The coronavirus pandemic and the economy are moving in opposite directions: as the virus spreads, the economy contracts. Only when the virus is contained and lockdowns abate can we work our way back to economic growth. There is, however, another understanding of economics that is already guiding us in hope-filled directions.

The Pension Boards has received several inquiries about the recently- issued legislation and guidance concerning COVID-19, especially provisions bearing on benefits, church employees, including clergy and lay workers, and health plans. We are in the process of evaluating the specific impact of these provisions on our benefit plans and for our members. We will keep you updated through these communications and on the Pension Boards website (www.pbucc.org).

Financial markets have been weak in 2020, with the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index (S&P 500) at -20% year-to-date. (As a reminder, this follows a +31.5% performance in 2019).

During this time when the Pension Boards physical offices are closed:

March 18, 2020

In this Q&A, the Pension Boards outlines how we continue to manage our business through the current situation related to COVID-19. We want to assure you that we are monitoring the situation, responding quickly, collaborating internally and externally, and that all our management practices and process are intact.