SPRING 2020 ThriventMagazine - FACT OR FICTION?
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Thrivent
SPRING 2020
Magazine
2019
ANNUAL
REPORT TO
FACT MEMBERS
PAGE 12
OR
FICTION?
SETTING
THE RECORD
STRAIGHT ON
FINANCIAL
MYTHS
PAGE 14
It’s a myth that young
people don’t need to
save for retirement.
Just ask Brent and
Callie Lehman.
NAVIGATING MARKET PREPARING FOR SERVICE IDEAS
FLUCTUATIONS THE UNEXPECTED FOR SPRING
PAGE 9 PAGE 20 PAGE 24
RENEWAL
“Therefore, if anyone is in
Christ, he is a new creation.
The old has passed away;
behold, the new has come.”
2 Corinthians 5:17
PHOTO BY GETTY IMAGES/IMAGE SOURCE
THRIVENT MAGAZINE | SPRING 2020
In This Issue
SPRING 2020 | VOLUME 118, NO. 694
Thrive
Features 4
How Do IRAs Work?
5
Connecting Art and Faith
6
Member Spotlight
7
Generosity in Action
8
Market Outlook
9
5 Ways to Navigate Market
Fluctuations
10
Spring Cleaning
12
2019 Annual Report to Members
14
20 24
IMAGES (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP): CHRIS MULLINS, SHUTTERSTOCK; LOUISE PALMBERG; ROCCO BAVIERA
29
What’s Happening
at Thrivent
Building lifelong homes
Board election results
Free webinars
14 Personal Finance Myths—Busted! Dividend eligibility for members
Sorting the facts from fiction when it comes to common money advice.
32
Just for fun
20 Preparing for the Unexpected
How disability income insurance provides more than reassurance.
On the cover:
24 Spring Into Service Callie and Brent Lehman, with son Liam
Fresh ways to live generously. Photo by Chris Mullins
THRIVENT.COM | 1
Welcome
A CLEAR VISION
FOR THE FUTURE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS THRIVENT ®
Bonnie E. Raquet MAGAZINE STAFF
Chair Callie Briese
Williamsburg, VA Executive Editor
W elcome to a new decade! I
hope your 2020 is off to a
wonderful start.
Deborah M. Ackerman
Wilmette, IL
Donna Hein
Editor
N. Cornell Boggs Jon Goodrich
I like making a connection Ludington, MI Editorial Assistant
between the year 2020 and 20/20 Kenneth A. Carow
vision; it’s a time for seeing things Greenwood, IN
more clearly. And as we’ve begun Bradford N. Creswell
this year at Thrivent, we’ve been Mercer Island, WA CONTENT STRATEGY
talking about helping people see Lynn Crump-Caine AND PUBLISHING
Sandy Springs, GA Anya Britzius
their financial future more clearly. Senior Content
In fact, it’s our promise to you: Eric J. Draut Strategist
We will help you achieve financial Arlington Heights, IL
Bret Ryan
clarity so you can live a life full of Kirk D. Farney Senior Art Director
Hinsdale, IL
meaning and gratitude. Rebecca Lubecki
You know, financial clarity is Rev. Mark A. Jeske Associate Editor
Milwaukee, WI
different for everyone. It’s deeply “We will help you Frederick G. Kraegel
Molly Bennett
Senior Content
personal and driven by your val-
Henrico, VA Director
ues and faith. And you can have achieve financial
Kathryn V. Marinello Tina Gschlecht
financial clarity no matter your
net worth, the size of your house, clarity so you can live Bonita Springs, FL Senior Project
Manager
or the kind of car you drive. But— Nichole B. Pechet
a life full of meaning San Francisco, CA
Jonathan Benson
when you have financial clarity—it Production
affects your decisions around all and gratitude.” Teresa J. Rasmussen
President and CEO
Manager
of those things. It guides how you Orono, MN
budget, how you spend, how you
Angela S. Rieger
prepare for the future and how some time to reflect. To consider Madison, WI
you give. your vision for your finances. To
I believe everyone can have start to find financial clarity.
financial clarity. Everyone deserves We want you to live a life full of Thrivent (ISSN 1539-0128) is the official
to have a plan for their finances meaning and gratitude. And we look publication of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans,
Appleton, WI 54919-0001/Minneapolis, MN
that reflects their faith and forward to continuing to help you 55415-1624, a fraternal benefit society.
values. So they can live a life full make the most of all you’ve been It is published quarterly by the society.
of meaning and gratitude. Then, given.
Periodical postage paid at Appleton,
rather than making empty or Wisconsin, and additional mailing offices.
self-serving decisions, each of us POSTMASTER: Send address changes to
Thrivent magazine, Thrivent Financial for
can use money as a tool to make Lutherans, 4321 N. Ballard Road, Appleton,
a difference for our families, our WI 54919-0001. Phone: 800-THRIVENT
(800-847-4836). Copyright 2020 by
communities and our world. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans.
