1. We had the best coverage.
2. When comparing apples to apples, our rates were close to each of these groups.
3. That year one of the groups faced 22% increase in rates. Another one kept rates low by taking benefits away from employees.
4. Everyone the committee talked with, was impressed with our system.

1. We have the best disability of any pool of employees.
2. According to Portico, we are 8 years older than the national average. 53 is our average age and that means higher rates.
3. Portico benefits are bundled. This means that you receive retirement, disability, death benefit, health when your congregation sponsors you with Portico. You can waive health coverage if you are covered by your spouse's employer's health plan or if you qualify for a subsidy on the state exchange. As a Portico plan sponsor, your congregation cannot purchase health insurance for you. At the theological conference, Terri Endres, our Portico regional representative, shared with me that since 2006 Portico's health plan rate increases have consistently been below the national market average. Until all of the health plans have advertised their 2015 rates, we will not know how Portico's rate increase will compare with the national average.

COLLEGE.

It's a complex topic for any student and their parents. You may be asking yourself, "What can I afford? What kind of college should I attend? What programs do I need?" lutherancolleges.org can help.

You and your parents are invited to attend college fairs and workshops. These events include workshops on college, career planning and on financial aid. Come and meet with representatives from individual colleges. For more information click here.

• Sunday, October 5 at Luther Seminary - Olson Center, St Paul
• Monday, October 6 at St. Andrew Lutheran, Eden Prairie 

Some of the most dynamic and innovative musical artists in the church are coming together to support the newly formed Center for Worship & Music Studies. A fundraising concert on November 2nd will feature Agape, Rachel Kurtz, Jonathan Rundman, John Kerns from the Spirit Garage, and the director of The Center, Jay Beech.

  "We are creating a new kind of worship and music training program, one that celebrates ALL the musical gifts of God's people," says Beech. "This includes everything from our rich hymn and choral traditions to the newest kinds of music from our own culture, as well as music from around the world."

"This concert will feature immensely gifted artists specializing in rock, hip-hop, and R&B styles, all of whom are driven by a deep faith and genuine love for the church. We are deeply grateful for their generosity and willingness to help grow this new ministry."

In addition to their individual performances, the musicians will also play some songs together. This may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see this very eclectic "super-group." The concert will begin at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 2nd, 2014, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Brooklyn Park. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door.

Click here to purchase ticket