Providence’ a successful starting point in giving

Second of two columns on a synodwide planned-giving initiative, by the Rev. James Leistikow, ELCA giving specialist

Art and Grace have always tried to be good Lutherans and disciples of Jesus Christ. They have enjoyed the friendship and support of their pastors and other church members. They have served in leadership positions in their congregation, have been active participants in many projects, and have been faithful stewards of the financial resources God has provided
 them.

Their ministry and support also extends to their 
community, its agencies and institutions. Art and Grace have
 lived their lives aligned with biblical stewardship, recognizing
 that all we have comes from God, that generosity reflects 
God’s goodness, and that all of us can make a difference for 
God’s work to continue.

They had wondered about planning how their assets might be distributed and shared at the end of life so that they might continue to make a difference for God’s kingdom. They wanted to share a substantial portion of their blessings with their children. But they knew they were called to more than that. Assisted by an attorney and other planning professionals, they established a plan to distribute their assets in a tax-wise way through directives in their will. As they shared their plan, they were affirmed by family members and close friends and ultimately relieved that something which seemed illusive and complex ultimately was experienced as joy and relief.

Because their congregation had been so important in their lives, a portion of their assets was designated for the congregation in an ongoing way. A larger percentage of the remainder was designated for the trusted and well-managed endowment fund in their congregation. A smaller percentage was directed to establish a current fund to be matched by additional contributions and directed towards a new outreach ministry. Other percentages were directed to ministry institutions and agencies they had supported during their lives.

What might happen if the scenario described above would become the normative for legacy gifting and stewardship practice in all our congregations? How might our stories continue in a significant way beyond our lifetimes as they connect to what “God smiles upon?” How many new resources might become available throughout our synod for God’s work among us?
It was this driving vision behind the “Planned Giving Leadership” grant the synod has received from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Trained, supported and coached, “Planned Giving Leaders” throughout the synod can make a difference in our life together!

This February all of our congregations will be invited to attend the fourth in a series of six workshops offered in seven locations throughout our synod. Workshop No. 4 will feature the “Seven P’s Minus One.” Those are providence, prayer, people, property, plan, professionals and the minus, procrastination.

Workshop No. 4 will introduce some creative and new planning tools on the Internet and a process for identifying essential professionals, especially attorneys, for planning in every congregation. All are welcome. Those who have attended earlier workshops will receive invitations via e-mail. There will also be a link to access registration on the Synod’s website.

Times and locations to come.