While the Corporation for the Relief of Widows, Widowers and Children of the Clergy (CWWC) of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the State Of New Jersey has existed for more than two centuries, it has not been widely publicized in the Diocese of Newark. The following questions and answers address the most common inquiries about the Corporation. Attached below is the application to become a contributor.
If you have questions about the program, please do not hesitate to contact CFO Sam Reckford at sreckford@dioceseofnewark.org or at 973-430-9988.
What is its purpose?
The Corporation was established as a New Jersey Corporation in 1807 to provide financial assistance to widows, widowers and children upon the death of the clergy of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the State of New Jersey. Domestic partner participation was added in 1997.
Who may participate?
Any clergy – presbyters and deacons – of the church (not over 55 years of age at the time of application) who have been for a period of not less than one year canonically, and actually resident, within the State of New Jersey may become contributors. Membership continues even if the contributor moves out of state, as long as the first three years of membership occur within the State of New Jersey.
What is the annual cost to contributors?
The annual contribution is $20. There are provisions for penalties and defaults on contributions, as well as moving from the state and retiring from active ministry.
What are the benefits?
A surviving spouse/domestic partner/civil union partner receives an annual annuity of $120 for life, with additional payments of $60 each for minor child to the age of 21. In addition, the surplus income of the Fund is divided among the beneficiaries of deceased contributors. Thus, in 2016, the total payment per beneficiary was $120 (required payment) plus $892 (surplus distribution) for a total distribution of $1,012. We anticipate that this amount will increase in the future. A modest death benefit is paid to the estate of those that die without leaving a spouse/partner or minor children.
The application form is attached. Complete the application and mail it to Corporation for the Relief of Widows, Widowers, and Children, c/o Episcopal Diocese of New Jersey, 808 West State Street, Trenton, New Jersey 08618-5326.
