By Rev. Bruce G. Epperly, Ph.D.

Rabbi Hillel, an older contemporary of Jesus, is known for his wise counsel. Over the years, and especially now as a member of the Medicare generation, Hillel’s words invite me to join self-care and self-affirmation with care and affirmation of others.

Have you ever considered what will happen to your loved ones after you have left this earth? It may be uncomfortable to consider, or perhaps you are so busy you have not had a chance to consider it. In either scenario, if you are reading this article, you have time to implement simple steps that will make you feel better about your ability to protect their future.

Tend to Your Family and Yourself
Thirty-seven years ago, my middle child was born. Early on, it was clear that she had special needs but it wasn’t until kindergarten that she was diagnosed with a form of autism and intellectual disability. At that time, there were fewer resources for persons with special needs than there are now. Since our now-nine-year-old grandson was diagnosed with autism and ADHD, both his health care providers and his teachers have been able to provide him and his parents with a strong support system to enable him to reach his full potential.

Imagine your long-term financial plan is a road trip and your emergency fund as a spare tire that can keep you moving if you hit a pothole.

April 29, 2024

We are pleased to announce, the United Church Board of Ministerial Assistance (UCBMA) is officially the Grant Program Administrator of the Massachusetts Board of Ministerial Aid (BMA). This exciting partnership represents an important step forward in our commitment to serving pastoral leaders who serve or have served the UCC denomination in the historic Massachusetts Conference.

BMA and UCBMA share an overlapping mission to provide for the financial security of pastors serving the United Church of Christ (UCC). BMA provides assistance for those ministers who serve or have served in the historic Massachusetts Conference. UCBMA provides similar assistance for ministers across the denomination.