We’re only a couple of months Teresa J. Rasmussen All rights reserved.
into 2020. It’s not too late to take President and Chief Executive Officer
2 | THRIVENT MAGAZINE | SPRING 2020
Therssa Warren (left), along
with her friend Jasmine Dawson
(right), organized a Thrivent
Action Team to gather supplies
Thrive
for the homeless in their INSIGHTS AND INSPIRATIONS
community.
COVER T herssa Warren couldn’t shake the view of homelessness she encountered
walking to her car after evening classes at the University of Washington-
THE CITY Tacoma. Streets lined with homeless people who didn’t even have blankets to
PHOTO BY DEVON MICHELLE PHOTOGRAPHY
keep warm.
Volunteers provide blankets,
“I prayed and asked God what I could do to help,” says Warren, who graduated
hygiene kits to the homeless
in 2016 with a master’s degree in social work. Her prayer and her determination
By Donna Hein
caused her to start Cover the City in Tacoma, a blanket and hygiene kit drive for
displaced and transient people.
That first year, with one sponsor, family and friends, (Continued on page 4)
THRIVENT.COM | 3
Thrive
IRA WORK?
HOW DO _____ (Cover the City continued from page 3)
By Denise Logeland Warren collected and distributed
about 100 blankets. The next year
I f you’re saving for retirement, you’ve
already probably learned that every
type of savings vehicle comes with its
she added another sponsor and
included hygiene kits.
That’s when Warren’s friend,
own set of tax rules. One advantage of Thrivent member Jasmine Dawson,
putting your savings into an individual stepped in. “I saw what Therssa was
retirement account (IRA) is that you doing and her heart behind it,” she
get the flexibility to choose the set of says. “I wanted to help.”
tax rules that will apply. Dawson first formed a Thrivent
That’s because there are two main Action Team in early 2019 to collect
types of IRAs, the traditional and the and purchase supplies to make
Roth, explains Karen Birr, manager of about 150 hygiene kits, which
Advanced and Retirement Consulting tax year 2020 and forward, there is included basic necessities like
at Thrivent. no age restriction to contribute to a toothpaste, toothbrush and a first-
With a traditional IRA, if neither Traditional IRA.* aid kit.
you nor your spouse participates in “We packed them up, and with
an employer plan, your contributions HOW DO THE DOLLARS IN AN IRA GROW? the blankets, went out into the
are tax-deductible. If either of you do The money in an IRA can be invested community to give them out,” says
participate in an employer plan, your in the same ways that money can be Dawson.
contribution would be tax-deductible invested generally. It can be in stocks, The work has continued. Now, in
as long as your income is below cer- bonds, mutual funds, and so on. its fourth year, Cover the City has
tain income thresholds. So you get a However, past performance is not nec- grown in both the number of people
tax benefit up front. Later, when you essarily indicative of future results. it helps and what they receive.
withdraw money in retirement, you’ll Socks, especially thick wool ones
pay tax on it. But at that stage of life, HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO WAIT TO for Tacoma’s colder season, and
you might be in a lower tax bracket WITHDRAW MONEY? hand warmers are high on the list of
than you are now—another potential You can withdraw your money at any needs.
benefit. time. However, taxes and penalties will Warren is currently in the process
With a Roth IRA, you get no tax depend on if you’re taking money from of becoming a licensed clinical social
deduction up front, so each dollar you a traditional** or Roth IRA, and if you worker. “I’ve met so many people and
contribute is one that you’ve paid tax meet an IRS penalty exception. heard their stories of homelessness,”
on. The tax benefit comes later in life. she says. “Most people don’t choose
When you withdraw money from a to be homeless. Being able to serve
Roth IRA, if it’s a qualified distribution, Want to learn more? people right in my community is so
all of it comes out tax-free—both the
dollars you contributed and your earn-
! • Go to Thrivent.com/IRA
• See article on page 30
important to me.”
Dawson agrees. She formed
about recent legislation
ings on those dollars. a Thrivent Action Team to help
distribute more blankets, kits
CAN ANYONE HAVE AN IRA? and socks this year. “Our church
If you or your spouse (if you file a joint *For tax year 2019 you must be under 70½ to members donate, and we’ve also set
tax return) have earned income either contribute to a Traditional IRA. up spots throughout the community
as an employee or as a self-employed where people can donate,” says
ILLUSTRATION BY ISTOCK
**Withdrawals made prior to the age of 59½ may
individual, you can contribute to an be subject to a 10 percent federal tax penalty. Dawson, adding that shoe and
IRA. The maximum allowed contri- clothing drives may be next. “I’m
Thrivent and its financial professionals do not
bution for 2019 and 2020 is $6,000, provide legal, accounting or tax advice. Consult your happy to be able to support this
or $7,000 if you’re 50 or older. For attorney or tax professional. cause and give back.”
