Global United Methodist Forum Addresses Pension Challenges for Pastors Outside the US
MANILA, Philippines – United Methodist leaders and pension administrators convened in Manila recently to address the growing challenges of sustaining pension systems for clergy serving outside the United States. The Central Conference Pension Forum brought together participants – both active and retired – from across the globe to focus on strengthening governance, securing funding, and improving access to vital pension data.
A key concern raised throughout the forum was the difficulty in consistently collecting required contributions from pastors and local churches.Wespath Benefits and Investments acknowledged that even full contributions may be insufficient to cover the benefits being accrued by pastors in some plans.
“Even if contributions are received in full, the rates set in some plans are inadequate to fund the benefits pastors are accruing,” explained a Wespath representative.
Participants lauded Wespath’s efforts to present complex pension information in an understandable manner, particularly for those new to the system. Thomas Kemper, a Central Conference Pensions consultant, praised the institution’s “very clear and forward-looking direction,” adding that “Learning from each other across continents and cultures strengthens the connection and helps build more resilient and just pension systems.”
The forum highlighted three core areas for improvement: internal governance, reliable contributions, and pension information accessibility. despite the meaningful hurdles, attendees expressed optimism and a renewed commitment to supporting both current and future retirees.
“I leave the Central Conference Pension Forum in Manila with hope for the future,” said the Rev. Kavanaugh. “This is a faith-filled, committed community of servants. We have an obligation to retirees and to those who donated generously to seed this program.”
Participants were encouraged to review the latest Central Conference Pensions report, available in English, French, and Portuguese.
The forum underscored the importance of informed and responsible leadership in ensuring the long-term viability of pension systems for United Methodist clergy worldwide. As Nigeria’s Kuhturu stated, “May we continue to serve with passion as we look forward with hope in expanding the kingdom of God through this ministry of care to those who serve.”
