{"id":11795,"date":"2024-12-10T06:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-12-10T06:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?p=11795"},"modified":"2024-12-10T17:50:46","modified_gmt":"2024-12-10T17:50:46","slug":"december-2024-benefits","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/?p=11795","title":{"rendered":"December 2024 Benefits"},"content":{"rendered":"[vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;0&#8243; bottom_padding=&#8221;0&#8243; top_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; bottom_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; class=&#8221;enews&#8221; advanced_gradient_angle=&#8221;0&#8243; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;11797&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;entrance&#8221; animation=&#8221;Fade In&#8221; animation_easing=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_movement_type=&#8221;transform_y&#8221; hover_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; alignment=&#8221;&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#8221;][\/vc_column][vc_column top_padding_desktop=&#8221;5&#8243; bottom_padding_desktop=&#8221;0&#8243; top_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; bottom_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;advanced&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;In this Issue&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h3|text_align:left&#8221; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Domine%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;]<div class=\"nectar-fancy-ul link_style_opacity\" data-list-icon=\"fa fa-bookmark\" data-animation=\"false\" data-animation-delay=\"0\" data-color=\"accent-color\" data-spacing=\"default\" data-alignment=\"left\"> \n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/?p=11795#tips\">Tip from Barb re: End-of-Year Benefits Deadlines<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/?p=11795#cep\">CEP: Rev. Aneeta Saroop on her DMin; Advanced Study Grant Application Deadline<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/?p=11795#wellness\">Wellness: Remember to Breathe<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/?p=11795#biosimilar\">Your Benefits Plan: Manitoba Members &amp; Biosimilar Drugs<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/?p=11795#webinars\">Kii Webinars on Holiday Money Management and Grief Awareness<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n <\/div>[\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_color=&#8221;rgba(135,185,67,0.02)&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;0&#8243; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;20px&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; id=&#8221;tips&#8221; advanced_gradient_angle=&#8221;0&#8243; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; bottom_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; left_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; right_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color=&#8221;rgba(255,0,0,0.02)&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;custom&#8221; top_left_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; top_right_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; bottom_right_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; bottom_left_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;11807&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;entrance&#8221; animation=&#8221;Fade In&#8221; animation_easing=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_movement_type=&#8221;transform_y&#8221; hover_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;custom&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; top_left_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; top_right_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews-banner&#8221;][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1714667706332{margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_inner bottom_padding_desktop=&#8221;0&#8243; left_padding_desktop=&#8221;20&#8243; right_padding_desktop=&#8221;20&#8243; bottom_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;advanced&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;End-of-Year Deadlines&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h2|text_align:center&#8221; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Domine%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1733717186038{margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews-h2&#8243;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">Coverage maximums<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:150,&quot;335559739&quot;:150}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">This is the final month to use your benefits before the coverage maximums reset for 2025.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:150,&quot;335559739&quot;:150}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/chiro.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-11809 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/chiro-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/chiro-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/chiro.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a>If you haven\u2019t used the <strong>available amounts in your Professional Services<\/strong> coverage (such as chiropractor, massage therapist or counsellor), there may still be time to book a final visit and get set for the holidays. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">If you used your benefits in 2024 and your provider doesn\u2019t direct bill the insurance company, <strong>you have until March 31 2025 to submit the claim<\/strong>. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:150,&quot;335559739&quot;:150}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">Health Care Spending Account<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Also remember that if you had a <strong>carry-forward balance from 2023<\/strong> in your health care spending account, it will <strong>expire<\/strong> at the end of December. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">If you\u2019re in that situation<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">, <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">now <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">would be a good <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">time to <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">review your claims and see if there are any portions unpaid that you can submit.