Some interesting discussions about various ideas being floated for a freeze to the Clergy stipends this year. It would seem that there are 101 reasons for this along the lines of solidarity with Parishioners who are suffering a similar (or worse) plight - and of course none of them are to do with money, right?
Ok if you came into Ministry for the pay and perks then you're on a hiding to nothing. Five or so years ago we had a Diocesan review where every conceivable factor which might cause the Parish Share to go up was considered and the increase for that year was calculated accordingly. One of these factors was the then still to be agreed proposal for a larger than usual increase in Clergy stipend. Well wouldn't you know it, the increase was reduced and as a result the Parish Share increase was below that which was predicted. Galling it was indeed to sit in a meeting where people were cock-a-hoop at the Share not going up too much - nobody thought to consider how the Clergy present in the room might feel about it. Let's be clear - the Church of England is strapped for cash not because of the Church Commissioners, but because the level of giving as a whole is scandalously low.
So I am not in favour of a pay freeze, although like many bankers I am willing to forego any possible bonus that may be considered (ha ha - as if). I would be happy to pledge any rise in stipend to support some charity working with those suffering most from the current financial situation (as long as that isn't Porsche salesmen) - and I guess I could then Gift Aid it too (tee hee - cheers Gordon).
sympathy with you on this point, Howard
Posted by: Caroline Too | September 24, 2009 at 07:13 PM