What Is a Ministry as a Next Steward?
When people think about leaving an inheritance, they usually picture family. In this episode, the conversation turns to a different kind of steward: a ministry or nonprofit that can carry forward a purpose beyond a single life. The discussion begins by asking the same question that many give to a person: What do I hope these resources will accomplish after I’m gone?
Purpose Before the Amount
Sharon Epps reminds listeners that the first step is to clarify the purpose of the gift. She asks,
What do I hope these resources will accomplish or make possible?The idea is that a ministry that shares that purpose can translate the giver’s intent into concrete action. The conversation highlights the need to match the ministry’s mission with the specific impact the giver desires, rather than simply choosing a well‑known organization.
Testing a Ministry’s Readiness
Choosing a ministry involves more than mission alignment. The talk moves to practical questions about leadership integrity, financial transparency, and governance. A key strategy mentioned is the “test gift” approach—starting with a smaller contribution to observe how the ministry handles the money, communicates with donors, and integrates the gift into its operations. This step can reveal whether the ministry has the systems and people to manage a larger, long‑term legacy.
Restricted or Unrestricted?
Once a ministry’s readiness is established, the next decision is whether to give unrestricted or restricted funds. An unrestricted gift offers the ministry flexibility to address its most pressing needs, while a restricted gift allows the giver to direct resources toward a specific program or project. The conversation explores how to weigh the desire for targeted impact against the ministry’s overall health and adaptability, and how to use dialogue with ministry leaders to uncover the best fit for each situation.
Timing: Living Gifts vs Estate Plans
The episode contrasts giving during one’s lifetime with leaving a gift through an estate plan. A living gift lets the giver see the immediate effects of generosity and build a relationship with the ministry. An estate gift can provide a lasting legacy but requires careful documentation and periodic review. The discussion emphasizes the importance of clear communication with the ministry about intentions and expectations, ensuring that the gift is used in a way that honors both the giver’s wishes and the ministry’s mission.
For those curious about how to start this process, the conversation offers practical tools and thoughtful questions that can help anyone consider a ministry as a next steward. To hear the full discussion and the deeper insights behind each point, listen to the complete FaithFi episode.