Rev. Bruce G. Epperly, PhD
African American spiritual leader Howard Thurman invites us to awaken to the angels in our midst and the better angels of our own nature.
Q&A with Andrew Russell, Director of Fixed-Income Investments
What does it take to become a responsible investor in today’s world? Do you think about making moral investment choices in ways that can impact the climate, our environment, or the way we utilize our natural resources?
Andrew Russell, Director of Fixed-Income Investments shares how investing in green bonds (bonds specifically earmarked to raise money for climate and environmental projects) are one way Pension Boards members can add their footprint to mitigate climate change.
By Travis Marks, CFP®, CFA®
Director, Generations University
A minister’s housing allowance (sometimes called a parsonage allowance or a rental allowance) is excludable from gross income for income tax purposes*. It is an amount officially designated (in advance of payment) as a housing allowance and in reasonable compensation for services rendered as a minister.
The Pension Boards-United Church of Christ (PBUCC) is deeply saddened by the ongoing crisis in the Israel-Palestine region, a situation that has caused immeasurable suffering for countless innocent victims of terror. In recent years, several PBUCC leaders have visited the region and witnessed firsthand the pain and hardship experienced by the individuals and communities affected. Our hearts are heavy by the violence that continues to unfold in the land held sacred by the three Abrahamic religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. We mourn the thousands of women, children, and men whose lives have been lost.
Rev. Bruce G. Epperly, PhD
Now thank we all our God,
with heart and hands and voices,
Who wondrous things has done,
in Whom this world rejoices;
Who from our mothers’ arms
has blessed us on our way
With countless gifts of love,
and still is ours today.
Building the resources you need for retirement is important for your future. At the Pension Boards, we understand that access to knowledgeable service representatives and easy-to-use tools are essential to help you manage your savings so you can reach your retirement goals.
Our commitment to providing the best possible customer service is why we have partnered with Fidelity, the new recordkeeping provider for the Lifetime Retirement Income Plan for the UCC.
Rev. Bruce G. Epperly, PhD
Wednesday, October 4 marks the Feast of St. Francis, the patron saint of the environmental movement. During my time as a congregational pastor, I held a Blessing of the Animals on the Sunday afternoon nearest to Francis’ feast day. People brought dogs of all breeds and sizes, cats in pet carriers, and photos of their companion animals to be blessed.
Rev. Bruce G. Epperly, PhD
I don’t know about you, but despite the fact that ministry and congregational life are twelve-month enterprises, every September was a new beginning in the church year for me. Old-school congregations proclaimed the first day of the church year “Rally Day.” Others described the Sunday after Labor Day as “A Day of New Beginnings.” This year, the UCC is inviting people to proclaim “Rejoice in our Welcome” on September 10.
Life, Passion, and Mission: Pension Boards’ Staff
Brian R. Bodager, President and Chief Executive Officer
Outside of the Pension Boards, family is very important. Spending time with my children and grandchildren is my greatest passion and top priority. Travel is also a passion. In the next year, we plan to travel to Northern Europe and to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands for pleasure. Business travel will take me to Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Illinois, and several other states. Travel to the Middle East to visit partners is being considered. Additionally, I am a golfer and tennis player, always working on my skills. Recently, I took up pickleball as a substitute for tennis.
Baheru Mengistu
PBUCC Pension Counselor
Like planning for other major phases of life, planning your ideal retirement is going to be affected by elements beyond your control. Thankfully, there are several decisions and steps you can take that are directly in your control.