Low-cost Ways to Stay Fit During Winter

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.

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Exploring the Mind as it Relates to Your Finances

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.

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A Conversation with the Rev. Dr. Michael L. Sloan

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.

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Five Ways to Save Money on a Budget

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.

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Clergy Self-Care Includes Your Finances

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.

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Meaningful and Intriguing Summer Intern Work

By Emma Gun, Marketing and Communications Intern

Emma

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.

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