​Do you have a will or a living trust?  Have you named a legal guardian for your children?  Who will act in your place if you ever become mentally incapacitated?  How will the blessings that God has entrusted to you be distributed after you go to heaven?  While nobody wants to think about death or incapacity, creating a plan to address these questions is an essential step you must take to protect yourself, your property, and your loved ones.

With whom does Christ Memorial partner?
Christ Memorial partners with Erich Faulstich, a Gift Planning Counselor with The LCMS Foundation. Erich works with Christ Memorial members on an individual basis, and begins each consultation by listening to each individual’s unique priorities. Using the information he gathers, Erich then guides and directs each individual in shaping a Lifetime Plan for Giving that fulfills personal and family goals.  This confidential service includes discussion of family matters and the challenges and opportunities involved in estate plan development.  These conversations help members understand how the benefits of charitable planning relate to personal goals.
Erich offers:

• A prayerful approach. 
• A convenient meeting time and place, usually at the individual’s home or church.
• Services free of charge. 
• Guidance and options to organize and implement a Christian estate/gift plan.
• Complete confidentiality.

What is a Lifetime Plan for Giving?
Through the step-by-step planned giving process, Erich helps establish a Lifetime Plan for Giving, which is acomplete Christian estate/gift plan that summarizes stewardship and estate planning goals. Learn more about gift planning HERE.

Is the Lifetime Plan for Giving process a valuable exercise for individuals who have already completed an estate plan?
Yes, Erich will review the current plan, which often reveals questions or details that need addressing. Some examples include:

• Are the documents up-to-date and valid?
• Does the plan include a personal statement of faith that can be used by the Holy Spirit to encourage the faith of future generations?
• Are beneficiary statements aligned with the current plan?
• Is both a financial and a medical Durable Power of Attorney included in the plan?
• In addition to ensuring alignment of goals and plans, a review process also provides a charitable perspective which often offers unrealized benefits.