Rev. Bruce G. Epperly, PhD
During the Lenten season, the Rev. Bruce Epperly shares about pruning and letting go of those things that can weigh us down or encumber us, so we may discern the difference between the optional and essential in our spiritual journeys.
For many of us, heading outside for a run, walk or bike ride during the cold months of winter is not very appealing. Yet how can we stay active and fit through this chilly season without paying for a pricey gym membership? Luckily, in our ever-connected world, there are an increasing number of ways to fit in fitness in the convenience of your home or with neighbors in your community, all at little to no cost to you.
In recent years, an alarming trend has emerged, linking the growing concerns about climate change with the rise in human anxiety levels. It’s called climate anxiety.
When it comes to finances, the human mind plays a significant role in shaping the decisions we make. Our mental state, past experiences, and emotions can often cloud our judgment and cause us to make impulsive decisions that can sabotage our financial goals.
Our financial decisions are often influenced by various cognitive biases that can lead to less-than-optimal financial outcomes. Let’s explore a few of them.
Rev. Bruce G. Epperly, PhD
And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road. (Matthew 12:2)
The Pension Boards interviews the Rev. Dr. Michael L. Sloan, Senior Pastor for The First Congregational Church in Spencerport, New York, to learn of his experiences with the Ministers’ Financial Vitality Initiative (MFVI) program, a three-year personal finance program designed to alleviate the debt burden of UCC authorized ministers. Rev. Sloan is also a participant in the Next Generation Leadership Initiative (NGLI). Both programs are administered by the United Church Board for Ministerial Assistance, the philanthropic arm of the Pension Boards.
Did you know that despite the significance of sight in our daily lives, many individuals neglect regular eye check-ups, potentially jeopardizing their eye health?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, of the estimated 93 million U.S. adults at high risk for vision loss, only half visited an eye doctor in the past 12 months.
The ability to consistently save money is a crucial aspect of financial stability and achieving long-term goals. As a United Church of Christ minister, lay member, or retiree, perhaps you are already living on a tight budget. But that doesn’t mean sacrificing your quality of life and enjoying the money you do have.
Consider exploring and practicing these five ways to saving money while you manage your current budget.
As spiritual anchors for your congregation or community, you can spend hours of personal sacrifice providing guidance, solace, and wisdom to those you serve in times of need.
However, a deep commitment and passion to your call should never come at the sacrifice of your own personal wellbeing—spiritually, emotionally, physically, and financially.
By Emma Gun, Marketing and Communications Intern
My summer was full of exciting opportunities when I served as the Marketing and Communications Intern for the Pension Boards’ Summer Internship Program. I strengthened my video editing and graphic design skills, broadened my understanding of data analysis, and met incredible people. These opportunities were most accessible in my contributions to the Capstone Project, which engaged summer interns to analyze, discuss, and explore how clergy member’s mental health might affect their personal financial decision-making.