The Benefits of Employee Benefits

By: Jestin Davis
Employee Benefits Director, Lightwell Insurance Advisors

In today’s competitive job market, attracting and retaining top talent is not just a challenge for businesses — it’s a critical issue for churches as well. While many faith-based organizations rely on a sense of purpose and mission to attract employees, the reality is that employee benefits also play a big part when it comes to recruiting and retaining ministry staff.

Attracting & Retaining Talented Ministry Workers
When I first began my career in the employee benefits space, I was working as an advisor with an independent advisory firm, looking to help businesses grow. I found early on that the employers who embraced going above and beyond with their benefits offering, attracted and retained top talent.

Now, working with Lightwell, it is clear the same lesson applies to ministries as well. Without competitive benefits, a church may struggle to retain talented staff due to financial burdens or burnout, which can lead to turnover, and result in difficulty in achieving their mission. Just like in the corporate world, offering attractive benefits can make the difference between retaining an exceptional employee or losing them to another opportunity.

Providing Employee Care
Churches that prioritize employee benefits usually have an easier time recruiting skilled, passionate individuals. When prospective employees see that a church invests in their well-being—physically, financially, and emotionally—they are more likely to commit to serving long-term. Additionally, churches that support their staff with strong benefits foster a culture of care, which extends to the entire congregation.

Here are some key employee benefit solutions our team can help you explore:
Comprehensive Health Insurance - Health coverage is one of the most important benefits any employer can offer. Ask about health plans that cover medical, dental, and vision needs.

Life and Disability Insurance - Providing life insurance and short-term or long-term disability coverage shows employees that their financial security is a priority. This is particularly valuable for those with families who depend on their income. 

Additional employee offerings or programs to consider:
Mental Health Resources - Access to mental health resources also essential, as ministry-related stress can take a toll on employees.

Retirement Plans - Many church workers sacrifice higher salaries for the sake of their calling. Offering a robust retirement plan, such as a 403(b) or a church-sponsored pension plan, helps ensure their long-term financial well-being.

Paid Time Off (PTO) and Sabbaticals - Ministry can be emotionally and physically demanding. Competitive PTO policies, including vacation, sick leave, and even sabbaticals for long-term employees, can help prevent burnout and encourage longevity in service.

Flexible Work Arrangements - Hybrid and remote work options, where possible, can improve work-life balance. Many administrative roles within a church can be performed remotely, offering employees greater flexibility without compromising mission effectiveness.

Professional Development and Education Assistance - Encouraging employees to continue their education—whether through seminary courses, leadership training, or professional certifications—enhances both their personal growth and the church’s overall impact.

Financial Wellness Programs - Offering financial coaching, access to financial planning services, or even church-assisted loan programs can alleviate financial stress and promote better stewardship among staff members.

How We Can Help
At Lightwell Insurance Advisors, we understand the unique financial constraints that churches face and work to connect churches with employer solutions that provide maximum value without excessive costs.

If your church is looking to attract and retain top talent while staying true to its mission, let’s start a conversation. A well-structured benefits package is not just an expense—it’s an investment in your church’s future and its ability to serve the community effectively.

Contact a Lightwell Agent today to learn how we can help your church create a benefits plan that works for your team and your mission.

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