We need to talk about bequests … and yes it can feel awkward.

As a member of Parish Council, I’m part of a small subcommittee tasked with running a bequest campaign on behalf of South Head. And let’s be honest: asking people to consider leaving a gift to their church in their will is not an easy conversation. Most of us would prefer not to talk about that.

But we believe it’s time to change that.

Bequests are an extraordinary way to resource the parish for generations to come —a way of honouring the past while securing the future. Rev Matt Aroney has recently outlined the parish’s plans for renewal. For reaching new people with the good news of Jesus and welcoming them into our community.

And what better moment to reflect on renewal than now, just after celebrating 150 years since the foundation stone was laid for St Michaels? We have travelled a long way as a parish in that time, but that progress didn’t happen by accident. It was built on the dedication, generosity, and faithfulness of parishioners over many decades.  

Of course, no one likes to dwell on their own mortality. But we all make plans to provide for the people and organisations we care about. At South Head, we’ve never really developed a culture of inviting people to consider a bequest—and perhaps that’s something we need to rethink. For many of us, the church is like an extended family. It offers comfort, community, friendship, support, and spiritual nourishment. Why wouldn’t we want future generations to experience the same?

A bequest is a practical, lasting way to ensure that others can benefit as we have. A ‘Future Fund’ established by this generation could be invested for use in both the long and short term to fund new ministries or support vital improvements to church infrastructure. Or it might be used to fund a project close to a parishioner’s heart.

We are about to launch our bequest campaign and will soon be sending out a survey to hear your thoughts and suggestions. Maybe you’re already on board and have included SHAP in your will — we would love to know!

Over the coming months, we’ll be hosting some information sessions and morning teas and offering practical help for anyone who would like guidance on ways they might leave a bequest.

If you have questions, would like to assist us host a morning tea, or simply want to spread the word, please feel free to get in touch with Suzie Williams suzannewilliams49@gmail.com or Matt Aroney matt.aroney@southheadanglican.org or phone 0400 465 467

Let’s start the conversation. Perhaps it won’t be awkward after all.