In 2012 St. Peter’s launched a planned giving program.
The Lithgow Society was formed to recognize benefactors who include St. Peter’s in their estate plans. It began with several generous bequests from long-time and very active parishioners, all of whom recognized the importance of giving forward and making a permanent difference in St. Peter’s financial stability for years to come.
Why is planned giving such an important resource for St. Peter’s? Quite simply, the revenue from the annual every member canvas does not fully cover the current operating expenses of the church. In any given year, the church is vulnerable to the vicissitudes of the economy, changes in the demographics of the parish, and other unexpected circumstances beyond any individual parishioner’s control. Bequests and beneficiary designations are gifts with the greatest impact because they go into the endowment, the closest thing to permanence in the church’s financial budget. Earnings from the endowment are then used to make up the difference between the operating expenses of the church and the revenue from the every member canvas. A strong endowment is a critical tool in ensuring that we safeguard this remarkable institution for our children, and for our children’s children.
It is a part of our Anglican heritage.
After providing for your family, remembering the church in your estate plans is an important part of our tradition. The Book of Common Prayer states:
The Minister of the Congregation is directed to instruct the people, from time to time, about the duty of Christian parents to make prudent provision for the well-being of their families, and of all persons to make wills, while they are in health, arranging for the disposal of their temporal goods, not neglecting, if they are able, to leave bequests for religious and charitable uses (p. 445).
Many individuals and families have already pledged or bequeathed their final legacy.
By joining The Lithgow Society, you will play an essential role in ensuring St. Peter's continued financial health, and serve as an inspiration for others to do the same. Planned gifts can create tax savings while at the same time make meaningful contributions to benefit St. Peter's in years to come.
For further information about joining The Lithgow Society or to ask questions about how to designate St. Peter's in your estate plans please contact the Church Office. We are always happy to welcome new members and explore ideas with no obligation.
Last updated: October 23, 2023.