue, cross-disciplinary learning, and collaboration across different faiths, broadening the perspectives of each participant.
Eligibility is open to graduate students and early-career professionals who are in the formative stages of developing their identity as religious leaders. Applicants may be enrolled in seminaries, divinity schools, rabbinical schools, chaplaincy programs, or other graduate-level theological training institutions. Early-career professionals with a relevant graduate degree, earned after May 2019, are also encouraged to apply. FASPE values diversity and inclusivity, welcoming applicants from all faith traditions, genders, political and socioeconomic backgrounds. Successful applicants are expected to demonstrate leadership potential, openness, and the maturity to engage responsibly in challenging discussions.
The application process is comprehensive and designed to evaluate academic readiness, leadership qualities, and potential contributions to the fellowship community. Components include an online form, a resume or CV, transcripts, responses to short essay questions, and two letters of recommendation. Recommendation letters are particularly important, as they provide insight into the applicant’s ability to contribute to the program’s rigorous and collaborative environment.
FASPE ensures that financial considerations do not hinder participation by covering all major costs, including roundtrip airfare from the US to Europe, travel within Germany and Poland, hotel accommodations, group meals, admission fees, program materials, and even pocket money for non-group meals. Travel costs to Berlin from other points of origin are also covered, making this fellowship fully accessible to all selected candidates. Application closes on 4 January 2026.
For more information, visit FASPE.
