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.