Lay persons often ask how they can help when death comes to pastors in the Western North Carolina Confernece. Joining the Brotherhood/Sisterhood is one good response.

Thanks to the forward looking insight and compassion of men like Dr. Houston G. Allen, a fund was created over a century ago to assist bereaved clery families at the time of death. A check for $8,500 is delivered to the surviving spouse immediately after a death occurs. This is often done at the funeral. We have on file many letters of appreciation confirming the tremendous help this program provides families in crisis. The money frequently goes to pay for final medical expenses, burial expenses, and the relocation of a family to leave a church-owned parsonage.

The procedure is simple. By card, we notify all Brotherhood/Sisterhood members of each death. Laity then contribute $2.00 (and more if they wish) while clergy contribute $6.00. Each gift is an expression of love and compassion.

The generosity of the laity has long ensured the success of this program. Laity are still critical to this ministry's future. A gift to the Brotherhood/Sisterhood reaches out in love to the very clergy families who have once ministered to our needs. Your gift represents far more than money. It is a tangible expression of love given and love returned.

We invite you to become a contributing member of the Brotherhood/Sisterhood. Your support is vital to keeping this program strong. We especially invite younger laity to share in this ministry. To become a member of the Brotherhood/Sisterhood, just submit the form located at this link.