The Pension Boards 2025 Annual Report Because of Ministry…Community Thrives
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A Message from the President and CEO, and Chair of the Board of Trustees Listening, Learning, and Leading as a Partner in Ministry
At the heart of the Pension Boards’ mission is a simple but profound belief: a just and thriving ministry is essential to creating a just world for all. As ministry professionals—whether clergy, lay workers, or caregivers—you live out this vision through your dedication, compassion, and commitment to God and service.
Our role is to ensure you can focus on your call without carrying the weight of unnecessary burdens. By establishing a strong foundation—financially, physically, emotionally, and spiritually—you can serve our UCC communities and devote more of your energy to the mission of the church more confidently and with knowing that you are supported and secure.
As we move forward with new leadership, we are taking the time to pause, listen, and learn—acknowledging the needs and challenges our ministers face today within the UCC.
We’ve heard the concerns. What we have witnessed and understood is this: You are resilient. You thrive. You carry on. But you are not alone.
President and Chief Executive Officer
Chair of the Board of Trustees
At General Synod 35 in Kansas City, Pension Boards staff were honored to take the stage with President and CEO David A. Klassen, who shared our commitment, as your partner in ministry, to walk with you every step of the way.
Our “Because of Ministry” Synod theme, spotlighted the Pension Boards key benefit offerings—Ministerial Resources, Health and Retirement, and Stewardship and Legacy, paving the way for ministry outcomes for those we serve.
We hosted two workshops:
Environmental Stewardship through Responsible Investing
Underscored faith-driven sustainability and highlighted how investments can be a powerful way to live out our faith, care for creation, and build a future rooted in justice and hope.
Engaging People of Call to Service
Explored solutions to engage intergenerational ministers into service via succession planning, leadership development, and innovative approaches for providing just and equitable compensation.
Living Stones—Hearts Alive and Into the Deep at General Synod 35
We offered a sacred space for those who wished to reflect on the themes of hope, peace, joy and love, which National Ministries highlighted in this article. The engagement experience encouraged deep thoughts and prayers for those that matter most in our UCC community. READ MORE.
Evercall—Reflecting on the Demands of Ministry in Depth
Our inaugural issue of Evercall magazine, Laying Strong Foundations for a Just and Thriving Ministry, A General Synod 35 Edition, a companion piece to our ministry resource center (www.pbucc.org/evercall), explores the foundations needed to build a ministry that is lasting, life-giving, and aligned with God’s call.
Find practical tools, meaningful reflections, and expert insights to help you align your faith, finances, and wellbeing, so you can lead and serve with confidence.
Retirement Security in a Changing World: Why Collective Plans Still Matter
Retirement planning has shifted from guaranteed pensions to individual risk through 401(k)-style plans, leaving ministry professionals exposed to market volatility and the danger of outliving their savings.
In contrast, the UCC Lifetime Retirement Income Plan, a 403(b)-church plan, pools resources to provide stable, lifelong income and unique benefits for ministers. As people live longer and face rising uncertainty, this community-based, stewardship-driven plan offers essential security for those who have devoted their lives to service.
The Pension Boards is committed to helping you build a secure and sustainable financial future, so you can retire with dignity.
"Retirement planning isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people. It’s about ensuring that those who have dedicated their lives to service can retire with dignity and peace of mind. "
—Travis Marks, CFP®, CFA®
Director
Generations University
Evercall—Going Deeper: Planning Every Season for Every Call
Our latest edition of Evercall: Seasons of Calling: Rethinking Retirement for a Life of Impact, A UCC Lifetime Retirement Income Plan Edition, explores views on retirement and practical ways the Pension Boards can help you steward your legacy and secure lifetime retirement income, while bringing you inspiration that will help you consider retirement as redirected purpose for your life and those around you.
Evercall is for every call. Be inspired, be informed, and be strengthened in your seasons of calling. Share it with your ministry colleagues.
Be a Part of the Evercall Community
Sign up for the latest content, news, and exclusive webinar invitations from the Pension Boards. Be the first to know about new initiatives and join us in supporting and sustaining ministry. Don't miss out—subscribe today and be part of the Evercall community!
Because of Ministry, the Pension Boards-United Church of Christ (PBUCC) Invests in a Strong Foundation to Support Those Engaged in the Life of the Church.
