By Nancy Sollenberger Heishman<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In light of the cancellation of this year\u2019s Annual Conference, the Pastoral Compensation and Benefits Advisory Committee is offering a recommendation rather than a delegate-approved decision. The committee is recommending a 0.5 percent (one half of one percent) increase to the 2021 recommended Minimum Cash Salary Table for Pastors.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The 2021 recommended minimum cash salary table and guidelines information for pastors and an explanation of the recommendation from the committee are available on the Church of the Brethren website, find links at www.brethren.org\/ministryoffice<\/a> .<\/p>\n\n\n\n The committee\u2019s letter to pastoral leaders states: \u201cThe committee spent considerable time talking about the needs of congregations and the needs of pastors. We understand that some congregations are feeling the effects of the current economy due to their states\u2019 requirements for meeting together during the pandemic. We also understand that pastors have been put in an untenable situation of having to figure out a technology-driven response in a short amount of time with an increased pressure to perform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWith these seemingly conflicting pressures upon the leadership of the church and the church body itself, we felt that a small increase in the COLA [cost of living adjustment] was in order. We want the congregations to know that we feel their angst about a salary increase. We also want the pastoral leaders to know that we appreciate their creativity and continued guidance that they give to their congregations.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n The committee includes Beth Cage, chair, from Northern Plains District; Deb Oskin, compensation practitioner, from Southern Ohio\/Kentucky District; Ray Flagg, laity representative, from Atlantic Northeast District; Terry Grove, district executive minister representative, from Atlantic Southeast District; and Dan Rudy, clergy representative, from Virlina District. Nancy Sollenberger Heishman is the liaison from the Office of Ministry. The documents can be found at www.brethren.org\/ministryoffice<\/a> .<\/p>\n\n\n\n