Attitude of Gratitude
1907 Annual Report
Gratitude turns what we have into enough, and more. It makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow. Melody Beattie, author
Our Mission The mission of the United Methodist Foundation of Louisiana is to be a catalyst that strengthens and preserves our current ministries while meeting the needs of a diverse and rapidly changing society.
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Attitude of Gratitude Our faith teaches us to be grateful Your United Methodist Foundation of Louisiana declares its gratefulness for the United Methodist Church, its leaders, potential leaders, and donors who leave a legacy for it to continue into the future and bless our children and grandchildren.
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From the President An attitude of gratitude has always been vital in the faith journey. The 23rd Psalm may be the most recognized passage in all of scripture. Its author, King David, had a life filled with much happiness but much pain. Yet it is his gratitude for God that he writes about. Provision (shall not want), spiritual healing (restores my soul), guidance (leads me in the paths of righteousness) and protection (prepares me a table in the presence of my enemies). Researchers find people who practice an attitude of gratitude experience a sense of abundance in their lives, improved health, better sleep, improved self-esteem, richer relationships and greater enjoyment of life’s small pleasures. We all have so many reasons to thank God, and yet it is a rare practice for many. Complaining and grumbling come all too easily for us, even in the church. Rather than look at what is lacking in our lives, let us realize that God owes us nothing and yet has graciously given us all things in Jesus Christ. Living this way requires making a habit of thanking God in all parts of our lives regularly.
Rob Fairly President/CEO
The United Methodist Foundation of Louisiana is truly blessed. We want to rejoice and give thanks to all who allow us to work together for God’s purpose. Read further to see some examples of how God blesses us all here in Louisiana. We can help you express your gratitude to God with a planned gift to help others. If you have not done so already, establish a legacy of faith gift at the Foundation. Have an attitude of gratitude. Thanks be to God from whom all blessings flow.
Rob Fairly President/CEO
“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” John F. Kennedy
Methodist Foundation of Louisiana Methodist Foundation of Louisiana 4 |United 4 |United
Our L eadership The Foundation benefits every day from the dedicated service and time devoted by the members of its Board. We are fortunate to have such thoughtful and dedicated United Methodists from across the state guiding and supporting the Foundation.
For you, we are grateful.
Executive Committee
Rev. Weldon Bares Lake Charles Chair
Omer Davis Baton Rouge Vice Chair Investment Committee
Nettles Brown Natchitoches Immediate Past Chair Investment Committee
Sandra Kuykendall Baton Rouge Secretary
Mike DeHart Lafayette Investment Chair
Rob Fairly Baton Rouge President/CEO
“Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.” Hebrews 13:7
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1907 L eadership
Dr. Debra Davis Ventress Grants Committee
Rev. Michi Head Baton Rouge Grants Chair
Bobby Fahey Baton Rouge Investment Committee Loan Committee Chair
Richard Lewis Ruston Investment Committee
Irwin Felps Baton Rouge Investment Committee
Frank Harrison, Jr. Lafayette Investment Committee
Rev. Ashley McGuire Troy Searles Alexandria Baton Rouge Grants Committee Investment Committee
Rev. Larry Stafford Monroe Loans Committee
Dean Harvey Baton Rouge Investment Committee
Dianne Wilkinson Shreveport Loans Committee
In Memoriam: Mae Belton We were deeply saddened by the September 7 death of board member Mae Belton, who died after a brief illness. Mae served on the Foundation board since 2010 and most recently as chairman of the Grants Committee. She especially loved working with grants, expressing on more than one occasion that it was gratifying to guide the decisions made relating to how the Foundation grants would benefit so many deserving ministries. “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
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The Year in Review This was a year of expressing our gratitude to Conference clergy and laity by offering many opportunities to develop leaders and strengthen the local church.
Church of the Resurrection Leadership Institute
The most sizable Foundation grant in 2018 was dedicated to sending 122 clergy and lay persons from 26 churches to attend one of the largest mainline church training events in the country: Church of the Resurrection’s Leadership Institute. The Foundation funded $120,000 to provide this opportunity.
“Wow. Leadership Insti tute was an amazing 3 days. Th e sessions were so worthwhile and will certainly benefit our ch urch.” Rev. Weldon Bares
Rev It Up!
The Foundation sponsored 122 attendees from the Louisiana Conference.
r covering the “Thank you fo e RevItUp g th cost of attendin am so Conference. I f the many o e v ti ia c re p p a h the ways in whic s clergy.” UMF support well Rev. Reyn Se
The Foundation sponsored nine clergy for this gathering of young pastors intended to strengthen personal, financial and leadership skills, improve life and sustain ministry. The attendees had the opportunity to participate in one-on-one consultations with class instructors and field experts in tax, finances, wills and estate planning. The sponsored clergy included Rev. Clair Carter, Rev. Josh Elder, Rev. Jason Harris, Rev. Michelle Harris, Rev. Amanda Price, Rev. K.C. Roberson, Rev. Reyn Sewell, Rev. Frederick Sweetwyne and Rev. Chris Winterman.