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:150,&quot;335559739&quot;:150}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Your available balances can be found when you log onto your Manulife member account.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:150,&quot;335559739&quot;:150}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">Modular Health Benefits\u202f-\u202f<\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">New Selections\u202f<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">The deadline for changing your module for 2025 has now passed. However, if you still want to make a change, contact the GSI office <strong>this week<\/strong><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">;<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\"> we will make an effort to process your change<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">. Remember, you can move to an adjacent module (e.g., from green to teal) by filling in a\u202f<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/ELCIC-Group-Benefits-Enrollment-form.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Group Benefits Enrollment form<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"none\">.<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u202f<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/?page_id=52\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Health module premiums<\/a> have been posted on the GSI website, so that you and your congregation will be able to consider those in the decision.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233279&quot;:true,&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; 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desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;11854&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;entrance&#8221; animation=&#8221;Fade In&#8221; animation_easing=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_movement_type=&#8221;transform_y&#8221; hover_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;custom&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; top_left_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; top_right_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews-banner&#8221;][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1702227614107{padding-right: 20px !important;padding-left: 20px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_inner bottom_padding_desktop=&#8221;0&#8243; bottom_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;advanced&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;The DMin at the STU: A Journey of Exploration&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h2|text_align:center&#8221; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Domine%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1733725278687{margin-top: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-right: 10px !important;padding-left: 10px !important;}&#8221; el_class=&#8221;byline&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]by Rev. Aneeta Saroop<br \/>\nSpirit of Life Lutheran, Vancouver[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<div id=\"attachment_11821\" style=\"width: 236px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><a href=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Aneeta-scaled.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-11821\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-11821\" src=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Aneeta-226x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"226\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Aneeta-226x300.jpg 226w, https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Aneeta-771x1024.jpg 771w, https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Aneeta-768x1020.jpg 768w, https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Aneeta-1157x1536.jpg 1157w, https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Aneeta-1542x2048.jpg 1542w, https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Aneeta-scaled.jpg 1928w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 226px) 100vw, 226px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-11821\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Pastor Aneeta with Bishop Kathy Martin<\/p><\/div>\n<p>This year, I re-entered the world of academic study and began a <strong>journey of exploration into practical and contextual theology<\/strong>. This was made possible with financial assistance from the ELCIC Advanced Study Grant.<\/p>\n<p>So far, the <strong>Doctor of Ministry program<\/strong> at the STU (Saskatoon Theological Union) is promising to be a wonderful way for the congregation (Spirit of Life, Vancouver) that I serve \u2014 and for me \u2014 to understand our history, and also our present location and identity within the neighbourhood. This will help us to <strong>better understand our Christian mission<\/strong> together today and into the future.<\/p>\n<p>The congregation is discovering that there are many people in our busy urban setting who are interested in a life of faith in community and who have not traditionally been part of the Lutheran church. The church must <strong>identify the ways God is active and alive outside of our traditions<\/strong> and ecclesiology to meet God\u2019s diverse people where they are \u2014 while ensuring safe and hospitable space for all within the body of Christ.<\/p>\n<p>The classes I\u2019ve take so far in the DMin program are helping me to <strong>re-envision and articulate my theological imagination<\/strong> when it comes to where and with whom God is proclaiming the Good News.