Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the DR Endowment Fund
Jason and Beth HynesWhy did you choose to become a Legacy Circle member?
We chose to become legacy circle members of Divine Redeemer because we felt it was one of the best ways that we could pay it forward. Our two kids had such a positive experience at DR, from daycare through eighth grade, that we wanted to help give other families the same opportunity we had.
Having a strong endowment fund at Divine Redeemer is critical to our long-term survival. It enhances our ability to compete, provide Christian education, and provide our community with a safe place to grow their faith, hear the truth about our Lord and Savior, and get involved through Bible studies, mission work, and many other ministry opportunities.
What would you like to say to other people who are (or should be ) thinking about Eternity Giving and the DR Endowment Fund?
For those in our congregation that are thinking about making a donation to the DR endowment fund, now or in the future, we say - “Make it happen. It’s an excellent way to pay it forward. Our church and school do so many great things and by making a small commitment we can ensure that many others get to hear the good news about Jesus Christ for years to come.
Bob and Jay MikulecWhy did you choose to become a Legacy Circle member?
HIGHLIGHTING NEW LEGACY CIRCLE MEMBERS - OCTOBER EDITION
Ron and Stacy Bader
Why did you choose to become a Legacy Circle member?
God has done amazing things at Divine Redeemer. He has grown Divine Redeemer in a relatively short time span from infancy in the basement of a local bank to a sprawling campus today with a membership of well over 1,000 and a K-8 school. In pursuing its mission of making known the love of God in Christ Jesus to its members and guests, Divine Redeemer has touched countless lives in an ever-widening ripple. Personally, Stacy and I have experienced significant growth in our own faith lives in our almost fifteen years as DR Members. When we think of the impact our Savior has had at DR over the last 50 years, we can’t help but think of the impact He can have in sharing the Gospel over the next 50 years and beyond.
Stacy and I have had vague thoughts and ideas on legacy gifting to the church over the past years. However, it wasn’t until we became involved and familiar with the Endowment Fund that the pieces came together. The Endowment Fund is a perpetual fund benefiting DR and its mission that consists of “gifts that keep on giving”. Joining the Legacy Circle allowed us to formalize our desire to provide long-term support in sharing about the saving grace of Jesus beyond our earthly lives.
Why is having an endowment important to DR?
While DR’s Endowment Fund is in its infancy, we are already starting to see some of the benefits with its first two Grants made this year – a $2,500 scholarship towards Lake Country Lutheran tuition which was granted to a deserving student and a $2,500 grant to A Place of Refuge, one of our quarterly mission partners. The purpose of the Endowment Fund is to provide support for DR and Christian Ministries above and beyond programs supported through regular offerings all for the sole purpose of bringing people to the love of Jesus Christ. The perpetual nature of the Endowment Fund, where grants and program support are limited to income, will provide an ongoing opportunity for the fund to grow, not only through additional gifts but also through investment performance. The Endowment Fund has grown meaningfully over the past several years through a number of living and legacy gifts and we are truly excited for the Endowment Fund to grow its impact in the Great Commission (Matthew 28: 16-20) for future generations.
What would you like to say to other people who are (or should be) thinking about Eternity Giving and the DR Endowment Fund?
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2nd Corinthians 9:7
“But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:20-21
God has blessed each and every one of us richly in our own ways with what is His in the first place. We can think of few greater gifts to our brothers, sisters, and children in Christ than playing a small and easy part in ensuring the salvation of future generations.
Angela and Derek FischerWhy did you choose to become a Legacy Circle member?
We are both born and raised Lutheran’s. Both products of local Lutheran grade schools, Lutheran high school and Lutheran college for Derek. We have been blessed to know Jesus our entire lives and it is important to Derek and I to leave a lasting impact and to support DR’s church and school missions for future generations. We also want to model volunteering and giving to our children in hopes we inspire them to do the same. We are committed to leaving a faithful legacy and that brings peace and fulfillment.
Why is having an endowment important to DR?
This is a great way to make a lasting impact and ensure the mission and ministry of Divine Redeemer continues to thrive.
What would you like to say to other people who are (or should be) thinking about Eternity Giving and the DR Endowment Fund?
Becoming a Legacy Circle member is a deeply personal decision, driven by faith, gratitude, and a desire to make a difference. If you’re considering it, we encourage you to seek guidance from an estate planning professional to explore the best options for your situation so your legacy continue to bless others.
By being a part of the Legacy Circle, it reflects your commitment to stewardship. It’s a way of saying, “I want to use the resources God has entrusted to me to further His work.”