These young Louisiana clergy went home from Rev It Up! with new ideas, resources and knowledge to sustain ministry in their local United Methodist churches.
“For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is Jesus Christ.” 1 Timothy 3:13
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Courageous Leadership Imperative
Eleven of our Louisiana clergy had the opportunity to attend the Courageous Leadership Imperative in St. Louis, Missouri, funded by the Foundation. This event provided a venue for experienced clergy across the country to build relationships with younger clergy and serve as role models and mentors. Attending the Courageous Leadership Imperative: (L to R) Rev. Klay Harrison, Bishop Cynthia Harvey, Tracie Wharton, Rev. Juan Huertas, Dr. Van Stinson, Rev. Katie McKay Simpson, Rev. Matt Rawle (front), Rev. John Cannon, Rev. Leslie Stephens, Rev. Lane Winn, Rev. Gloria Fowler and Rev. Fernie Rivera. Not pictured: Rev. Chad Brooks
going r your on zing. o f u o y k o than s ama “I want t LI Launch event i evable. he C unbeli support. T ss in this room is on and of isi dne The gifte ate you and your v to you and i c ou e I do appr endship. Thank y ur fri ation.” course yo the Found ynthia Bishop C vey ar Fierro H
Planned Giving Navigator
The Foundation introduced this innovative program to assist churches in launching and managing their own planned giving campaigns. Twelve churches were participating by the end of 2018. Planned Giving Navigator provides videos, brochures, website and other materials churches need to educate their congregations about the need for and the benefits of planned giving. The Foundation underwrites the cost for churches and will reimburse in full if the church leaders want to discontinue.
Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood. Acts 20:28
Financial Peace University FPU is a life-changing program with a long history of helping families begin managing money God’s way. The Foundation awarded $333 each to 32 families at First UMC of Bossier City and Henning Memorial UMC of Sulphur to contribute to participants’ creating emergency funds of $1000 recommended by Dave Ramsey. The course focuses on taking steps to eliminate debt, save money, and ultimately become better givers. The participants this year paid off nearly $42,000 over the duration of the class.
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Staff member Bob Carrell hands off a check to Rev. Karl Klaus of First UMC, Bossier City for participation in FPU.
Mississippi Convocation on the Black Church
The Foundation sponsored 15 clergy to learn how to respond to the challenges and opportunities of ministry training, and develop and empower leaders to establish programs that address the needs of the church in new and creative ways.
to be a lifeLEAP continues s. Thank you changing proces r vision. for acting on you ungblood Rev. Gloria Yo
Attending the Convocation on the Black Church, L to R: (front) Rev. Tiffanie Postell, Rev. Gloria Fowler, Dr. Wybra Price; (middle row) Rev. Derrick Hills, Rev. Elenora Cushenberry, Rev. Joe Connelly, Rev. Kotosha Griffin, Rev. Connie Saizon, Rev. Karli Pidgeon, Rev. Trina Williams, Rev. K.C. Roberson, Rev. Clifton Conrad; (back row) Rev. Robert Johnson, Rev. Ron Southall, Rev. Simon Chigumira and Rev. Frederick Sweetwyne
Leadership Excellence Advancement Program 1.9
With Foundation funding, 12 LEAP graduates created a program to continue exploring evolving pastoral issues and challenges, and shape the long-term vision of church leadership.
Pastors discuss current issues they have in common Conference-wide at a LEAP 2.0 retreat.
Annual Meeting
Participants in 2018 include: Rev. Ramonalynn Bethley, Rev. Eunice Chigumira, Rev. Cliff Conrad, Rev. Jo Ann Cooper, Rev. Danny Gleason, Rev. Hank Hamilton, Rev. Pattye Hewitt, Rev. Karl Klaus, Rev. Ashley McGuire, Rev. Truman Stagg, Rev. Donnie Wilkinson, Rev. Nancy Wofford and Rev. Gloria Youngblood.
“Making an Impact” was the theme of the Foundation’s 43rd Annual Meeting in April. The event celebrated the positive impact the Foundation’s ministries have had on our community. Rev. Weldon Bares was installed as the new Chairman of the Board of Trustees and four new board members were elected to serve: Debra T. Davis, Ph.D.; Bobby Fahey; Rev. Ashley McGuire; and Troy Searles. Outgoing board members Rev. Joseph Awotwi and Alice Prophit received recognition for their 12 years of faithful service.