[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;Small Line&#8221; line_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; line_thickness=&#8221;2&#8243; divider_color=&#8221;extra-color-1&#8243; custom_height=&#8221;3&#8243;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;Advanced Study Grant Application Deadlines&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h2|text_align:center&#8221; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Domine%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1733843701133{padding-top: 10px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1702013710300{margin-top: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-right: 10px !important;padding-left: 10px !important;}&#8221; el_class=&#8221;byline&#8221;]by Deacon Gretchen Peterson<br \/>\nAssistant to the Bishop, Youth &amp; Leadership[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1733801494691{margin-top: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-right: 10px !important;padding-left: 10px !important;}&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]<a href=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Gretchen-Peterson-e1643813015112.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-8893 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Gretchen-Peterson-e1643813015112-221x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"221\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Gretchen-Peterson-e1643813015112-221x300.jpg 221w, https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Gretchen-Peterson-e1643813015112.jpg 625w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 221px) 100vw, 221px\" \/><\/a>Every January, I look forward to receiving applications from CEP (Continuing Education Plan) members who have plans to either <strong>start an advanced education program or to continue in their studies<\/strong>, as they apply for the Advanced Study Grants.<\/p>\n<p>These applications are reviewed by the Program Committee for Leadership for Ministry (PCLM), which consists of a rep from each synod, a rep from each of our ELCIC Seminaries, and myself as National Office staff. It\u2019s exciting to see what type of studies our leaders are engaged in!<\/p>\n<p>Thinking of engaging in deeper learning through a program in advanced learning? Make sure to apply for the Advanced Study Grant! The deadline is <strong>January 15, 2025<\/strong>. There&#8217;s also a deadline for May 15 each year. Find the application form <a href=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/?page_id=3775\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here.<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_color=&#8221;rgba(0,0,0,0.05)&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;0&#8243; left_padding_desktop=&#8221;5&#8243; right_padding_desktop=&#8221;5&#8243; top_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;20px&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; id=&#8221;wellness&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;11831&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;entrance&#8221; animation=&#8221;Fade In&#8221; animation_easing=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_movement_type=&#8221;transform_y&#8221; hover_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;custom&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; top_left_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; top_right_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews-banner&#8221;][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1702227614107{padding-right: 20px !important;padding-left: 20px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_inner bottom_padding_desktop=&#8221;0&#8243; bottom_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;advanced&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;Remember to Breathe!&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h2|text_align:center&#8221; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Domine%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/getty-images-lnVlvL_QY0c-unsplash-scaled.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-11834 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/getty-images-lnVlvL_QY0c-unsplash-200x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"200\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/getty-images-lnVlvL_QY0c-unsplash-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/getty-images-lnVlvL_QY0c-unsplash-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/getty-images-lnVlvL_QY0c-unsplash-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/getty-images-lnVlvL_QY0c-unsplash-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/getty-images-lnVlvL_QY0c-unsplash-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/getty-images-lnVlvL_QY0c-unsplash-scaled.jpg 1707w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><\/a>Advent can be an exciting time<\/strong> in the life of the church and its workers. The church may be humming with activities and excitement. Former youth group members are home from university. Choirs and Sunday Schools prepare concerts that underscore the special-ness of the season.<\/p>\n<p>It <strong>can also be a difficult<\/strong> time. Those who have lost loved ones may feel the loss even more acutely. In Canada, December is cold and dark. For clergy, Advent can be very stressful even as it brings joy. There are just too many tasks, not enough time, and then somehow unexpected funerals appear on the calendar as well.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Nobody benefits from leadership burnout.<\/strong> Your mental and physical health matter. Sometimes, you (as clergy, administrative assistant, or whatever your role is) may have to say no. That&#8217;s okay. <strong>It&#8217;s okay to stop<\/strong> all the busy-ness for a minute and recenter: To pray. To exercise (even if that&#8217;s just a walk around the block). To enjoy a meal with friends or to retreat from the crowd and eat a quiet meal alone.<\/p>\n<p>Remember to breathe.