{"id":12745,"date":"2025-10-08T01:00:06","date_gmt":"2025-10-08T06:00:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?p=12745"},"modified":"2025-10-11T18:57:31","modified_gmt":"2025-10-11T23:57:31","slug":"october-2025-benefits-news","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?p=12745","title":{"rendered":"October 2025 Benefits News"},"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;12747&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#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;][\/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:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?p=12745#manulife\">Manulife and HCSA Balances<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?p=12745#tips\">Tips from Barb: EOY Benefits Module Selection<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?p=12745#women\">Women&#8217;s History Month<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?p=12745#recipe\">Good Eats: Broccoli Cheddar Soup<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?p=12745#webinars\">Kii Webinar: Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction<\/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(113,199,216,0.1)&#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;manulife&#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; 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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;HCSA Balances and Dates&#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;]<a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/problemsolving.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-12756 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/problemsolving-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/problemsolving-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/problemsolving-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/problemsolving.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a>Manulife is aware of an intermittent issue with the Health Care Spending Account (HCSA) in which balances and dates may appear to be incorrect.<\/p>\n<p>Manulife is actively working to resolve this issue.[\/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(113,199,216,0.1)&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;0&#8243; left_padding_desktop=&#8221;5&#8243; right_padding_desktop=&#8221;0&#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;tips&#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; 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image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#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; 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;End-of-Year Benefits Module Selection&#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;]<a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/example3.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-9487 size-medium alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/example3-300x202.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"202\" srcset=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/example3-300x202.png 300w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/example3-600x403.png 600w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/example3-400x269.png 400w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/example3.png 652w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">As the year comes to a close, members will have the opportunity to review their benefits and choose a benefits module that will take effect on <strong>January 1, 2026<\/strong>.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Members wishing to make a change may move to an adjacent module (e.g., from Green to Teal) by completing a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/ELCIC-Group-Benefits-Enrollment-form.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Group Benefits Enrollment Form<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and submitting it to the GSI office no later than Monday, <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">December 1, 2025.<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Health module premiums will be available on the GSI website in early November, assisting you and your congregation to consider cost when making your decision.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Please note that if you change modules, your claims history will carry forward. This means that benefits with maximums extending beyond single year (e.g., vision care with a 24-month limit) will not reset when moving to a different module in the future.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\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; column_direction_tablet=&#8221;default&#8221; column_direction_phone=&#8221;default&#8221; bg_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#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;women&#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; 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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;][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_1753929185790{margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; 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image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;entrance&#8221; animation=&#8221;None&#8221; animation_movement_type=&#8221;transform_y&#8221; hover_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;Celebrating Achievements of Women and Girls&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h1|font_size:22px|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_1759292568187{margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 9px !important;}&#8221;][\/vc_column_inner][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_column_text css=&#8221;.vc_custom_1759627984947{margin-right: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;margin-left: 0px !important;border-right-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;border-left-width: 0px !important;padding-right: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;padding-left: 0px !important;}&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]October is Women\u2019s History Month, first recognized by the Canadian government in 1992. It is a time to celebrate the achievements of women and girls in Canada.<\/p>\n<h3>Women&#8217;s History in Canada<\/h3>\n<p>Women\u2019s History Month celebrates the many accomplishments of women in Canada\u2019s social, cultural, economic and political life. It also recognizes the fight for gender equality, including the historic \u201cPersons Case\u201d decision on October 18, 1929, which affirmed women as \u201cpersons\u201d under the law.<\/p>\n<p>The month highlights the<strong> diverse experiences of women<\/strong>, especially across race, class and culture, while also focusing on the <strong>barriers that still need to be removed<\/strong>. It is a chance to inspire future generations of women and girls. Key dates include International Day of the Girl on October 11 and Persons Day on October 18.<\/p>\n<h3>Women in the ELCIC<\/h3>\n<p>It&#8217;s also a good time to remember Rev. Pamela J. McGee, the <strong>first woman ordained<\/strong> into the Lutheran Church of America-Canada section, one of the two denominations that would merge a decade later to form the ELCIC. In May 1976, she was ordained to serve the Morrisburg-Riverside parish along the St. Lawrence River in Eastern Ontario. A month later, the Evangelical Lutheran Church Canada would also vote to ordain women.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_4115.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-12774 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_4115-300x195.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"195\" srcset=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_4115-300x195.jpg 300w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_4115-1024x664.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_4115-768x498.jpg 768w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/IMG_4115.jpg 1179w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a>How things have changed in 49 years! Not only are a <strong>substantial percentage of our rostered leaders now women<\/strong>, but our first female National Bishop (Bishop Susan Johnson) has recently retired, two female <strong>synodical bishops<\/strong> completed terms, and three women bishops (Bishop Carla Blakley, Bishop Trish Schmermund, and Bishop Kathy Martin) are <strong>currently serving<\/strong> the Eastern, ABT, and BC Synods. At our <strong>seminaries<\/strong>, Rev. Dr. Faith Rohrbough served as President at Lutheran Theological Seminary Saskatoon for eight years, and Rev. Dr. Kristine Lund is currently serving as Principal-Dean at Martin Luther University College. Many other female rostered leaders have served and are serving as Assistants to the Bishop, Seminary Deans and Professors, and Campus Ministry Chaplains.