Denominational Health Plan Forums (Discussions on Medical Insurance Coverage for Clergy and Lay Employees) in March 2012

Clergy, Wardens, Treasurers and Vestry Members are invited – and urged – to attend one of the remaining forums on the Denominational Health Plan, being held in March 2012.

The General Convention of 2009 approved a change to the national canons which requires all churches to attain parity in the offering and funding of health insurance to eligible ordained and lay persons working for congregations by January 1, 2013. The Bishop’s Advisory Committee on Human Resources and Benefits has been tasked with developing a proposal for our diocese to implement these new requirements. One proposal was presented in the fall, and it became clear, based on the feedback received, that a more extensive set of discussions was needed.

The remaining two sessions for discussion during the month of March:

• Thursday, March 22: The Saviour, 155 Morris Avenue, Denville
  6:30 p.m. Light Supper Available
  7-9 p.m. Presentation and Responses
  Open to all congregations.
   
• Saturday, March 24: St. Michael’s, 1219 Ratzer Road, Wayne
  9 a.m. Refreshments
  9:30-11:30 a.m. Presentation and Responses
  Open to all congregations.

While we have had several opportunities to discuss these new requirements with clergy – at Clergy Day, at a NECA gathering, at District Clergy Conversations – we are especially looking forward to these opportunities in March to listen to the questions, concerns, and suggestions of lay leaders as well as continuing the dialogue with clergy.

This invitation is directed to clergy, wardens, and treasurers. We are happy for any and all lay leaders to attend!

So that we can prepare sufficient materials and refreshment, please RSVP at least two days before the session you plan to attend, to Giorvanna Larathe at Episcopal House (glarathe [at] dioceseofnewark [dot] org; 973-430-9900).

Sincerely,
Bishop’s Advisory Committee on Human Resources