An Open Letter to ICR Supporters
From Dr. John Morris, President of ICR
As you know, ICR has always taken a very low key approach to "fund raising," for we are confident that God will take care of each true need of this ministry. Even on this page of Acts & Facts reserved for "financial" matters, the thrust is always to point to Scripture and the Author of Scripture—never to threaten closure or hardship. And God has blessed with His provision, as He promised.
My dear friend, Tom Manning, usually writes this column. You may have benefited from his sensitive but forthright discussions of Scriptural truth. His title, Stewardship and Trust Services, aptly describes his function as well as passion. He is not a "fund raiser," he is a servant, helping God's people to arrange their financial affairs so that they can fully care for their families, maximize their support of Christian ministries, and minimize the amount siphoned off by the government. He receives no commission or percentage, thus is fully free to selflessly help others.
Recently he and I spent the day with an elderly widower who desired to pass on as much as possible to his children and grandchildren, all the while benefitting ICR which had helped him greatly in his Christian life. I was of no help in discussing such financial matters. I was there to communicate my vision for the ministry, and glean from his insights.
But that day I saw Tom, with sincerity and sensitivity, listen to this dear brother's heart and help him structure his estate to accomplish his goals. ICR's benefit was not an issue, only as it was a goal of the man himself. There was no pressure, no unnecessary prying, no embarrassing moments—just one Christian man serving a brother with special needs.
Together, with Tom's wise counsel, they developed a plan which could save the man's estate a significant amount of money. The end result was that the man will be able to pass on nearly his entire accumulation to his loved ones and the Lord's work. God and His Word were honored that day as Christian love abounded.
Why am I telling you this story? Because I have seen many dear Christian men and women as they face these issues, fearful of being intimidated or manipulated by high pressure fund raisers. As we all know, these fears are often well-founded.
It may be that you are wrestling with financial plans and the choice of someone to help. Let me recommend Mr. Tom Manning. While Tom is not a legal or tax advisor, you will never find a more sensitive friend or knowledgable consultant.
He may be able to help you realize your goals, and if helping ICR is one of them, that's OK too. I encourage you to call or write him. Even if you choose another route, you will be richer for the time together.
