What is the Legacy Ministry &
Endowment Fund?

"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom.
For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you."
Luke 6:38

  A ministry established to provide members and friends of Monroe FUMC 
 with the opportunities to make charitable gifts to the church that will become 
 a permanent endowment for support of the ministries of the church.
 This insures a perpetual contribution to the ministries of the church 
 because only the income is distributed for actual use.

• In perpetuating Jesus’ charge to “go forth and make disciples".
• In the future of our church.
• That what we have is a trust from God.
• In building a sense of permanence in what we do.
• In being good stewards as a church family.
• In providing ministries that were once only dreams.

What Ministries does the Endowment Fund Support?

Charitable endowment gifts create a meaningful legacy that provide for vital ministries that may not be funded through the regular giving of our congregation.
Contributions in any amount may be designated for any one of the six established funds:

• General Endowment
  
• Worship Ministry
• Missions
• Named Fund (in memory or honor)
• Youth and Children's Ministry
• Building and Grounds 

A new fund may be named in memory or honor of a person(s) and/or for a specific purpose with an initial investment of $20,000 or more.

What Types of Assets May be Gifted?

Gifts of any size are welcome and are a tax deductible donation. Cash, insurance policies and publicly traded securities may be gifted without restriction. A 401(k) or IRA are excellent vehicles since a non-charitable heir would be taxed at regular income tax rates whereas a charitable beneficiary would not be subject to tax. Closely held securities, real property, intangible personal property and other types of property may be gifted in accordance with the Gifts Acceptance Policy.

"As the first Co-chair of our Legacy Committee, I learned firsthand what potential benefits can be derived from building a church endowment. Leaving a legacy for future generations not only provides long-term financial stability for Monroe FUMC, but more importantly demonstrates that our church believes in its future. By creating an endowment and planned giving ministry, we create a framework for inviting others into lifelong comprehensive Christian stewardship. To be a part of that ministry is personally rewarding."
- Lee Preston

In What Forms May Gifts be made to the Endowment Fund?

Gifts may be made in the form of outright gifts during your lifetime or at death through a will. An IRA or insurance policy can be conveyed with the designation of Monroe FUMC as the beneficiary. Additionally, gifts may be made through charitable trusts during your lifetime or at death. The Legacy Ministry Committee and the financial Manager can assist you in specifics of transfer.

Who Administers and Distributes the Funds?

The Monroe First United Methodist Legacy Ministry Committee administers these funds on an ongoing basis and distributions are made based on church endowment policies with the approval of church leadership. A financial report is presented to the Charge Conference each year and is included in the annual audit of church funds. 

"David & I joined First United Methodist Church of Monroe in the late summer of 2002.  We have supported our church through our service, prayers and financial giving. Tithing has always been an important facet of our faith as well as responding to God’s call to return the “first  fruits".  We tithe on everything we receive whether a gift or income. We are compelled to be generous because God has always blessed us with more than we imagined."  

 "We became aware of the Legacy Committee after a conversation one Sunday after church and shared that FUMC is a benefactor in our will, and will receive a percentage of our estate in our passing.  The Methodist Church has always proved to be good stewards of all moneys given in the name of Jesus Christ and we feel that in giving this we will be once again good stewards of all that God has blessed us. We are grateful for all the outreach in our community and our nation and internationally that the Methodist Church is a part of, and we are blessed to be a member of FUMC of Monroe. Giving back is a reflection of our grateful hearts for the gifts that we have received through our faith in Jesus Christ."                                           -David & Karen Riser

Who Manages the Investments?

The investments are professionally managed through the Georgia United Methodist Foundation in Peachtree Corners, Georgia (www.gumf.org). The Foundation also provides confidential consulting services at no charge to donors who are contemplating a planned gift to our church.

        Georgia United Methodist Foundation   
        1-877-220-5664 (toll free)     
        www.gumf.org

What is the Legacy Fellowship?

The Legacy Fellowship is composed of church members and friends who have contributed to the Endowment Fund or have indicated that they have included Monroe FUMC in their will or estate plan, whether or not their gift is designated to the Endowment Fund. Gifts may be made in honor or memory of a loved one.

An annual event recognizes their commitment to the future ministry of the church. However, this would only be done with the prior approval of the donor. The committee respects the wishes of any donor who wishes to remain anonymous.

Legacy Committee Members -or- How Can I Get More Info?

Monroe First United Methodist Church
400 South Broad Street
Monroe, GA 30655
770-267-6525
www.fumcmonroe.org