We are not owners of the gifts and resources with which God has blessed us, but merely stewards. We came into the world with nothing, but we leave having had the opportunity to make a contribution to the present and the future. The question is how we distribute the material wealth accumulated during our lifetime with an awareness of God's presence in our lives.

Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gifts each of you has received. I Peter 4.10

The Endowment Fund of the Diocese of Southwestern Virginia comprises a cluster of seven funds for future ministry:

• Bishop Marmion Resource Center (BMRC) Fund
• College Endowment Fund
• New Work Endowment Fund
• Grace House Learning and Training Center Endowment Fund
• Phoebe Needles Center Endowment Fund
• Stewardship of Bricks and Mortar Fund
• Youth Endowment Fund

BMRC Endowment Fund - It is important that our parishes have access to a variety of resources in one central location. The BMRC has the ability to provide consultants, speakers, and trainers to work directly with parishes. Books, video tapes, curriculum samples, kits, and puppets are available to help develop parish programs and styles of learning.

What is Planned Giving?

Planned giving refers to gifts made from assets accumulated during one's lifetime rather than from current income.