The Assistance Program — the heart of the Board

Greetings, We are living through extraordinary times. Many of us are still worshiping remotely, working remotely, and, if we gather, doing so at the recommended distance. As the months have rolled by, I cannot imagine that any one of us has not experienced a range emotions behind our masks. Yes, COVID-19 has changed life for all of us. But it has been especially harsh on those who were struggling financially before the crisis. The Board of Pensions has stepped up to lend support where we could. We have provided dues relief and dues deferrals to church and affiliated employers as well as financial assistance to aid in their continued support of ministers and employees. This effort has totaled approximately $10 million. But it is through the Assistance Program of the Board of Pensions that the wider Church continues to meet the mounting needs of Benefits Plan members, surviving spouses, and retirees. This program is the heart of the Board. It is our connectional Church at its best, providing grants made possible by generations of generous Presbyterians. Today, it is as important as it has ever been. In 2019, those in need received almost $8 million through the Assistance Program. This included Minister Educational Debt Assistance and Sabbath Sabbatical Support for ministers and, for all Benefits Plan members, Emergency Assistance, Adoption Assistance, and Transition-to-College Assistance. Retirees and surviving spouses received Income and Housing Supplements and help paying for dental work and hearing aids.  Perhaps you need assistance or know someone who does. Or maybe you are in a position to make a gift. The Assistance Program receives 50 percent of the Christmas Joy offering as well as gifts made directly to the program. Fully 100 percent of every gift goes back out to support active and retired ministers, employees, and surviving spouses. So, if you are able to open your hand during this time of crisis, I urge you to consider a gift to the Assistance Program. These gifts are an expression of our care for one another, and there is a particular need now, for those of us who can, to show such care.    Grace and peace, The Reverend Frank Clark Spencer President, The Board of Pensions of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)