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Non-rostered women leaders are invaluable<\/strong> as Music Directors, Board Chairs of congregations and of ELCIC-affiliated organizations, synodical and congregational staff, and youth leaders. They also play key roles in the life of our congregations.[\/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(135,185,67,0.02)&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;20&#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;recipe&#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;12762&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#8221; animation_type=&#8221;entrance&#8221; animation=&#8221;None&#8221; animation_movement_type=&#8221;transform_y&#8221; hover_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; image_loading=&#8221;default&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221;][vc_custom_heading text=&#8221;Broccoli Cheddar Soup&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h1|font_size:22px|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_1759276764570{margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;padding-bottom: 5px !important;}&#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_1759291201324{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-right: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;padding-left: 20px !important;}&#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;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]<a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/BroccoliSoup.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12749 size-medium alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/BroccoliSoup-262x300.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"262\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/BroccoliSoup-262x300.png 262w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/BroccoliSoup-768x879.png 768w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/BroccoliSoup.png 884w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 262px) 100vw, 262px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\">As we move into October and temperatures begin to dip, this delicious soup will warm you up while nourishing your body.<\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Ingredients<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:480,&quot;335559739&quot;:480,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>4\u202ftablespoons unsalted butter<br \/>\n1\u202fmedium yellow onion,\u202fchopped<br \/>\n\u00bd\u202fteaspoon\u202fsea salt<br \/>\nFreshly ground black pepper<br \/>\n3\u202fgarlic cloves,\u202fchopped<br \/>\n\u00bc\u202fcup\u202fall-purpose flour<br \/>\n2\u202fcups\u202fwhole milk or unsweetened\u202falmond milk<br \/>\n2\u202fcups\u202fvegetable broth<br \/>\n3\u202fcups\u202fchopped broccoli florets<br \/>\n1\u202flarge carrot,\u202fjulienned or finely chopped<br \/>\n\u00bd\u202fteaspoon\u202fDijon mustard<br \/>\n8\u202founces\u202fshredded cheddar cheese (about 2 heaping cups)<\/p>\n<p><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Instructions<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335557856&quot;:16777215,&quot;335559738&quot;:480,&quot;335559739&quot;:480,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Melt the butter in a large pot or\u202fDutch oven\u202fover medium heat.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Add the onion, salt, and several grinds of pepper and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes, or until softened.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, then sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the flour turns golden. <\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"none\">Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously.<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Add the broth, broccoli, carrot, and mustard and stir to combine. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.<\/li>\n<li>Gradually add the cheese, stirring after each addition, until all the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Season to taste and serve with croutons, if desired.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n[\/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;20&#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;webinars&#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;12761&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#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; 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;center&#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;Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction&#8221; font_container=&#8221;tag:h1|font_size:22px|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_1759432371547{margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/burnout.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-12759 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/burnout-251x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"251\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/burnout-251x300.jpg 251w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/burnout-768x918.jpg 768w, https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/burnout.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 251px) 100vw, 251px\" \/><\/a>Theme<\/strong>: Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Expert<\/strong>: Dr. Kayleigh-Ann Clegg, PhD<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Ask an Expert Question \/ Concern<\/strong>: \u201cI am beyond stressed at work and probably on the verge of burnout. When I come home, I can\u2019t stop thinking about work. When I go to bed, my mind won\u2019t stop racing and I wake up before my alarm thinking about work issues. It\u2019s like I can\u2019t turn the worry off. Is there anything I can do?\u201d<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><strong>Description<\/strong>: We all experience stress; it\u2019s normal, often temporary, and can even be helpful on occasion. Chronic stress, however, can<strong> strain our relationships<\/strong>, <strong>interfere with our ability to function<\/strong> and work productively, and even cause or <strong>worsen physical illness and mental health concerns<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">Join CloudMD this month to learn about <strong>mindfulness, an effective tool for managing stress<\/strong>. We\u2019ll explore different ways to practice mindfulness and provide practical tools, tips, and strategies you can use in everyday life. Participants will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to create a personalized mindfulness practice that fits their lifestyle and needs.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Date<\/strong>: Wednesday, October 15, 2025<br \/>\n<strong>Time<\/strong>: 12:00 \u2013 12:30 PM ET[\/vc_column_text][nectar_btn size=&#8221;small&#8221; open_new_tab=&#8221;true&#8221; button_style=&#8221;regular-tilt&#8221; button_color=&#8221;Accent-Color&#8221; icon_family=&#8221;fontawesome&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews-button&#8221; text=&#8221;Register for Webinar&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/attendee.gotowebinar.com\/register\/6410663406467017305&#8243; icon_fontawesome=&#8221;fa fa-wpforms&#8221;][vc_column_text css=&#8221;&#8221; el_class=&#8221;enews&#8221; text_direction=&#8221;default&#8221;]The recording will be available after the live webinar; register at the same link to see it.[\/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(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; id=&#8221;Contact&#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;12556&#8243; image_size=&#8221;full&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; max_width_mobile=&#8221;default&#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; 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:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\">GSI website<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Topics: Manulife HCSA balances, Tip on benefits module selection, Women&#8217;s Health Month, Broccoli cheddar soup recipe, Webinar on mindfulness<\/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-12745","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:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Benefits-News.jpeg?ver=1727747897","author_info":{"display_name":"Faithful Servant","author_link":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/?author=13"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12745","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/13"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=12745"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12745\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/10965"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=12745"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=12745"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=12745"},{"taxonomy":"post_folder","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/elcicgsi.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fpost_folder&post=12745"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}