Apply Now for a Board of Pension Easement Grant!

Due to the changes to the benefits plan of the Board of Pensions, the Commission on Ministry is launching a pilot program to help congregations affected by these changes. While specific numbers depend upon the dues package, those churches who cover only the employee will realize significant savings under the new system. Employees (including pastors) who need coverage for a spouse or dependents may see an increase in annual cost. Employees who require coverage for BOTH spouse and dependents will likely see a significant cost increase.

The Commission on Ministry of Des Moines Presbytery is launching a pilot program to do two things:

1. Designating the annual investment income from the McCahon Fund for a BOP Family Medical Dues Easement Grant. Churches which need to cover employee, spouse, and dependents are welcome to apply for this grant. The money available is not enough to make up the difference for all employees affected by the change. However, it can help ease the financial burden on congregations.

2. Asking churches for whom these plan changes will result in savings, to contribute some or all of the savings they realize to the BOP Family Medical Dues Easement Grant, to help relieve the pressure on the churches hardest hit by the new fee structure. If several churches opt to contribute in this way, we could resolve the inequalities created by the plan changes.

To be eligible for this grant, the pastor or employee must be enrolled in the Board of Pensions with coverage for BOTH spouse and dependents for 2025, and a member of the Des Moines Presbytery. The application form below should be completed and submitted by the clerk of session. Application deadline is Friday, January 24, 2025.

Together, “we are the body of Christ, and each one of [us] is a part of it,” (1 Corinthians 12:27).