You may have read that we are in the midst of the greatest transfer of wealth in history. As one generation reaches the end of their earthly life journey (many of whom have been faithful pillars who sustained our churches and their ministries), their legacy will be shaped by how we remember their contributions and how we offer opportunities to extend that generosity through a final gift that carries ministry forward.
Unfortunately, many local church leaders feel uncomfortable or unprepared to talk about legacy giving (and some are uncomfortable talking about giving at all).
A consensus among charitable fundraisers is that people give from three “pockets”: income, assets, and legacy. Most weekly offerings come from income. Special campaigns may draw from assets. But it’s the legacy pocket—bequests, wills, and estate planning—that offers churches the greatest long-term potential for sustainability.
So how can churches break the silence and change the culture around legacy giving?
Here are ten ideas to help you get started.
- Equip Yourself with the Right Tools.
If you are interested in starting a local church endowment committee or strengthening an existing one, consider getting a copy of Achieving Dreams Beyond the Budget. This comprehensive resource will be available soon as a digital download or a print-on-demand product, and it is supported by a companion webinar from Discipleship Ministries.
- Celebrate Every Legacy Gift.
Whether a bequest is $500 or $50,000, acknowledge it publicly—with permission—in worship, bulletins, or newsletters. You send a message to the congregation that these gifts matter and will be stewarded with care and gratitude.
- Start a Legacy Society.
You don’t need a large gift or a lawyer to begin. Simply invite members to notify the church that they’ve included it in their will. Recognize them annually or through a simple event and let others know how to join.
- Share Member Stories and Testimonies.
Invite respected church members to share—either in worship or a newsletter—why they decided to include the church in their estate plans. Personal witness carries more weight than promotional materials ever will.
- Use the Bulletin and Newsletter for Gentle Reminders.
Include legacy giving language periodically in worship folders, church emails, or seasonal stewardship messages. Example: “Have you considered including [Your Church’s Name] in your will or estate plan?”
- Incorporate Legacy Giving in Stewardship Materials.
On commitment cards or giving brochures, add a simple checkbox: “I have included the church in my will” or “Please send me information about legacy giving.” Normalizing legacy giving makes it easier for people to say “yes.”
- Host an Estate Planning Workshop.
Partner with a trusted local estate planner or foundation representative to offer a free session. Focus on wills, healthcare proxies, and charitable bequests—no pressure, just practical help.
- Preach and Teach on Biblical Legacy.
Use texts like Proverbs 13:22 (“A good person leaves an inheritance…”) or 1 Timothy 6:19 (“…lay up treasure as a firm foundation for the coming age…”) to show how planning for legacy is part of faithful living.
- Tell a Great Story, Even If It’s Not Your Own.
If your church hasn’t yet received a legacy gift, borrow a story from another United Methodist congregation that has. A compelling example can move people from “maybe someday” to “why not now?”
- Get Professional Help.
In our Methodist family, United Methodist Foundations serve churches within a conference region. These professionals are people of faith who are committed to the church. They can provide expert help as you encourage your members to make legacy and planned gifts. If you don’t have a relationship with your local foundation, reach out to them at http://naumf.org/locations.
Talking about legacy giving doesn’t have to be awkward, morbid, or uncomfortable. When we frame it as a continuation of a life lived generously and faithfully, it becomes a sacred conversation—one that points toward hope, mission, and future discipleship. You don’t need to be an expert to start the dialogue. You just need to create space, offer a few gentle invitations, and trust that God is already stirring hearts. The seeds you plant today may grow into ministries that bless your church for generations to come.
Rev. Ken Sloane, Director, Stewardship & Generosity, Discipleship Ministries
United Methodist Church Giving is about people working together to accomplish something bigger than themselves. In so doing, we effect change around the world, all in the name of Jesus Christ.
