Issue 99 of Administration Matters
Online Bible Studies — 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly
Join ELCA Churchwide Assembly voting members in preparing for the assembly! All are welcome to participate in the online Bible studies that will be held Wednesday evenings in July (July 9, 16, 23). Each session will focus on the assembly theme “For the Life of the World” through one of three lenses: climate justice, gender justice, and war/conflict and reconciliation, followed by engagement with these Bible study presenters:
• July 9 — Willie Korboi (climate justice lens)
• July 16 — Deacon Clare Josef-Maier (gender justice lens)
• July 23 — Rev. Atahualpa Hernández Miranda (war/conflict and reconciliation lens)
More information about registering for the webinars will be posted at www.ELCA.org/cwa. The 2025 Churchwide Assembly will take place July 28–Aug. 2 in Phoenix, Ariz. Watch the live video of worship and plenary sessions at www.ELCA.org/cwa.
Supporting ELCA Leaders: Mental Health Resources
As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month this May, it’s crucial to recognize the unique challenges faced by ELCA congregational and synodical leaders and staff. Prioritizing mental health not only enhances personal well-being but also strengthens our capacity to serve effectively. Portico Benefit Services offers a comprehensive suite of mental health resources tailored to support its plan members’ well-being:
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Six counseling sessions per issue every 12 months at no additional cost, available by phone, by video or in person.
• Learn to Live: Self-paced, coach-supported cognitive behavioral therapy programs, addressing anxiety, depression, stress and more.
• Mental Health Services: Evaluation, assessment, counseling, medication management and addiction treatment.
For a comprehensive overview of these resources, please refer your plan members to Portico’s mental health benefits and support programs.
Determining Worker Classifications
When individuals perform work for an organization, there are several specific, defined ways for them to be classified in the organization’s payroll and accounting systems, depending on the nature of their work. Errors in these classifications are common, especially in nonprofit organizations with small back-office teams. Classifying workers correctly is important because errors have tax implications for both the employee and the employer. >More
Benefits reExamined: Evolving Our Health Plan for a Stronger Future
As part of its ongoing commitment to our community, Portico launched Benefits reExamined—a deep look into how the ELCA Health Plan can continue to provide flexible, affordable benefits in a sustainable way. In response to rising health care costs and declining church resources, updates will take effect starting Jan. 1, 2026, to preserve what’s valued most and strengthen the plan for the future. Visit https://porticobenefits.org/about-us/benefits-reexamined to learn more.
React Quickly to Flooding and Hail
Flooding is the deadliest type of natural disaster in the United States, whether it’s caused by a hurricane, heavy rainfall or some other calamity. Take steps to protect your building. >More
Church Income Isn’t Keeping Pace With Inflation
How can churches increase their income in the face of inflation and manage funds for necessary expenses and programs? Faith leaders can encourage their communities and congregations to think about online giving. Other funding sources may include fundraisers, space rental, investments, endowments, capital funds or school tuition, yet participant giving remains a key income source for churches across the country. >More