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_color=&#8221;rgba(135,185,67,0.1)&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;0&#8243; bottom_padding=&#8221;0&#8243; left_padding_desktop=&#8221;0&#8243; right_padding_desktop=&#8221;0&#8243; top_padding_tablet=&#8221;5&#8243; bottom_padding_tablet=&#8221;5&#8243; left_padding_tablet=&#8221;5&#8243; right_padding_tablet=&#8221;5&#8243; top_padding_phone=&#8221;5&#8243; bottom_padding_phone=&#8221;5&#8243; left_padding_phone=&#8221;5&#8243; right_padding_phone=&#8221;5&#8243; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;20px&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; id=&#8221;biosimilar&#8221; advanced_gradient_angle=&#8221;0&#8243; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; left_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; left_margin_tablet=&#8221;5&#8243; left_margin_phone=&#8221;5&#8243; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;11810&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;entrance&#8221; animation=&#8221;Fade In&#8221; animation_easing=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_movement_type=&#8221;transform_y&#8221; hover_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;custom&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; top_left_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; top_right_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews-banner&#8221;][\/vc_column][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;padding-3-percent&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;left-right&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;Manitoba Plan Members &amp; Biosimilar Drugs&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h2|text_align:center|color:%2387b943&#8243; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Domine%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1733721423918{margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1733722207668{padding-bottom: 0px !important;}&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]<em>Manulife has sent this useful information for our Plan Members in Manitoba.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW150414368 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-CA\" xml:lang=\"EN-CA\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW150414368 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"No Spacing\">The Manitoba government has\u202fannounced its\u202f<\/span><\/span><a class=\"Hyperlink SCXW150414368 BCX0\" href=\"https:\/\/www.manitoba.ca\/health\/pharmacare\/biosimilars.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><span class=\"TextRun Underlined SCXW150414368 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-CA\" xml:lang=\"EN-CA\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW150414368 BCX0\" data-ccp-charstyle=\"Hyperlink\">biosimilar initiative<\/span><\/span><\/a><span class=\"TextRun SCXW150414368 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-CA\" xml:lang=\"EN-CA\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW150414368 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"No Spacing\">\u00a0\u2014 <strong>expanding the use of biosimilar medications<\/strong> in place of biologic medications for certain conditions, where they are available. This means Manitoba residents with coverage under the provincial plan and using certain biologic drugs covered by the Manitoba provincial program will need to \u200btransition to the biosimilar versions, where they are available, to continue to receive coverage through the provincial plan.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW150414368 BCX0\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">How does this affect Manulife drug plans for members in Manitoba?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\"><a href=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/pharmacist.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-11811 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/pharmacist-300x194.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"194\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/pharmacist-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/pharmacist.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a>For Manulife Plan Members, <strong>Manulife is aligning<\/strong> to the coverage that is offered through the Manitoba provincial plan.\u202fAs such, these Plan Members will be required to make the transition to the biosimilar drug as noted in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.manitoba.ca\/health\/pharmacare\/biosimilars.html#products\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">this chart<\/a> to receive continued coverage under their Manulife plan.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">For members who make the transition before the transition period end date noted in the chart, there is no change to the process. Manulife will consider claims for any portion unpaid by the Manitoba provincial plan for biosimilars. They won&#8217;t consider claims for biologic drugs after the transition period end date.\u202f\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">How have Plan Members been informed?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Manitoba Health has communicated these changes publicly and provided resources to specialist, doctors and nurse practitioners. It is likely many affected members are already aware of the change. In some cases, they may have already made the transition. Also, Manulife is directly communicating with affected members to let them know what is happening and when.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">What if a member is unable to transition to a Biosimilar?<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"none\">Manitoba will consider <strong>exceptions on a case-by-case basis<\/strong> for members who are medically unable to transfer to a biosimilar. The member&#8217;s doctor would need to submit a request for exceptional coverage on their behalf. If approved, the member would need to provide Manulife with proof of their approval, and Manulife will consider balances for the biologic drug according to policy provisions.\u200b<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;335559739&quot;:0}\">\u00a0<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_color=&#8221;rgba(255,255,255,0.08)&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;0&#8243; left_padding_desktop=&#8221;5&#8243; right_padding_desktop=&#8221;5&#8243; top_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;20px&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; id=&#8221;webinars&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;11799&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;entrance&#8221; animation=&#8221;Fade In&#8221; animation_easing=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_movement_type=&#8221;transform_y&#8221; hover_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;custom&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; top_left_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; top_right_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews-banner&#8221;][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221; css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1702227614107{padding-right: 20px !important;padding-left: 20px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_inner bottom_padding_desktop=&#8221;0&#8243; bottom_margin=&#8221;0&#8243; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; column_padding_type=&#8221;advanced&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;#1. Holiday Money Management&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h2|text_align:center&#8221; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Domine%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]<span class=\"TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW155123646 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-CA\" xml:lang=\"EN-CA\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW155123646 BCX8\"><strong>Description<\/strong>: <span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW159260129 BCX0\"> Money remains one of the great taboo topics of our culture, which is very unfortunate.