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Patrick Cheng
Senior Vice President, Client Benefits and Education Compliance, Church Pension Group
Professional Background
Patrick Cheng is a distinguished Episcopal priest, attorney, and theologian who has dedicated many years to both spiritual and legal service. Currently, he serves in a pivotal role as the Senior Vice President of Client Benefits and Education Compliance at the Church Pension Group. This organization is the national pension fund and employee benefits organization of the Episcopal Church, playing a crucial part in supporting the clergy and lay employees of the church. Patrick's responsibilities involve ensuring that clients receive the necessary benefits and educational compliance needed to thrive in their roles within the church community.
In addition to his impactful position at the Church Pension Group, he also contributes to the spiritual growth of his congregation as the Theologian in Residence at Saint Thomas Church Fifth Avenue, located in the heart of Manhattan. This prestigious role enables Patrick to engage with parishioners and the broader community, offering theological insights while fostering a deeper understanding of the church's mission.
Education and Achievements
Patrick Cheng's educational background is extensive and impressive, laying a solid foundation for his dual career in law and theology. He earned his Doctor of Jurisprudence from Harvard University, one of the world's leading law schools, where he honed his legal expertise. His academic journey continued at Union Theological Seminary, where he pursued a Master of Arts and later a Doctor of Philosophy. This combination of legal and theological education equips Patrick with a unique perspective on the intersection of faith, the law, and social justice. He also studied at Yale University, further enriching his academic qualifications.
Throughout his career, Patrick has achieved numerous milestones, from leading initiatives that enhance employee benefits for clergy to engaging in theological discussions that resonate with contemporary issues facing faith communities. His commitment to both the legal profession and the Episcopal Church sets him apart as a thought leader who embodies the integration of faith and reason.
Achievements
Patrick Cheng has made significant contributions to the Episcopal Church and the communities he serves. In his role at the Church Pension Group, he has been instrumental in developing and implementing programs that provide essential support to clergy, enhancing their ability to serve their congregations effectively. His seamless navigation of complex regulatory environments ensures that church employees receive appropriate and compliant benefits.
As the Theologian in Residence at Saint Thomas Church Fifth Avenue, Patrick leads various educational programs and theological discussions, fostering an environment where parishioners can explore faith deeply and critically. His sermons and lectures often address relevant social issues, offering a space for dialogue that blends rigorous scholarship with practical application in everyday life.
Patrick’s work exemplifies a dedication to not just the spiritual realm but also to the ethical frameworks within which the church operates today. His extensive involvement in shaping policies within the church pension system reflects a deep commitment to the welfare of church employees, ensuring they are recognized and valued for their service. His expertise helps bridge the gap between complicated legal terms and the practical realities faced by clergy and church workers.
Patrick Cheng's journey through academia, ministry, and law establishes him as a prominent figure within the Episcopal community and beyond. His unique blend of skills facilitates constructive conversations about the role of faith in public life, the challenges of modern governance, and the responsibilities of religious institutions in a rapidly changing world. As he continues his dual path of serving in ecclesiastical and legal capacities, Patrick remains a vital resource for those seeking guidance at the intersection of faith and practice.