Cost of Living Average (COLA) increases for 2024 are estimated to be approximately 3% based on the Consumer Price Index.  The Synod Council takes the COLA estimates into account when setting synod guidelines.  Understanding that last year we did not encourage the full COLA increase of over 8% knowing that amount would be a big hit to our congregations, this year we are recommending a 4% increase to help get our rostered ministers closer to where they should be if they stayed with COLA. We have also increased the pulpit supply compensation amount and continuing education allowance as both amounts were unchanged for many years. The 2024 Rostered Minister Compensation Guidelines provide explanations and presents aids for determining the various parts of the compensation in a progressive manner. The components of Pastor’s compensation package will be presented as follows: 

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• Base Salary (not including housing or professional expenses)

• Parsonage or Housing Allowance

• Supplemental Benefits

• Professional Expenses
   

There are different standards of living in the communities which compose the

There are different standards of living in the communities which compose the Arkansas-Oklahoma Synod.  Guidelines which seem low and inadequate to some may be a significant challenge for others.

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The Base Salary for rostered ministers should compare to others in the community of similar responsibility, training, and activity.

 

Please regard these as minimum guidelines.

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Congregations are encouraged to exceed the guidelines in compensating their pastors.

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These guidelines and suggested compensation levels for 2024 were reviewed and approved by the Arkansas-Oklahoma Synod Council August 25, 2023.