The most important thing we do is care for one another, and health insurance is a foundation of that care.
The Church Pension Group has told us that our health insurance rates will rise 14% for 2027. We know what that number means for a congregation’s budget, and for the clergy and lay staff who depend on this coverage.
- Last winter the Health Care Task Force was named, co-chaired by diocesan Trustees Diana Wheeler and Richard McKeon, with clergy and lay leaders from every region of the Diocese. Its charge is to recommend changes in policy and support that lower costs while maintaining care.
- The Task Force has begun by understanding the healthcare landscape and listening to our communities.
We need your help understanding the health care needs of the Diocese of New York. We are asking every congregation to complete a short survey by Friday, October 30, 2026. It takes about 15 minutes. We’d like one response from each congregation, completed by the clergy and wardens together.
The survey asks about the plans you currently offer, and who is covered for clergy and lay staff.
The Task Force will receive recommendations and data will be reported only in summary; no congregation or individual will be identified.
The Task Force will report what it learned to the whole Diocese by the end of the year. Long-term changes will take time to phase in and your answers this month will shape those policies.
Separately, and more immediately, clericus deans and regional canons will schedule meetings across the Diocese this fall. These meetings will model what each plan option would cost your congregation and your clergy, so that you can decide with real numbers. Your regional canon will be in touch with dates.
Thank you for your time. Your participation will make a difference. Please write to healthcare@dioceseny.org with any questions.
With Grace and Peace,
The EDNY Healthcare Taskforce:
Diana Wheeler
Richard McKeon
Gillian Goddard
Winsome Grant
Donna Price
Peter Thompson
Wadell Stillman
Lloyd Stanford
Ed McGann
Judi Allen
Bishop Matthew Heyd