Endowments: Ministry in Perpetuity

Dr. Charles and Margo Morgan's commitment to St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Monroe started 33 years ago when visiting churches to find a church home. They had just moved back to Monroe to start Charles' medical practice, and after their St. Paul's visit, they knew it was "the one."

The Morgans have built a wonderful life around their church. Charles' mother was a member of St. Paul's during her later years in life, and their two daughters were raised in the church. They value the relationships they have created; all of their best friends are from their St. Paul's family.

Their love of music got them started in the choir early on, where they still sing most Sundays, and they have served on the Staff-Pastor Parish Relations Committee, as adult youth leaders, on missions to Mexico, in the Open Hearts Sunday School class and much more. Their children enjoy many memories of Confirmation, ski trips, the Christmas tableau and countless other church activities.

So it only seems appropriate that this family would consult their pastor about a gift to the church, after receiving a family inheritance.

Their pastor, Rev. R.B. Moore, knew the value of endowments from his experience at a previous church appointment, and suggested to the Morgans that they contact the Foundation about establishing one for the benefit of St. Paul's.

As a result, the Chuck and Kay Morgan Memorial Endowment Fund was created with the inheritance from Charles' mother, Kay, who passed away in June.

"We had to settle her estate and Margo and I felt we needed to give anything that was part of that to the church. Since those assets came from my parents and they were instrumental in my upbringing, we felt that was appropriate," said Charles.

As the endowment fund grows, the earnings are used to make annual contributions to St. Paul's for ministry,
in perpetuity.

Dr. Morgan is an internist in Monroe and plays the double bass, and sometimes the piano, in the Monroe Symphony. He also plays keyboard in a local band, "Code Blue and the Flatliners," a group made up of medical doctors. Margo is a talented seamstress and enjoys two weekly Bible study groups. Together, they love traveling and visiting their daughters and three granddaughters.

"This gift really springs from our commitment to tithing and our love for St. Paul's. We have so many memories and three generations of our family that have loved the church. It is important to us that it thrives beyond our years," Dr. Morgan explained.