Legacy Giving Ministry at St. John's
“The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit.” (Nelson Henderson)
"All you have shall some day be given; therefore give now, that the season of giving may be yours and not your inheritors'." (Kahlil Gibran)
Making a legacy gift is a powerful witness of faith, love and gratitude. This type of gift recognizes the heritage left by those who came before us, and acknowledges that we bear a responsibility to future generations to insure the continuation of God’s work within and beyond St. John’s.
How will my gift be used?
In order to be faithful stewards of all that Christ has given us, St. John’s has established a Permanent Endowment Fund. This fund and its operation are managed by the parish Endowment Committee with oversight by the Vestry, in accordance with the parish bylaws. The “principal” of the endowment gifts are permanent and only a small fixed percentage may be used at the discretion of the Vestry. The funds are carefully invested and accumulated earnings are used for purposes beyond those of the annual operating budget.
Should I leave a legacy gift to St. John’s?
A legacy gift is often the largest gift a person can make, so it is important to take time to make a prayerful and thoughtful consideration of the legacy you would like to leave. Individuals of all income levels make planned gifts to accomplish their charitable purposes. This type of gift speaks to intention and generosity more than net worth.
A Gift of Gratitude, a Legacy of Faith
This journey starts by reflecting with gratitude and wonder on the abundance God has bestowed upon you during your lifetime. While in the presence of God, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you the people and institutions that helped you find your purpose and gave meaning to your life. Ask yourself:
Which institutions do I want to see prosper in order to serve and uplift the next generation?
What areas of ministry resonate with my gifts and passions, and have blessed me, my family, and others?
Next, ask for the Holy Spirit’s guidance in creating a financial plan that honors these institutions and ministries. Your legacy gift will glorify God and bless others by making a difference in the future of a ministry that you have cherished and supported during your lifetime.
How do I leave a legacy gift to St. John’s?
There are many creative ways to make a legacy gift. Among them...
A. Make a bequest in your will or trust. You may choose to donate a percentage or a specific dollar amount.
B. Name the Church as a beneficiary of a life insurance policy.
C. Name the Church as a beneficiary of a retirement account (e.g. IRA, 401k or 403b).
D. Charitable gift annuity or charitable remainder trust. These types of gifts offer the donor guaranteed lifetime fixed income payments and may offer significant tax savings.
E. A charitable lead trust offers significant estate tax benefits.
F. Cash gifts. These types of gifts provide a tax deduction and are easy to make if you have liquid assets that are not needed now.
G. Appreciated stock, securities, real-estate & tangible personal property gifts may offer significant tax benefits.
*To make a legacy gift, consult with your your lawyer and/or tax/financial consultant.
Legacy gifts state that I believe my Church should continue into the future as an expression of what has been meaningful in my life and as my blessing upon the next generation.
What resources are available to help guide me through this process?
Members of St. John’s Legacy Committee
Trusted family advisors (CPA, Attorney, Financial Planner, Insurance Agent)
The Colorado Episcopal Foundation: www.coef.org or 303-534-6778