President's Blog

Only half (48%) of Canadians have a Will, according to a national Ipsos survey commissioned by the National Institute on Ageing and RBC Royal Trust, and only one third of Wills are up to date. Only one third of Canadians (30%) have an estate plan, and only 35% of Canadians have appointed their Power of Attorney.

In Canada:

• Ages 18-34: 30% have a Will

• Ages 35-54: 34% have a Will

• Ages 55+: 74% have a Will

The median inheritance for homeowners in Canada is $85,100 (median of $30,000 for renters)*. If you don’t prepare a Will, these funds will be administered by a court-appointed estate trustee who manages your estate. Often the recipient is a friend or relative but there are no guarantees. Are you comfortable with this?

Attend a Fellowship Estate Plan Workshop

Estate planning is one of the most important—yet most often delayed—steps in wise stewardship. For many, the demands of life and ministry leave little time to carefully organize personal affairs. Our Estate Plan Workshop for Fellowship churches in Canada is designed to change that.

This practical and encouraging workshop helps our Fellowship churches and members understand how to protect their families, steward their resources, and leave a legacy. Participants will learn the essential elements of a well-prepared estate plan, including Wills, powers of attorney, charitable giving options, and strategies to reduce unnecessary taxes, along with the estate-planning services offered through Advisors with Purpose.

More importantly, the workshop approaches estate planning through a biblical lens. Scripture reminds us that everything we have is entrusted to us by God. Thoughtful planning ensures that those resources continue to serve our families and advance Kingdom work even after we are gone.

During the workshop, attendees will gain clear, practical guidance in a supportive environment where questions are welcome. Complex legal and financial concepts are explained in simple terms, allowing participants to leave with confidence and a clear path forward. Whether you are beginning your estate plan or reviewing an existing one, this session provides valuable insight and practical next steps.

Many find that once they begin the process, the peace of mind it brings is invaluable. Knowing your family is protected and your wishes are clearly documented allows you to focus more fully on the ministry to which God has called you.

We invite all Fellowship churches to book an estate-planning workshop in your church and encourage you to take part in this important teaching and invest in wise, faithful planning for the future.

For more information, contact Gord Baptist, Fellowship Advancement Director, at 519.821.4830 ext. 244 or gbaptist@fellowship.ca.

*Latest data is from 2023