Issue 103 of Administration Matters
Rostered Ministers Gathering 2026
Registration for the 2026 Rostered Ministers Gathering, happening July 6-9 at the JW Marriott in Indianapolis, is open! All ELCA deacons, pastors, bishops and candidates approved for call are invited to be “Woven Together” in a time of intentional connection, listening and learning from one another in these challenging times. Engage with dynamic preachers, speakers, presenters, and even a theologian-in-residence and artist-in-residence.
Register soon to get the early bird rate (available through March 31). A limited number of scholarships are available to defray registration costs and other expenses — learn more at elca.org/rmg.
Updated 2025 Tax Guides Available Through Portico
Portico Benefit Services offers updated 2025 tax guides designed to support ELCA ministers and congregations during tax season. These annually updated resources address tax topics unique to ministry and church administration:
Clergy Tax Return Preparation Guide by Richard R. Hammar — a comprehensive guide focused on tax considerations specific to ministers.
Federal Reporting Requirements for Churches — a practical overview to help congregations understand federal tax-reporting responsibilities.
Individuals must sign in to their Portico account to access and download the guides via myPortico or the Tax Filing Information tab on EmployerLink.
Common Financial Scams Nonprofits May Face
Nonprofits must carefully steward the funds entrusted to their care. Unfortunately, there are individuals who may try to take advantage of your organization through fraud, and there are a few specific scams of which nonprofit professionals should be aware. >More
Handling Church Staff Transitions — With Grace, Wisdom and Excellence
When an employee leaves a church, the transition involves critical administrative, relational and spiritual steps to ensure the health of both the departing individual and the congregation. >More
Fraud Happened. Now What?
Many churches expect fraud will never happen to them and are caught off guard when it does. Fundamentally, fraud is a symptom of the fallen human heart, so all churches are exposed to the risk. Even Jesus’ ministry was a victim of fraud (John 12:1-6). Unfortunately, the church has a long history of fraud as evidenced by biblical accounts, two thousand years of church history and headlines in today’s news. Fraud can occur in any church. >More
