The music was wonderful! While I am not a musician myself, an
appreciation of music was not lost. Watching the pianist’s fingers float
across the keys with seemingly effortlessness was joy in itself. Hearing the
music lifted my emotional level to a higher peak, as it did the rest of the
congregation. This ministry of music was greatly enjoyed on that particular
day. Other Sunday services and special events also benefited from the musical
tones emanating from this wonderful instrument. While the pianists are
talented, without “the gift of the piano itself” to the church as
a bequest, the ministry would not be the same. The thoughtfulness of the gift
was tremendous and the continued ministry it provides allows the gift to be
continually enjoyed by many.
In this real situation, the gift was to a local
congregation. Other gifts have been to church campgrounds, a
specific ministry, or the church in general. Many of us are currently enjoying
the benefits of those gifts and are not aware that a gift was made to the
church in the past. It is these gifts we are now enjoying and will continue to
use into the future.
A gift to the church can take many forms including life
insurance, share certificates, various types of trusts, property (real and
personal), gift annuities, and cash bequests to name a few. Each gift is
handled somewhat differently and is suitable in certain circumstances.
Together we can explore the various types of gifts and determine what is the
most appropriate gift overall.
A common misperception that many people have is that the
gift must be $50,000.00 and larger. While it is nice for the church to receive
such a gift, it is not always feasible for people make large gifts. Gifts
can be of any size and when appropriate, a corresponding tax receipt can
be issued.
Consider making a gift to the church. Your gift, like the
piano above, can help provide a continued ministry now and well into the
future.
by Ken McGowan
Estate and Financial Planning Ministries
A representative from Estate and Financial Planning
Ministries is available to work with you. Everything is confidential. There is
no obligation and nothing to buy. Contact us at efpm@CofChrist.org,
or call 1-800-884-7526 (1-877-526-7526 in Canada).
Return to the Estate and Financial Planning Ministries Reading
Room.