\u00a0 We have made strides in discussing mental health issues, but not in discussing income disparity.\u00a0 This comes strongly into play around traditional gift-giving events, like birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, and in particular holidays that have a gift-giving tradition.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW155123646 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-CA\" xml:lang=\"EN-CA\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW155123646 BCX8\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW159260129 BCX0\"><a href=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/money-management.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-11836 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/money-management-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/money-management-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/money-management.jpg 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a>In today\u2019s economy, many of us struggle to manage our own daily finances without the added societal pressure to \u2018keep up with the Joneses\u2019, even when the \u2018Joneses\u2019 are part of your family. We are all under so much financial stress and this only compounds it.\u00a0 <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW155123646 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-CA\" xml:lang=\"EN-CA\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW155123646 BCX8\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW159260129 BCX0\">Join <\/span><span class=\"SpellingError SCXW159260129 BCX0\">CloudMD<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW159260129 BCX0\"> this month to learn more about managing your money through the holiday season and beyond.\u00a0 Learn how to discuss finances openly and to plan events that don\u2019t overly stress you while allowing you to contribute meaningfully.\u00a0 Participants will be equipped with knowledge and skills to better prepare for the holiday season and to reduce some of the financial stress that can come with it.<\/span><\/span><\/span><span class=\"LineBreakBlob BlobObject DragDrop SCXW155123646 BCX8\"><br class=\"SCXW155123646 BCX8\" \/><\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW62811136 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-CA\" xml:lang=\"EN-CA\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW62811136 BCX8\">Ask an Expert Question:<\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"LineBreakBlob BlobObject DragDrop SCXW155123646 BCX8\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW245741075 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-CA\" xml:lang=\"EN-CA\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW245741075 BCX0\">\u201cMy partner\u2019s family exchanges gifts over the holidays, and they\u2019re a big family. Money\u2019s already tight right now and between our mortgage, utilities, and getting food on the table, we\u2019re barely making ends meet. I\u2019m feeling so much pressure and pulled in so many directions. What can I do?\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW155123646 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-CA\" xml:lang=\"EN-CA\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW155123646 BCX8\"><strong>Date<\/strong>:<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW155123646 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-CA\" xml:lang=\"EN-CA\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW155123646 BCX8\"> <span class=\"TextRun SCXW216386939 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-CA\" xml:lang=\"EN-CA\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW216386939 BCX0\">Wednesday, December 11 Time: 12:00 \u2013 12:30 PM ET\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>[\/vc_column_text][nectar_btn size=&#8221;large&#8221; open_new_tab=&#8221;true&#8221; button_style=&#8221;regular-tilt&#8221; button_color=&#8221;Extra-Color-1&#8243; icon_family=&#8221;fontawesome&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews-button&#8221; text=&#8221;Register for Webinar&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/attendee.gotowebinar.com\/register\/3336964350950255966&#8243; icon_fontawesome=&#8221;fa fa-desktop&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][divider line_type=&#8221;Small Line&#8221; line_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; line_thickness=&#8221;2&#8243; divider_color=&#8221;accent-color&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;3&#8243;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;#2. ICYMI: Grief Awareness&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h2|text_align:center&#8221; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Domine%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal&#8221; css=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]<span class=\"TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW62811136 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-CA\" xml:lang=\"EN-CA\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW62811136 BCX8\"><strong>Description<\/strong>: <\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW62811136 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-CA\" xml:lang=\"EN-CA\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW62811136 BCX8\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264454875 BCX0\">Despite the fact that it affects us all, grief can be an incredibly lonely and confusing experience. We\u2019re often uncomfortable and unsure about how to deal with our own grief and how to support others in theirs. <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW62811136 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-CA\" xml:lang=\"EN-CA\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW62811136 BCX8\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264454875 BCX0\">Join <\/span><span class=\"SpellingError SCXW264454875 BCX0\">CloudMD<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW264454875 BCX0\"> this month to learn more about grief, including debunking common myths; tips for navigating grief; and things to keep in mind when supporting others. Participants will be equipped with knowledge and skills to foster a more grief-literate, compassionate, and understanding environment.