news article
Clergy Care Fund: A lifeline for clergy in crisis
April 8, 2025 / By Shelby Winchell, Director of Communications / .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The demands of ministry are many—and sometimes, life’s unexpected financial burdens can make it difficult for clergy to be fully present to both their appointment and their families. That’s where the Clergy Care Fund steps in.
This fund exists to assist active clergy under appointment who are experiencing an unforeseen financial crisis. The Upper New York Board of Ordained Ministry’s (BOM) updated policy emphasizes that priority is given to situations that interfere with a clergy person’s ability to be fully present in their ministry or with their immediate family.
The Clergy Care Fund is made possible through the annual offering taken at Clergy Session during Annual Conference, and through the generous, year-round support of clergy and people of good will across our conference. It is administered confidentially by BOM and guided by the Clergy Care Fund Stewardship Team.
How It Works
If you are an active clergy person in need:
- Start by contacting your District Superintendent (DS). Your DS will submit a request on your behalf.
- The Stewardship Team will prayerfully and thoughtfully review the request.
- If approved, assistance will be processed through the Conference Finance Office, and you’ll be informed of any tax implications (as the assistance is considered taxable income).
Growing Need, Growing Opportunity
In the past six months, BOM has seen an increase in the number of requests for help from this fund—a reflection of the rising costs of medical care, transportation, and other essential needs that are outpacing clergy salaries.
BOM anticipates this trend will continue—and we’re inviting United Methodists of Upper New York to help meet the need.
Your contributions make it possible for clergy to keep serving with peace of mind even as they go through unexpected financial crises. Please consider making a donation to the Clergy Care Fund by making a donation in the app, clicking here, or scanning the QR code. Whether you give now or through the offering at Clergy Session, every gift helps provide critical care and support to a colleague in ministry.
Use this as an invitation to receive and to give. Let’s care for one another as we continue to care for our pastors and communities.
Download the UNY UMC app using the following QR codes. The app is free wherever you get your apps.
Scan this QR code if you have an Android device.
Scan this QR code if you have an Apple device.