A Legacy of Generosity

People are often surprised to learn about the benefits of estate and financial planning, including the many ways to solve problems with business and real estate through charitable giving, the income return that charitable gift annuities provide in lieu of a reverse mortgage, and the peace of mind that setting up a trust can bring to parents and children.

The church’s Estate and Financial Planning staff offer workshops on these benefits and more at gatherings for mission centers, congregations, reunions, World Conference, etc. They are also available to meet with people individually. Participants gain insight into how they can create a lasting legacy—for themselves, their families, and the church

Lois and Bob Fetch set up a charitable remainder trust through Estate and Financial Planning Ministries.

Creating Income and Security

Bob Fetch (Independence, Missouri, USA) has firsthand experience when it comes to setting up a trust. His mother, a church member, learned about trusts in the early 1960s. Concerned about a handicapped son, she set up a trust that provided income for his care throughout his lifetime and then passed on to Bob at his brother’s death.

When Bob’s first wife passed away, he was reminded of how his mother’s careful planning for her children’s future had provided for him and his brother, even after she was no longer living. Bob later remarried and wanted to provide the same type of caring, secure future for his new family.

With the help of friends in the church who directed him to estate and financial planning professionals, he set up a living trust and a two-life charitable remainder trust that continues to provide income and security for him and his wife, Lois.

When asked what advice he would give about setting up a trust, Bob responded, “There is no reason to be afraid of learning about trusts. Once you understand the basics, you’ll have peace of mind beyond your wildest dreams. And the wonderful thing is that the Estate and Financial Planning Ministries specialists are there with you every step of the way, explaining the entire process.”

Bob continued, “You never have to be afraid of asking them questions. They are always there to help you.”

Bob is quick to stress that everyone should learn the benefits of a trust. It is truly peace of mind for the present and the future. And while others will also benefit someday, he and his family benefit in significant ways now. He should know—more than 40 years later, he still benefits from the trust his mother took the time to establish.

What are your plans for God’s gifts? Do you have questions about retirement planning, estate planning, giving methods, long-term care, problem solving when disposing of business and real estate assets, investing, or reverse mortgages? Contact Estate and Financial Planning Ministries. Our staff can help you align your legacy with your values as a disciple of Christ.

—Sandra Ferguson reporting