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.
