Benefits Regional Summit wraps its 10-city tour

Generational changes to the Benefits Plan of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) took effect Jan. 1, 2025. To help ministers and congregations understand how these benefits work together to support ministries, the Board of Pensions hosted the Benefits Regional Summit: Understanding the Value of the Benefits Plan. These events, which were open to all throughout the Church this past spring, focused on emerging healthcare trends and costs and how to maximize the high-value features of the Benefits Plan, which support and protect ministers as they live out their mission to serve the Church.

Host cities and regions were Denver, Chicago, Philadelphia, Dallas, Charlotte, Orlando, Atlanta, Los Angeles, the Bay Area, and Southwest Washington, and brought together individuals from all levels of the Church, including mid council leaders, pastoral leaders, personnel committee chairs, and church business administrators.

“We created these events to bring the Church together and help people better understand the full scope of the Benefits Plan and how its features are integrated to support ministry,” said the Reverend Dr. Douglas Portz, Vice President, Church Relations for the Board of Pensions. “We wanted to find out ‘What do people know about the plan? What don’t they know? Do they know how to access each of their benefits?’ We are grateful that these events were met with receptiveness, an eagerness to learn, and active participation amongst those in attendance.” 

Each event began with an opportunity for worship, with presenters reflecting on the Board’s scripturally-based A Theology of Benefits and the concept of experiencing shalom. Board of Pensions staff, including Church Consultants, served as speakers throughout the one and two-day events in each city.

In addition to learning about healthcare trends and costs, participants heard how the Board works to maintain the value of the Benefits Plan as a member of the Church Benefits Association. Board staff also shared stories of impact — including one minister’s story about receiving $92,000 of educational debt forgiveness, facilitated through EdAssist — and discussed dues incentive programs available to support innovative ministry solutions.

“I was able to witness firsthand the growing need for innovative ministries across our denomination,” said the Reverend Dr. Frank Clark Spencer, President of the Board of Pensions. “With generational shifts reshaping congregations and the way we worship, programs like our Shared Ministry initiative and 301 grants provide new ways to support these faith communities.

“The Board of Pensions continually looks for creative ways to support ministers in the Benefits Plan,” he added. “We hope these events have led to a greater understanding of the plan and the many benefits available to ministers who are a part of it.”

The Board of Pensions remains committed to caring for those who serve the Church by offering benefits that reflect Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) values. Continued dialogue surrounding the Benefits Plan and its goal to support wholeness in ministry remains at the forefront of the Board’s work. The Board thanks all of those who attended the Benefits Regional Summit and looks forward to gathering again in the near future.