It's a good thing to bequeath money to Christian ministries. But be careful that the ministry is a legitimate one. Here are some basic principles to guide your estate planning.
 AT ISSUE
My husband and I are thinking about having a new will prepared. We don't hear from our children much and we've been thinking about giving a larger portion to a particular Christian ministry.
Do you think this is a wise course of action?
 OUR INSIGHT
It is good to give to Christian work. However, there are so many religious scam artists in the world you need to be very, very careful.
We strongly recommend that you check with the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA) to verify you have selected a worthy ministry before you change your will.
This organization has set 7 standards for responsible stewardship by Christian ministries. If a ministry does not maintain these standards they are asked to resign and the reason for their resignation is listed on the ECFA web site.
The web site also has a "Donor's Bill of Rights" which is very important. You should look at this web site yourself and ask your lawyer to review it too before making a change in your will.
One final thing. You say you may change your will based partially on the fact that you're not hearing from your children as much. Please think twice about taking any action if this is what is motivating you. It's best to call your family together and tell them about how about not seeing them rather than punishing them for not coming around more often.
Toward the end of his earthly life Jesus reminded his disciples they would be scattered just as your children may be scattered today. Jesus told them, "You will leave me alone." But Jesus followed this up with a greater truth when he said, "Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me" (John 16:31). You may need to start thinking like Jesus in this regard and continue to love your children as you always have.
-DLH
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