Planned giving is more than a financial decision—it’s a spiritual act. At its core, planned giving is the intentional act of leaving a gift to your church through a will, trust, or estate plan. Often, these gifts represent a person’s final and most meaningful expression of generosity, allowing their faith and values to continue impacting others long after they are gone. As Proverbs 13:22 reminds us, “A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children.”

Why does planned giving matter? These gifts help fund ministry beyond a person’s lifetime, create long-term sustainability for your church, and allow faithful givers to express their values in a tangible way. They provide churches the opportunity to plan for future projects and steward resources wisely. In essence, planned giving is not just about finances—it’s about leaving a lasting legacy of faith.

Despite its importance, many churches shy away from discussing planned giving. Common concerns include not wanting to pressure people, uncertainty about how to start the conversation, or the belief that members aren’t wealthy enough to participate. Yet legacy giving is about invitation, not obligation. Planned gifts come in all sizes, and what matters most is the heart behind them, not the amount.

There are also myths that often prevent churches from embracing legacy giving. Some fear that talking about estate planning will make people uncomfortable or appear greedy. In reality, when framed biblically, planned giving becomes a natural extension of discipleship—a spiritual conversation about faith and stewardship, not a financial transaction. Others think only large churches or wealthy members need to consider legacy gifts. In truth, gifts of all sizes can have a meaningful impact. Even members of modest means can leave a lasting mark through intentional planning. Finally, some believe legal expertise is necessary. While the details of estate planning require guidance, churches simply need to facilitate the conversation and provide resources.

So how can churches equip their people for legacy generosity? Start by normalizing the conversation—integrate planned giving into teaching about stewardship, giving moments, and discipleship pathways. Hosting a legacy giving workshop with a trusted advisor can help people understand options and view legacy planning as a spiritual opportunity. Sharing stories of past gifts or future possibilities—such as funding missions, scholarships, or outreach—can make the impact tangible.

Practical ways to begin include incorporating a “Legacy Moment” in a sermon, adding a note to your bulletin or email about leaving a gift to the church, and meeting with members who have expressed a desire to invest in the future. Use encouraging phrases such as, “Your generosity can fund ministry opportunities your grandchildren will benefit from,” or, “Legacy giving is a way to worship God with all He’s entrusted to you, even after you’re gone.”

As a leader, you don’t need to be an estate law expert to guide your church toward legacy-minded generosity. Start the conversation, offer next steps like workshops or guided discussions, and partner with trusted experts. And remember—you don’t have to do it alone.

Connect with our team today to learn how we can help equip your church with the tools, guidance, and confidence to foster planned giving. Get The Pastor’s Guide to Planned Giving here and start leaving a legacy that lasts.