It is not easy for small congregations to provide adequate salaries for full-time pastors. It is interesting to note in the survey that we have been looking at that clergy understand the challenge and recognize that most of their congregations are doing what they can under the circumstances. According to the survey:
Most consider their present compensation package “fair and reasonable” given the circumstances of the congregation (“yes, definitely,” 24%; “yes,” 36%; “yes, probably,” 24%). Similar percentages are “very satisfied” (16%), “satisfied” (48%), or “somewhat satisfied” (27%) with their compensation package. (Note that the survey asked about “family income” only, so there is no information on the dollar amount of each pastor’s compensation package.)
Many congregations and pastors have developed some creative ways to ease the financial stress.
More than one in three respondents receive reimbursement from their congregation or presbytery for medical or prescription deductibles (37%), and similar numbers (39%) have a flexible spending account for paying out-of-pocket medical costs. Somewhat fewer have a long-term care insurance policy (21%). Flexible spending accounts for paying for medical expenditures and long term insurance policies are ways that congregations can help without altering their overall budget.
Many clergy have found it helpful to attend a financial spending seminar. The Presbyterian Board of Pension offers some excellent help in this area but there are also private financial planners that can be worth the cost. The survey suggests that a number of clergy are seeking help in this manner.
Most respondents have attended a financial planning seminar, including a majority who have attended one offered by the Board of Pensions (51%). An overlapping 40% have taken such a seminar from a personal professional financial planner.
There is a reason that Jesus talked more about wealth than any other subject. Our response to financial issues can be a significant barrier in our financial journey. At the same time, if we see our use of resources as part of our faith journey, it can also be an appropriate witness.
