Recently the Clergy Compensation Task Force began reviewing our own compensation guidelines and how they compared to others. As they carried out their work and presented recommendations to the Synod Council, it was noted that changing our guidelines is one way we, as a synod, can take care of our pastors. In order to have leaders that are best equipped for ministry, we need to encourage that their whole family is cared for. We need to recognize that many of our pastors, in getting theological education, have also accrued significant student loan debt. We also need to say that the work of our pastors is of the utmost value to our faith communities and deserves appropriate wages. Learn more about the guidelines and find tips and resources for enacting these changes in your congregation here.

 

We give you thanks for all the saints who have died. Wipe away our tears of sorrow and mourning, and when we die, bring us to the church triumphant. We especially remember Deacon Daphne Heslop, Rev. E. Richard Urdahl, Rev. Jack Traugott, and Rev. Raymond Birkel. Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.