Rev. Bares and Rob Fairly at the 2018 Annual Meeting
“If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.” Romans 12:8
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Giving to others is a priority Giving to others is a privilege for which we are grateful. We express our gratitude by double-tithing, or giving 20% of our annual gross operating income to various ministries through grants. Since the first grant of $2,500 to Cornerstone UMC in 1992, the Foundation has awarded approximately $6 million in grants to United Methodist ministries.
“You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people, but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.” 2 Corinthians 9:11-12
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Foundation Grants 2018 Grant Recipients Leadership Training for Clergy and Lay Leaders
Amount Awarded $198,191
Seminary Education
$60,000
New Church Starts
$21,686
Student Ministry
$34,400
Stewardship and Planned Giving Education
$11,206
Centenary College
$7,500
Total
$332,983
le aking it possib m y b rs o st a p s as and r investing in u l to have time fu it u fr so s a “Thank you fo w . It en Camp in Ohio stor that are oft a p a f o s d ee to attend Base n l to the practica r in ministry.” space to delve in ve o ed m im sk r skipped o ck Rev. Katie Bla Harris Rev. Michelle inehart Rev. Austin R ivera Rev. Fernie R
These p as sponsore tors all agreed that Bas d by the e Camp Founda practica , tion, wa l and eff s the mo ective s ummit th st had the ey had e pleasure ver of attend ing.
“Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.” 1 Timothy 6:18-19
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Foundation Loans In 2018, the Foundation held 37 loans to United Methodist churches and ministries throughout the Louisiana Annual Conference, totaling $6.4 million. These loans address the needs for expansion of worship facilities, unexpected repairs or other strains on a church budget. Foundation loan interest rates are comparable to those at local banks, but the interest paid serves a larger purpose, supporting the United Methodist connection. The Foundation does not charge points, origination fees, document preparation fees, underwriting discounts or other fees that can add more to the cost of a loan.
“Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.� Colossians 3:17
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Loan Portfolio
The United Methodist Foundation of Louisiana was created to help local churches and other United Methodist ministries with financial matters. We assist churches in determining a safe debt level and developing a plan to support ministry.
Current Loans with the Foundation Aldersgate UMC, Slidell Amite UMC Asbury UMC, Lafayette Bethany UMC, New Orleans Boynton UMC, Gretna Camp Istrouma Caney Conference Center, Minden Carpenter’s Chapel UMC, Prairieville Faithful UMC, St. Amant First Grace UMC, New Orleans First Street P.W. UMC, New Orleans First UMC, Alexandria
First UMC, Bossier City First UMC, Crowley First UMC, Ponchatoula First UMC, Houma First UMC, Slidell First UMC, Thibodaux Hartzell Mt. Zion UMC, Slidell Haughton UMC Henning Mem. UMC, Sulphur Hurst UMC, Plaquemine Jefferson UMC, Baton Rouge MacDonell Children’s Services New Orleans District
Pearl River UMC Shady Grove UMC, Mansfield St. Charles UMC, Destrehan St. John’s UMC, Baton Rouge St. Luke Simpson, Lake Charles Shalom Zone, New Orleans University UMC, Baton Rouge University UMC, Lake Charles UMC of the Covenant, Lafayette UMC Learning Center, Houma Wesley UMC, Baton Rouge Wesley UMC, Sulphur
“For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there was enough money to finish it? Otherwise you might complete only the foundation before running out of money, and then everyone would laugh at you. They would say, ‘There’s the person who started that building and couldn’t afford to finish it!’” Luke 14:28
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Planned Giving The Foundation was established in 1975 for the purpose set forth in The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church: To promote planned giving programs on behalf of local churches and conferences; and To furnish counseling and guidance to local churches with regard to permanent funds.
Foundation Planned Giving Stats Since 1975, 400 donors have established planned gifts. Planned gifts to the Foundation are worth more than $30 million. Donations received total $3.3 million for new Charitable Gift Annuities and Endowments to benefit United Methodist churches and agencies. Payouts made to Charitable Gift Annuitants and Trust Holders this year was $413,574. Distributions to churches from Endowed Gifts totaled $468,476 this year.
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasure on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasure 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 6:19-21
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Planned Gifts Explained YOUR GIFT
YOUR GOAL • Maintain control of your
Bequest
assets during life • Make a gift to church at your death • Receive fixed income for life
• Avoid capital gains tax on Charitable Gift the sale of your appreciated property Annuity • Receive a charitable income tax deduction now • Use appreciated property
Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT)
Life Estate Reserved
without paying capital gains tax • Enjoy regular income for life or a term of years • Receive a charitable deduction now
HOW IT WORKS
YOUR BENEFITS
Designate a United Methodist church or institution as the beneficiary of your asset by will, trust or other instrument.
• Control and use your
Transfer your cash or appreciated property to the Foundation in exchange for our promise to pay you fixed income (with rates based on your age) for the rest of your life.
