Great Wealth Transfer creates opportunity for congregational planned giving

As the largest transfer of wealth in American history unfolds, experts estimate that approximately $124 trillion in assets—known as the Great Wealth Transfer—will pass from the Silent Generation and Baby Boomers to heirs and charitable organizations in the coming decades.

This presents a unique opportunity for congregations to encourage members to support gospel ministry through planned giving, ensuring their God-given blessings continue serving Christ’s kingdom long after they are called to heaven.

Two Wisconsin congregations illustrate the impact of intentional planned giving efforts.

More than 20 years ago, St. Peter, Schofield, Wis., established a planned giving committee to educate members about charitable giving opportunities. Through regular communication and guidance from WELS Ministry of Christian Giving, members learned how gifts through wills, appreciated assets, and other tools could support ministry. Recently, the congregation received gifts totaling more than $600,000 in one year, including funds to establish an endowment fund and strengthen ministry programs. “The Holy Spirit has worked miracles at St. Peter over and over again, and our members have historically been cheerful givers,” says committee member Bob Stasney.

At St. Peter, Mishicot, Wis., planned giving efforts dating back to 1999 have also produced lasting blessings. Estate gifts and endowment funds have helped finance a $1.3 million addition, fund most of a sanctuary remodeling project, support music ministries, and provide tuition assistance for students attending Lutheran schools. One endowment established by a faithful couple continues to generate annual support for ministry years after the Lord took them home.

Julia Marshall benefited from tuition assistance through planned gifts at St. Peter, Mishicot, Wis. After graduating from Martin Luther College in 2017, she and her husband, Justin, were assigned to teach at Divine Savior Academy. Doral, Fla.

Matthew Reis received tuition assistance through planned gifts at St. Peter, Mishicot. He now serves as pastor at St. Stephen, Beaver Dam, Wis.

These congregations show God’s blessings through education and thoughtful planning. Churches that regularly encourage planned gifts can help members support future ministry while expressing their faith and gratitude for all that their Savior has done for them.

Congregations interested in beginning or strengthening a planned giving ministry can find guidance through WELS Ministry of Christian Giving. The updated Planned Giving for Congregations booklet provides practical steps, tools, and examples to get started. Visit wels.net/congregationalplannedgiving to download the booklet or request a printed copy from NPH.

Watch a brief video about the blessings of planned giving at St. Peter, Schofield, Wis.