Retirement & Health Benefits
Financial security and healthcare access help secure a solid foundation for those who serve
Ministerial Resources
From emergencies to educational needs, a dependable partner in ministry is essential
Stewardship & Legacy
Sustainable growth and lasting influence ensure the longevity and impact of ministry
RETIREMENT & HEALTH BENEFITS A Strong Foundation that Frees People of Call to Focus on Ministry
Hiring is hard. Training is harder. In churches and health and human service organizations, turnover affects the people who rely on familiar faces for care and community. One of the best ways to retain good employees, and demonstrate their value to your organization is by offering robust employee benefits.
A 2024 MetLife Employee Benefit Trends Study found that 82% of employees say the benefits package an employer offers plays an important role in their decision to remain on the job. At the same time, Gallup reports that replacing an employee can cost anywhere from one-half to two times their annual salary. When you compare the cost of turnover to the cost of offering benefits, the investment quickly pays for itself.
"…organizations with strong benefits experience 26% lower turnover compared to those with limited offerings. That kind of stability protects the organization from disruption and helps ensure the mission continues with strength."
—Stephanie Serratelli
Program & Benefits Manager
Going Deeper: Where Pension Counseling Makes Its Greatest Impact
Why meaningful connection helps to build confidence in retirement security.
I am so happy to have talked with you. Thanks for all the resources and information. I will be working on all of this… I appreciate knowing there's someone "in my corner” — truly.
The testimonial above is shared with permission; identity withheld.
Guidance Throughout Every Ministry Journey
The Pension Boards offer trusted guidance and support as members explore benefits, retirement solutions, and long-term planning.
2025: Strong Global Markets Third Consecutive Positive Year Led by International Markets
Global equity markets had a third year of strong performance, driven by AI optimism, corporate earnings growth and the U.S. Federal Reserve proactively cutting interest rates. Notably, both emerging markets and international developed markets outperformed U.S. markets in 2025.
UCC Lifetime Retirement Income: The funded status (assets compared to the future projected payments to annuitants over their lifetimes) both improved over 2025.
Outcome: There was a 1.5% increase for the Basic Annuity and 8.0% increase for the Participating Annuity, beginning in 2026.
"Since 2006, the year we launched the Basic and Participating Annuity, we have issued ten increases—and over that period we did not decrease your monthly income payment. While we cannot guarantee future fund performance, it’s still a cause for celebration of our 20th anniversary!"
—Lan Cai
Chief Investment Officer
Annuity Rate Increases
Note: The increases in both the Basic and Participating Annuities are added to annuity payments that already include a four percent interest rate assumption.
The Basic Annuity invests in primarily fixed-income asset classes, while the Participating Annuity invests across all asset classes including equities, bonds, and private investments. Past performance is not indicative of future returns.
I received the letter stating that the PB Board of Trustees had voted to raise the participating annuity benefit by 8% for 2026. This is such great news and I am so grateful!
UCC Benefits at a Glance
MINISTERIAL RESOURCES Ministerial Resources that Strengthen Wellness and Vocation
Because we know the challenges and sacrifices that are made while serving in ministry, the United Church Board for Ministerial Assistance (UCBMA), the philanthropic arm of the Pension Boards, seeks to relieve worries and financial demands that come by way of unexpected life events. We ensure that you receive the care of the Church in your time of need.
IN PENSION SUPPLEMENTATION
Provided to 166 retirees
Helping eligible retirees bring their total household income up to a minimum established annually.
IN HEALTH SUPPLEMENTATION
Provided to 48 retirees
Helping eligible retirees pay their health premiums for the UCC Medicare Advantage Plan with Rx.
IN EMERGENCY GRANTS
Provided to 67 individuals
Assistance for unforeseen circumstances that cannot be addressed by personal income or savings.
IN THE CHRISTMAS FUND "THANK YOU'S"
Provided to 507 retirees
Saying “Thank You” to eligible retirees for their years of faithful service.
IN MINISTERIAL MONTHLY GRANTS
Provided to 59 individuals
Helping eligible retirees and persons on long term disability receive monthly assistance to meet basic living expenses.
IN NEW AND RENEWING CHURCH BENEFIT GRANTS
Provided to 13 congregations
Providing health care benefits to pastors.
Next Generation Leadership Initiative (NGLI)
The future of ministry demands leaders who are prepared for more than preaching and administration. In 2025, more than 50 creative and dynamic UCC pastors representing new generations of ministry gathered for the 2025 Next Generation Leadership Initiative (NGLI) Core event, a leadership development experience that aims to equip and empower clergy to co-create vibrant congregations that change lives, engage their communities, and further God’s mission in the world.
