In order for most traditional churches to function, they depend on the generosity of their parishioners in the form of pledges. What would it look like if some were to guarantee their annual pledge in perpetuity? In An "Endow your Pledge" Campaign, Deborah Kelly shares how her church educated and invited parishioners to think about endowing their pledge.

In No Endowment Fund Means Just That, Ken Quigley discusses how important it is to have an endowment structure in place. Conversely, by not doing that important work ahead of time, he warns us how churches might lose out on receiving potential gifts, thereby limiting the potential of someone to bless their current and future church family with a legacy gift.

Erin Weber-Johnson tells a compelling story and ponders what gift-giving policies faith communities have in Are We Prepared to Receive?. Does your church make it difficult or easy for someone to donate? This quick read may help a discerning parish figure out what areas they might need to address to make giving easy and affirming.

In Administering Charitable Endowments, Attorney David Leibell shares great insight on how important it is for churches to manage their endowment responsibly. Is your vestry familiar with the laws and regulations concerning endowments? Understanding the governance of charitable giving is important so churches can avoid making mistakes that could cost them a lot of money and aggravation.

Richelle Thompson draws a parallel between fine china and church endowments in Fine China and Lace Ladies. What is your attitude about your fine china? Does it go unused in the china cabinet? What attitude does your church have toward its endowment? How are you using it? Are you keeping it locked away? To what end?