Lay people have often asked how they might help the family when death comes to a pastor in our annual conference who is a member of The Brotherhood/Sisterhood (BH/SH).

Thanks to concerned clergy and laity, a fund was established over a century ago to assist families at the death of the pastor, spouse, parent, breadwinner.

Immediately upon notification of death, The BH/SH issues a check in the amount of the current benefit, made to the surviving spouse or a designated beneficiary. If there is no designated beneficiary, the check is issued to the estate of the deceased. These funds, which are a non-taxable gift, may be used for any purpose, such as medical bills, funeral expenses, or the relocation of the family from the church-owned parsonage. It is a tangible way to say "thank you" and to share love with clergy.

Please consider a gift in memory of a beloved pastor who has passed on, or in honor of a minister still in service. Each gift honors that recipient and provides a tangible expresson of love and appreciation for a clergy family who are part of our WNCC United Methodist Church family.

Roland T. Barnhardt, Executive Director
Robbie Carr, Administrative Assistant
Jatana Royster, Director of Laity

In addition, please encourage and support your own clergy's enrollment in the WNCC Brotherhood/Sisterhood.

Become a Laity Member

Your response as a lay person, along with many others, has made this a vital ministry for over 100 years. Just since 1996, The BH/SH has given more than $2.2 million to the families of deceased ministers. Our thanks to you!

LAITY:

Brotherhood/Sisterhood

Western North Carolina Conference
The United Methodist Church