2026 Minimum Effective Salary
The Ministry Relations Committee is bringing forward updated guidelines to set the 2026 Minimum Effective Salary for ministers of Denver Presbytery at $71,000, aligning with the national PCUSA median effective salary. This recommendation reflects both the high cost of living in Denver and our ongoing commitment to ensuring that pastors are fairly compensated for their service and leadership.
The guidelines will be presented for a vote at our Presbytery Assembly on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at Montview Boulevard Presbyterian Church. In preparation, we invite all ministers, sessions, and congregational leaders to attend an informational Zoom session on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, where the Ministry Relations Committee will provide background, walk through the details, and answer questions.
Curious about the 2026 Effective Salary Recommendation?
The Ministry Relations Committee heard an Informational Session on Septemer 16th to walk through the details and answer key questions. This recommendation also includes increases to pulpit supply and session moderating.
If you were unable to attend, Watch the full recording!
Whether you’re a pastor, elder, or simply interested in how this recommendation impacts our shared ministry, this session offers helpful insights and context.
The Assembly will be voting on Ministry Relations Recommendation at our October 28, 2026 Assembly at Montview.
GRANTS & ASSISTANCE OPPORTUNITIES
The Presbytery of Denver is committed to supporting pastoral leaders and congregations through various funding opportunities. Here’s what’s currently available:
To address the rising costs of salaries and the Board of Pensions benefits pricing, the Ministry Relations Committee has approved two different mechanisms for financial support:
Pastor Leadership Compensation Assistance Policy. This will award up to three grants, each not exceeding $12,780 to help congregations ensure their pastor is receiving the minimum effective salary.
Board of Pensions Subsidy Grant. This will award eight subsidies of up to $10,000 each to congregations who are finding it difficult to meet the new Board of Pensions (BoP) dues. These funds are ONLY to be used to offset BoP dues.
See and click on images below to learn more and apply.
