PLANNED GIVING

Planned giving can sound complicated or scary, and even seem intrusive, having the Church involved in personal business. It is our hope that over the next few years we can provide you with simple, easy, and private methods for protecting your family from difficult choices and tax implications. Many non-profit and educational organizations are expanding their reaches with planned giving. Christ’s Lutheran Church in Oreland hopes you will search your heart and give thoughtful prayer to your planning process. A gift to Christ’s Lutheran Church can have a powerful and lasting impact on the Church and its missions. The first thing to start thinking about in planned giving is your “will.”

The first type of “will” that should be considered is a “living will.” The reality is: we all need to think about having a “living will.” Such a “will” has the power to give directions to your family with regard to levels and types of treatment you should receive if your are involved in an accident or have an illness that is life threatening. Perhaps after the “Terri Shivo” case, you had every intention of developing a “living will” but were just not sure how to go about developing such a document, or you forgot to do it.

Second, a “traditional will” identifies where and how your estate will be distributed, can give directions to your loved ones, and can cut down on stress at the time of your death. Gifts of cash or actual property can be designated in a “will” to the Church. The gift will go into the endowment fund which will work to ensure that future generations can continue “Christ’s mission.”

Both a “living will” and a “traditional will” can be easy, but it is important that you consult your lawyer and your financial advisor to make decisions which are most appropriate for you and your family. It is important that once you have developed your “wills” you reread them each year to be sure they still match your wishes.