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The Maclellan Foundation
Christian Widows Ministry Forum
December 1992
A small group of Christian widows from around the United States met in Atlanta at the invitation of The Maclellan Foundation to discuss the needs and challenges facing Christian widows of
considerable wealth. From the beginning, there was a strong spiritual and emotional bond among the participants. Although the length of bereavement ranged from 6 months to 21 years and the causes of
bereavement differed, there were striking similarities in experiences, reactions, and expressed needs.
The area of finance often looms as a major hurdle for women who have suffered the great trauma of widowhood. For women who have considerable resources, this can be as true as for those who
barely have enough. The biggest givers in the evangelical community are widows and widowers, yet many widows experience a tremendous fear in giving significantly. It is important to give out of spiritual
conviction, to have financial advisors who share these convictions, and to resist the temptation to become cynical in the face of a multitude of needs and requests.
This booklet includes a summary of widows'
experiences as voiced at the forum and helps in charting a financial course that honors God. It also includes specific suggestions for ways in which others can offer substantial help during the bereavement period and beyond.
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