Wills & Bequests
A Simple Way to Care for Loved Ones – and the Ministries Your Cherish
Creating a will is one of the most important acts of Stewardship you can make. A will allows you to care for your family, clearly express your wishes, and ensure that the churches and ministries that have shared your faith continue to be supported in the future.
A gift through your will – often called a bequest – is one of the most common and meaningful ways people choose to support ministry.
Tithing and Faithful Stewardship
For many, tithing has been a lifelong practice – a faithful way of saying thank you for what God has entrusted to them and supporting the work of the church.
Including a gift through your will is to a replacement for tithing, but an extension of that same spirit of generosity. It allows you to continue supporting your church and ministries you care about, even beyond your lifetime.
Just as tithing reflects trust in God during life, a planned gift reflects hope, gratitude, and faith for the future.
Why a Will Matters
Without a will, decisions about your estate are left to the state of Hawaii, rather than what you wish. A thoughtfully prepared will help you:
• Provide for your family and loved ones
• Avoid unnecessary confusion or delays
• Clearly express your values and wishes
• Support your church and ministries in a meaningful way.
Additionally, a will give you peace of mind – and give those you love clarity.
Including a Gift Through Your Will
Many supporters choose to include a gift through their will that benefits:
• Their local church
• Baptist ministries and missions
• Scholarships or other ministry funds
• Other Christian causes close to their heart
These gift are may be made through the Hawaii Baptist Foundation, ensuring your wishes are honored and your designated ministries receive support as you intend.
Types of Bequests
You may include a gift in your will in several ways:
• Specific amount – a set dollar amount
• Percentage of your estate – flexible and often preferred
• Specific asset – such as cash, securities, or real estate
• Residual gift – what remains after other distribution
We can help walk you through these options to determine which option best fits your situation.
Do I Need a Large Estate?
No. Gifts from your estate – bequests – are for anyone who wants to make a thoughtful gift, regardless of the size of the estate. Many meaningful gifts begin with a simple percentage or modest amount.
Getting Started
If you already have a will, adding a gift may be as simple as a short amendment.
If you do not yet have a will, the Hawaii Baptist Foundation can help you take the first step.
Ways We Can Help
• Provide sample bequest language
• Offer access to philanthropic planning advisers
• Answer questions as you speak with your attorney
• Help ensure your gets benefits the ministries you choose
Take the Next Step
Creating our updating a will is a meaningful act of stewardship – and itʻs often easier than people expect.
Contact Our Foundation Team to:
• Request Sample Bequest Language
• Schedule a Confidential Conversation
A Note on Our Services
The Hawaii Baptist Foundation is not a legal firm and we do not provide legal advice. We are honored to work alongside you and your professional Advisers to help ensure your philanthropic wishes are clearly expressed and faithfully carried out.
The information we provide is for educational purposes only.