EF 2970 The Ministry of WELS Planned Giving

Abstract

Chip Wilke’s essay provides an overview of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod’s (WELS) ministry of planned giving, based on research and an interview with a WELS counselor. Established by synod resolution, the ministry aims to serve members with the Gospel, encourage generosity, and assist in making planned gifts to congregations, synod, and affiliated agencies. A planned gift is defined as any carefully considered donation—current or deferred—that involves professional or advisory assistance and aligns with estate and financial planning. Wilke highlights the ministry’s value in offering Christian stewardship guidance from counselors who share WELS beliefs and motivations. The essay notes that seventeen counselors, including pastors, teachers, and laymen, serve across twelve districts and meet regularly for study, skill development, and fellowship. Wilke concludes by affirming the ministry’s role in supporting missions and other church work, and shares his personal experience of receiving help in preparing a will. —Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)