Legacy Giving doesn’t “just happen”
For generations, many congregations could rely on generous bequests from faithful parishioners. That is how many of our churches were built and sustained over generations: Through estate gifts offered as acts of gratitude and faith.
Those days have changed.
Today, legacy gifts do not happen automatically. People are less likely to assume their church will be part of their estate planning unless the church explicitly invites, teaches, and normalizes legacy giving. Congregations that are not treating this work seriously are, quite simply, missing out—and risking their long-term future.
The good news is that legacy giving can be reclaimed. But it requires intention, leadership, and the willingness to talk openly about faith, life, and what we leave behind.
A Lenten opportunity
Lent is the season when people are already reflecting on meaning, priorities, mortality, and hope. These are precisely the questions that open the door to conversations about legacy. If we are not engaging this work during Lent, we are missing one of the most natural windows the Church has.
This is why the Diocese of Newark is offering a three-part series on Planned Giving and Legacy Society Formation during Lent and Easter.
Who should participate?
Every congregation is asked to be represented by at least one participant, and congregations are strongly encouraged to send two or three leaders whenever possible. Clergy participation is encouraged but not required. Wardens, vestry members, and other trusted lay leaders are well suited for this work.
Experience shows that when more than one leader carries this formation, legacy giving ministries are far more likely to take root and endure.
Seasons of Generosity: Finding Joy in Legacy – A Pathway to Faithful Sustainability
Three-Part Series
Online Session 1 (Free): Thursday, March 19 at 6:30 PM
Online Session 2 (Free): Thursday, March 26 at 6:30 PM
Led by TENS Executive Director Davey Gerhard and Diocese of Newark Missioner Cynthia McChesney, the first two sessions are free online workshops focused on the theology and practice of legacy giving.
We will prepare participants for a third, in-person gathering after Easter. The in-person session will include practical guidance on legacy societies and estate planning, along with additional perspectives to help congregations turn learning into concrete next steps. More information about the in-person gathering will follow.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE FIRST TWO WEBINARS
The Cost of Doing Nothing
If congregations assume legacy gifts will simply appear, they likely will not. If churches never invite these conversations, parishioners will make other plans (or none at all). Legacy giving is not about money alone—it is about helping people align their faith, their values, and their hopes for their church’s future.
This Lent, don’t miss out on this opportunity.
-Cynthia
P.S. Still wonder if it’s right for you? Give me a call at 973-430-9909 or send me an email to cmcchesney@dioceseofnewark.org and we can discuss!
