In 2022, the Episcopal Church of the Advent established an Endowment Fund to help sustain and grow our parish's ministry for generations to come. This fund represents a long-term commitment to ensuring that our church continues to flourish.
The Endowment supports:
The ongoing care of church properties
Parish ministries and outreach
Special initiatives that go beyond what our annual operating budget can cover.
The fund is structured into two categories:
Permanent Endowment Fund - Gifts designated to be held in perpetuity. These funds are protected by law, and only a prudent portion may be distributed each year
General Endowment Fund - Unrestricted gifts, bequests or proceeds from property sales that are invested with long term growth in mind, while allowing the Vestry flexibility to use them in special circumstances.
The Endowment is overseen by a committee of parish members appointed by the vestry and also includes a diocesan financial advisor. Funds are invested with the Episcopal Church Foundation and its invest manager, State Street Global Advisors - trusted stewards who manage assets on behalf of hundreds of Episcopal congregations nationwide.
Our goal is to preserve and grow the purchasing power of the Endowment while making responsible annual distributions of 3-5% to support ministry needs.
Every new gift strengthens the future of the Church of the Advent. A larger Endowment provides a legacy of faith that future generations can build upon. Annual stewardship remains vital for the Church's daily operations, but the Endowment ensure we are prepared to grow and respond to opportunities and challenges in the years ahead.
Parishioners can participate through both direct donations and by remembing the Church in your estate planning. If you are considering a gift or including the Endowment in your estate planning, we encourage you to consult with your accountant, attorney or financial planner.
To obtain guidance or plan contributions to the Endowment Fund, please reach out to the Rev. Tina Lockett.