It’s one of the largest transfers of wealth in human history—trillions of dollars moving from one generation to the next. But this moment isn’t just about inheritance. It’s about passing on faith, values, and a vision for generosity.
To explore how younger Christians are reimagining stewardship, we spoke with Christin Fejervary, Vice President for Brand and Experience at the National Christian Foundation (NCF)—a trusted partner helping believers give wisely and joyfully.
From Obligation to Joyful Generosity
Christin’s passion for generosity began early, though not in the way it’s shaped her life today.
“As a kid,” she shared, “giving was more of an obligation. I watched my parents tithe every week, and I learned discipline from that—but it wasn’t until my 20s and 30s, and especially through working at NCF, that I saw how generosity changes us. It frees us from being tied to the things of this world.”
That personal transformation has guided her work—helping others experience the joy that comes when giving is no longer a rule to follow but a relationship with God to live out.
What’s Driving the Next Generation to Give
When it comes to generosity, Millennials and Gen Z are rewriting the playbook.
According to NCF’s research, millennials—now roughly ages 29 to 44—view philanthropy as part of their identity. For Christian millennials, that identity is deeply spiritual: “My life is a way to give away.”
Christin explains:
“They believe all resources have equal value—not just money, but time, influence, and relationships. They don’t just want to write a check. They want to be part of the change.”
This shift from transactional to relational giving marks a profound change from previous generations.
Reimagining Traditional Tools
Younger Christians aren’t abandoning tools like donor-advised funds, estate plans, or investment portfolios—they’re personalizing them.
“They want to see impact,” Christin said. “They’re asking, ‘How is my giving being used?’ and ‘What difference is it making?’”
They’re also expanding how they define stewardship—using investment portfolios for charitable investing and seeking spiritual returns as much as financial ones.
At NCF, this has led to growing interest in community-based giving. Across the country, younger givers are joining together to give collectively, blending faith, friendship, and impact.
What Advisors Need to Know
Financial advisors also play a key role in this transition. But Christin says serving the next generation requires a shift in mindset.
“Younger Christians want to co-create their giving plans. They want a seat at the table and a voice in the process. It’s not just about managing money—it’s about helping them uncover all the ways God’s entrusted them to give.”
For advisors, that means focusing less on control and more on collaboration, connection, and calling.
How Families Can Have Faith-Filled Conversations
Generosity isn’t just a financial transaction—it’s a family story. Cristin encourages families to start there.
“The data shows that both generations—young and old—see faith as a guiding principle,” she said. “The key is to unpack what faithfulness looks like for each generation. When families share stories of how God has provided and guided them, something powerful happens.”
Listening to one another’s experiences helps bridge differences and creates a shared vision for stewardship across generations.
How NCF Is Helping the Next Generation Live Generously
At the National Christian Foundation (NCF), this generational shift is sparking new ideas and tools for families and advisors alike.
- New Research & Resources: NCF has published a comprehensive Next Gen Generosity Report—designed to help both older and younger generations navigate these conversations.
- Experiences & Events: Through community gatherings and local partnerships, NCF helps families explore generosity together—often in creative, organic ways led by next-gen participants.
- Collaboration with Advisors and Churches: NCF connects givers to trusted partners who can guide them through every stage of stewardship—from first-time donors to business owners planning legacy gifts.
You can explore these resources at FaithFi.com/NCF or NCFgiving.com/nextgenresearch.
The Power of Agency
One key insight from NCF’s research is the role of agency in healthy stewardship.
“We define agency as the ability to act on the free will God gives us,” Cristin explained. “The more we step into that responsibility—making decisions, taking ownership—the more confident and joyful we become.”
That means even those who inherit wealth should be encouraged to find their “Gen 1” opportunities—ways to take initiative, make decisions, and live out their calling to give.
The Influence of Women in Generosity
Another striking finding: women—especially mothers—play a major role in shaping generosity.
“Seventy-two percent of millennials we surveyed said their mothers were the biggest influence on their giving,” Cristin shared.
Yet, the research also revealed that many women feel unheard in family wealth decisions. The next step, Cristin says, is ensuring their voices are part of the conversation.
“This is the time to incorporate women’s perspectives in giving and wealth transfer. Their influence is profound—and essential.”
Passing Faith Along With Finances
As this great wealth transfer unfolds, Cristin reminds us that what we pass on matters more than what we possess.
“It’s not just about money moving between generations,” she said. “It’s about passing along faith, values, and purpose.”
And that’s a legacy that truly lasts. Learn more about how you can make generosity part of your family’s story at FaithFi.com/NCF.
On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:
- Our home is fully paid off, and we’re nearing retirement. I’ve heard you discuss reverse mortgages, but I have always been hesitant. What are the real benefits and drawbacks, especially regarding the accumulated interest? Also, what kind of closing costs or fees should we expect, and which company do you recommend?
- I’m approaching my required minimum distribution and recently learned about qualified charitable distributions (QCDs). Can I withdraw the money first and then donate it, or must it go directly to the charity to qualify?
Resources Mentioned:
- Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
- The National Christian Foundation (NCF)
- NCF Next Gen Generosity Report
- Women, Wealth, and Faith Research Study (Sign up to Participate) - Partnership with Women Doing Well and the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving
- Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money
- Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety
- Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool
- Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)
- FaithFi App
