Update:  This story created some confusion due to a misunderstanding about the means by which the cancelation of the property, causality and liability group policy (including the directors’ and officers’ policy) takes place. It has become our clear understanding that because the policy is not just in the name of the diocese, but the names of the individual parishes, the parishes themselves must apply for cancelation. We have already created a new group policy, and encourage parishes to gain the benefits of joining it. As a result of this clarification, we will have form letters on hand for those parishes who elect to cancel available on Saturday, April 12.

After examining diocesan group insurance policies in light of current costs and needs, the administration of the diocese determined that shifting providers would be in the interest of good stewardship, resulting in substantial savings (20 percent or more) being passed on to churches participating in group coverage.  In addition, the change enables local representation and provides stability of coverage as the diocese considers realigning to another province of the Anglican Communion.

“Churches whose insurance was previously provided through Church Insurance Corporation (Liberty Mutual) or Church Insurance of Vermont should not be alarmed by the cancelation of these policies,” assured Marsha Tallant, Diocesan CFO and Director of Administration.  “Other agencies have been bound to provide insurance for the group, with no gap in coverage.”

An important meeting will be held on April 12 at Trinity Cathedral (2nd floor) from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for representatives from any parish affected by the shift in providers, or anyone interested in the new coverage.

-Updated April 10, 2008 -