Planning Financial Support for the Minister
For a discussion of the three primary areas to consider in providing financially for your ministers, click Planning.
Church Retirement Plan
All church employees are eligible to participate in the 403b Church Retirement Plan through GuideStone Financial Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Most church employees are eligible for a free $500 Disability benefit and a free Survivor benefit up to $100,000.
Counseling for Ministers & Family
ABSC Ministers and family members can talk to a Licensed Christian Marriage & Family Counselor at no cost, provided by ABSC. You can receive counseling face-to-face, by telephone or email. You can be seen at the Little Rock office, an alternate site, or on your field of service.
Online Counseling: You can initiate individual, marriage or family counseling online by email. There are many issues that can be resolved and questions that can be answered online.
Referral Network: The Ministerial Services and Counseling Service has developed a statewide referral service. It's often possible to talk with a Licensed Christian Counselor in your local area. Arkansas Baptist Christian Counseling Registry
Counseling Information, Resources and Referrals: The coordinator of Ministerial Services is Dr. J.D. Stake, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT). He is also a Licensed Supervisor for LAC's and LAMFT's and Chairman of the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling. You may contact Dr. Stake at 800.838.2272, ext. 5160 (toll-free in Ark.) or 501.376.4791, ext. 5160 or email: J.D. Stake.