"These gatherings were far more than conferences; they were sacred spaces of renewal, discernment, and community. The time away from my congregation allowed me to step back, reflect deeply on my vocation, and return home re-centered and re-energized for the work of ministry."
—Rev. Dr. Michael L. Sloan, Senior Minister,
First Congregational Church of Spencerport, New York
Annuitant Visitor Program
Annuitant Visitors serve as ambassadors for the Pension Boards’ benefits, communicate appreciation for a lifetime of dedicated service, and offer collegial support.
In the fall of 2025, about 100 Annuitant Visitors and Deans gathered online for the annual Annuitant Visitor Gathering. New annuitant visitors participated in orientation sessions, and all participants attended educational workshops for key tools they need to best serve our members.
Annuitant Visitors were also joined by several Pension Boards staff who conducted interactive chat sessions to connect with visitors and capture their personal experiences and feedback in serving our members’ needs.
Outcome: The listening and learning experience helped Pension Boards staff become better aware of its members’ needs so they can further support those who require specific assistance with our services and benefit offerings.
Explore Ministerial Resources
Financial Wellness for Ministry and Life A PBUCC Ministerial Resource Pilot
Launched in 2025, Financial Wellness for Ministry and Life provided personalized financial guidance to members of the UCC Lifetime Retirement Income Plan.
Pilot Highlights
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45 members engaged in individualized financial wellness consultations
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All participants completed a financial wellness assessment and follow-up conversation
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Participants received access to no-cost financial counseling through LSS Financial Choice and estate planning tools via FreeWill
Early Impact
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$73,000 of credit card debt enrolled in structured debt management
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$23,455 already paid down, reducing long-term interest costs
As a follow-up from enrolling in the pilot program, I spoke with a PBUCC team member who directed me to LSS Financial Choice, to guide me through the Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program. This single conversation opened a door I have been searching for. I am getting closer to financial relief which will free up approximately $500 a month—money that I can redirect towards rebuilding my retirement savings!
Every Calling Deserves a Strong Foundation
STEWARDSHIP AND LEGACY Generosity that Sustains Ministry Today and Tomorrow
"Every act of generosity helps shape the ministry we share—but some gifts carry a legacy that extends far beyond the present moment. Planned giving is a meaningful way to ensure that the values, hope, and mission you support today continue to flourish for generations to come. Thank you to all of our faithful donors who have become a partner in sustaining ministry’s long-term vision and strengthening its ability to serve, inspire, and create lasting impact."
—Rev. Dr. Paul L. Ramsey
Director of Church Relations and Philanthropy
The Christmas Fund 2025
Donations to The Christmas Fund allow the United Church Board for Ministerial Assistance (UCBMA), the philanthropic arm of the Pension Boards, to provide direct financial relief such as emergency grants to sustain the wellbeing of those who serve our church, and who may be facing unforeseen circumstances. Thank you to our 1,072 faithful donors for your ongoing generous support.
Total Given
Total Gifts
Total Donors
Through Together for Tomorrow, a shared legacy campaign in partnership with National Ministries, we offer FreeWill, which allows donors to create a will at no cost, and leave planned gifts to causes that align with their faith and values.
Planned Gifts in 2025
Other Contributions for Ministry Impact
In 2025, we also raised over $300,000 for The Christmas Forever Fund, Ministerial Assistance, and Our Church’s Wider Mission.
Endowment Fund
Ministerial Assistance
Our Church’s Wider Mission
The Christmas Forever Fund: This endowment fund helps support future ministry endeavors and manage legacy gifts to secure resources for future generations. Assets are invested sustainably to protect both people and the environment.
Ministerial Assistance: Allows UCBMA to administer and raise funds for leadership initiatives that promote faithful and fruitful ministry across the United Church of Christ and provide direct financial support to authorized ministers, lay church employees, and their surviving spouses/partners in times of urgent need and personal crises.
Our Church’s Wider Mission (OCWM): Provides basic support that strengthens local congregations and leaders while connecting the wider church to ministry beyond our own community. Most OCWM support remains within Conferences, where it provides leadership development, mentoring, and congregational vitality resources such as conflict transformation, ministry reimagining, and direct grants to churches.
Thank You!
Our work would not be possible without your generous gifts, which help strengthen and sustain ministry while bringing hope to those who faithfully serve the church in their time of need. Thank you for your support.
How to Connect With Us
Whether you are looking to become a better steward of your finances, exploring health and retirement options for yourself or for your employees, or considering building your legacy, there are many ways we can support your needs. Reach out to us today. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Existing Pension Boards members can schedule a consultation with a Pension Counselor
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