<\/span><\/span><\/span><span class=\"LineBreakBlob BlobObject DragDrop SCXW62811136 BCX8\"><br class=\"SCXW62811136 BCX8\" \/><\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"TextRun MacChromeBold SCXW62811136 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-CA\" xml:lang=\"EN-CA\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW62811136 BCX8\">Ask an Expert Question:<\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"TextRun SCXW62811136 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-CA\" xml:lang=\"EN-CA\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW62811136 BCX8\">\u201c<span class=\"TextRun SCXW241390292 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-CA\" xml:lang=\"EN-CA\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW241390292 BCX0\">My dad recently died, and I feel lost. I don\u2019t know how I should feel or what I should do. And I don\u2019t know who to turn to; everyone around me seems to have moved on and to think I should do the same. How do I get through this?\u201d<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Date<\/strong>: This was November&#8217;s webinar, but you can still access the recording.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;center&#8221; row_position=&#8221;default&#8221; row_position_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; row_position_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; pointer_events=&#8221;all&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][nectar_btn size=&#8221;small&#8221; open_new_tab=&#8221;true&#8221; button_style=&#8221;regular-tilt&#8221; button_color=&#8221;Extra-Color-1&#8243; icon_family=&#8221;fontawesome&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews-button&#8221; text=&#8221;Access the Recording&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/register.gotowebinar.com\/register\/8426175965902828890&#8243; icon_fontawesome=&#8221;fa fa-desktop&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_color=&#8221;rgba(113,199,216,0.1)&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;center&#8221; row_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; row_border_radius_applies=&#8221;bg&#8221; overflow=&#8221;visible&#8221; advanced_gradient_angle=&#8221;0&#8243; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; gradient_type=&#8221;default&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_tablet=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_phone=&#8221;inherit&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; column_element_direction_desktop=&#8221;default&#8221; column_element_spacing=&#8221;default&#8221; desktop_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_backdrop_filter=&#8221;none&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_position=&#8221;default&#8221; gradient_direction=&#8221;left_to_right&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; border_type=&#8221;simple&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;11767&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;entrance&#8221; animation=&#8221;None&#8221; animation_movement_type=&#8221;transform_y&#8221; hover_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; alignment=&#8221;&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;custom&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; top_left_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; top_right_border_radius=&#8221;20&#8243; image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews-banner&#8221;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;We welcome your questions &amp; feedback!&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h2|text_align:center&#8221; google_fonts=&#8221;font_family:Domine%3Aregular%2C700|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal&#8221;][vc_column_text el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221;]please write to us:<a href=\"mailto:admin@elcicgsi.ca\"> admin@elcicgsi.ca<\/a><br \/>\nor call toll free: 1-877-352-4247 (in Winnipeg 204-984-9181)<br \/>\ninformation and resources can also be found on the <a href=\"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\">GSI website<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Topics include: Tip re: December deadlines, Advanced Study Grants Deadline and DMin Report, Self-Care Reminder, Biosimilar Drugs in Manitoba, and Webinars on Holiday Money Management and Grief Awareness<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":10965,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[31],"post_folder":[22,18],"class_list":{"0":"post-11795","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-planmembers","8":"tag-benefits"},"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Benefits-News.jpeg?ver=1727747897","author_info":{"display_name":"Faithful Servant","author_link":"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/?author=13"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11795","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/13"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=11795"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11795\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/10965"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=11795"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=11795"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=11795"},{"taxonomy":"post_folder","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dev.elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fpost_folder&post=11795"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}