The Church of the Nazarene has partnered with GuideStone Financial Resources to provide churches with access to the group health insurance programs of GuideStone (the benefit board that serves Southern Baptist and select evangelical ministries). This arrangement offers a range of healthcare solutions to meet a variety of needs and budgets. 

“Many of our churches have been in a quandary about what to do with the July 1 deadline for compliance with the Affordable Care Act,” said Don Walter, Pensions and Benefits USA director for the Church of the Nazarene. “Through this partnership, churches have an opportunity to avoid onerous penalties for noncompliance while taking advantage of health care options from a faith-based organization with years of experience in the insurance business.”

GuideStone health plans (both personal and group) are considered group plans under federal law, thereby reducing the risk of costly ACA violations. GuideStone’s insured participants — tens of thousands of pastors and religious workers — have access to best-in-class health care network providers in the U.S. (Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield and Express Scripts), which results in deep-discounted savings to participants.

GuideStone has developed insurance solutions that provide group plans to any size church. More specifically, they have eight PPO health plans and three high-deductible health plans. Additionally, out-of-pocket medical expense plans (Health Reimbursement Arrangements or Health Savings Accounts) can be integrated. Churches may secure their own HRA/HSA service providers or GuideStone can suggest third-party vendors.

“The Church of the Nazarene is not getting back in the health insurance business, but with reputable partners like GuideStone, we don’t have to,” Walter added. “I encourage our pastors and churches to investigate the options now available to them through this partnership.”

For requirements, underwriting guidelines, and an application, contact GuideStone at 888-984-8433.

--Pensions &  Benefits USA