• Fixed income for life
Transfer your cash or appreciated property to fund a trust. The trust sells your property tax-free and provides you with income for life or a term of years.
property during your lifetime. • Estate tax charitable
deduction
• Partial bypass of capital gain • Possible tax-free payments • Charitable tax deduction • Income for life or a term of years • Possible income growth over time • Avoidance of capital gains tax • Charitable tax deduction
• Remain in your home for life
• Receive a charitable income tax deduction now
Donate house or property to the Foundation but retain the right to use it during your life.
• Lifetime use of property • Charitable tax deduction
Our Planned Giving Team
Rob Fairly President/CEO
Chris Spencer Development, South LA
Bob Carrell Development, North LA
“A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, but the sinner’s wealth is laid up for the righteous.” Proverbs 13:22
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Balance Sheet December 31, 2018
ASSETS Cash & Cash Equivalents Accounts Receivable Accrued Interest Receivable Prepaid Expenses Investments at FMV Other Real Estate Mortgages Receivable, net Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance Real Estate held in Trusts Property & Equipment, Net TOTAL ASSETS
$10,012,668 2,839 279,634 48,827 142,026,968 410,968 6,059,987 57,831 1,461,245 83,914 $160,444,881
LIABILITIES & NET ASSETS LIABILITIES Accounts Payable $3,310 Amounts Held for Others 121,609,870 Liabilities Under Unitrust Agreements 1,661,034 Liabilities Under Gift Annuities & Reserves 1,503,043 TOTAL LIABILITIES 124,777,257 NET ASSETS Without donor restrictions: Undesignated 4,049,409 Designated Grant appropriations 1,083,970 Excess on Income Fund designated for future use 744,095 Total designated 1,828,065 Total net assets without donor restrictions 5,877,474 With donor restrictions 29,790,150 TOTAL NET ASSETS 35,667,624 TOTAL LIABILITIES & NET ASSETS $160,444,881 16 |United Methodist Foundation of Louisiana
Statement of Activities Year ended December 31, 2018 Without Donor Restrictions
With Donor Restrictions
Total SUPPORT AND REVENUE Contributions and Bequests $51,083 $3,377,013 $3,428,096 Interest and Dividends 423,633 796,018 1,219,651 Management and Consulting Fees 702,427 - 702,427 Total support and revenue prior to release from restrictions 1,177,143 4,173,031 5,350,174 Net Assets Released From Restrictions 284,469 (284,469) - Total support and revenue 1,461,612 3,888,562 5,350,174 EXPENSES Program services Charitable Trusts, Annuities & Endowments - 1,579,612 1,579,612 Grants & Gifts 332,983 - 332,983 Total program services 332,983 1,579,612 1,912,595 Support services Management and general 1,394,175 - 1,394,175
Total expenses 1,727,158 1,579,612 3,306,770 Other changes: Change in value - split interest agreements 214,912 214,912 Unrealized Loss on Investments (342,065) (3,198,215) (3,540,280) Realized Market Gain 7,670 101,850 109,520 Total other changes (334,395) (2,881,453) (3,215,848) Changes in Net Assets Net Assets, Beginning of Year Net Assets, End of Year
(599,941)
(572,503)
(1,172,444)
6,477,415 $5,877,474
30,362,653 $29,790,150
36,840,068 $35,667,624
“From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.� Luke 12:48
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Foundation Quick Facts
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CHURCHES & MINISTRIES IN 2018 LOAN PORTFOLIO
$3,377,013 2018 AMOUNT DONATED TO CREATE NEW CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITIES AND ENDOWMENTS FOR MINISTRY
$6,416,870 DOLLARS CURRENTLY ON LOAN TO CHURCHES AND MINISTRIES WITHIN THE CONFERENCE “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.” Psalm 136:1
Methodist Foundation of Louisiana 18 |United Methodist Foundation of Louisiana 18 |United
AMOUNT AWARDED TO UNITED METHODIST MINISTRIES THROUGH GRANTS THIS YEAR
DOLLAR AMOUNT OF PLANNED GIFTS ESTABLISHED WITH FOUNDATION SINCE 1975.
$332,983
CONFERENCE PASTORS WHO BENEFITED FROM SEMINARY SERVICE LOANS
$33,000,000 PERCENTAGE OF INCOME CONTRIBUTED THROUGH GRANTS
100
DONORS WHO HAVE ESTABLISHED PLANNED GIFTS SINCE 1975
20%
400
Foundation Staff
Rachel Baio
Tamara Bello
Bob Carrell
Rob Fairly
Director of Trusts
Accounting
Development North LA
President/CEO
Violet Frost
Kelly Johannessen
Chris Spencer
Tracie Wharton
Office Manager
Director of Communications
Development South LA
Controller
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.� Colossians 3:15
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8337 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70809
www.umf.org
225.346.1535