4 | THRIVENT MAGAZINE | SPRING 2020
CONNECTING ART AND FAITH
By Joanna Reiling Lindell
A fter Christ rose from the dead,
he met two disciples traveling
along a road to Emmaus. They did
not recognize him but invited him to
supper with them. While at the table
breaking bread together, the disciples
suddenly realized that this was
Jesus Christ. In that moment
of recognition, Christ vanished
(Luke 24:30-31). Rembrandt captures
this astonishing moment, and
the miraculous nature of what is
occurring, with the lightly sketched
quality to Christ’s face. The artist
cleverly uses the white of the paper
itself, combined with a simple
few lines, to suggest the form of
the Savior’s gleaming face and
surrounding divine light. We can
imagine the shock and joy of the
disciples—who are shown here taken
aback in surprise and with hands
joined in prayer, as they witness this
revelation and the radiance of Christ
vanishing before them.
Joanna Reiling Lindell is the director
and curator of the Thrivent Collection of
Religious Art (ThriventCollection.com)
Rembrandt van Rijn
(Dutch, 1606-1669)
Christ at Emmaus, 1654
Etching and drypoint
Thrivent Collection of Religious Art
Reflecting
This Easter season, how have
you recognized Christ where
you didn’t expect him?
THRIVENT.COM | 5
Thrive
CALLED TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Pastor, addictions counselor shares views on finances and generosity
By Donna Hein | Photo by John Bragg
R ev. Kal Rissman was serving a small
congregation part-time 40-plus
What does financial stewardship
mean to you?
help other people, it always seems
like we have enough. We can’t out-
years ago when the door opened to It means we do a good job using give God. It’s also important to get
hospital chaplaincy training and then our money in all phases of our in the habit of saving every month.
an addiction counselor internship. That lives. It’s being ready to support Even if it’s just a little bit, it adds
led to a career counseling people with the generation behind us and up. Also, I’d say get people on your
numerous addictions: drugs, alcohol, the generation ahead of us. From side who are good in dealing with
tobacco and food, among others. making sure our kids and grandkids finances. We’ve been blessed to have
Although retired, Rissman contin- have the resources they need for our Thrivent Financial professional,
ues to serve as part-time pastor to two education to helping our parents as Michelle Walker, on our side. Finally,
congregations and raises beef cattle as they get older. don’t ask yourself as much what you
a hobby. He’s author of Knowledge to want, ask yourself more often what
Power: Understanding and Overcoming What’s your best piece of you need.
Addiction. A Thrivent member since financial wisdom?
2005, Rissman and his wife, Deborah, I have several of them. We’re blessed by What drives you to make a difference?
live in Alexandria, Indiana, and have God to be a blessing to others. When I think that all of us who are
four adult children and seven grandsons. we use our wealth and resources to Christians are called to make a
6 | THRIVENT MAGAZINE | SPRING 2020
difference in whatever sphere we’re the brain. And like with any other
in. As a farmer, it’s to be a good disease, addiction affects ethnic
GENEROSITY IN ACTION
steward of the land. As a pastor, it’s groups differently, and it also runs
to shepherd my flock. All of us have a in families. I want people to under-
calling to be Christians where we are. stand the disease of addiction the
same way they understand the
What led you to a career in ministry? disease of diabetes, cancer, etc.
I knew I was going to be a Lutheran
minister when I was in sixth grade. Can people have an addiction
I enjoyed my confirmation class to money?
with our pastor, and his son was Absolutely. Money is a seductive,
my best friend, so I spent a lot of powerful and addictive thing. One-
time at the parsonage. I just knew I third of the parables Jesus told
wanted to do something with eternal have to do with money and posses-
significance. sions. Whatever you put your trust
in is your god; money shouldn’t GIRL SCOUTS
You spent your career counseling become your god. We have to be
BUILD BIRD HABITAT
SAVANNAH, GEORGIA
people with addictions. What is cautious and wise in how we deal
On a 100-degree day at the
addiction? with money—how we earn it, save Savannah National Wildlife Refuge,
It’s an unhealthy relationship with it and use it. Girl Scout Troop 30387—with help
something or someone. It can be from the Refuge staff, the Ogeechee
with drugs, alcohol, food or an Audubon Society and volunteers—
unhealthy person. At its core, it’s a used a Thrivent Action Team led by
The member’s experiences may not be the same Thrivent member Monica Harris to
brain disease. With chemical depen- as other members and does not indicate future
create a backyard birding habitat
dency, there are actual changes in performance or success.
demonstration.
The learning experience for the
Girl Scouts began with researching
and budgeting how to wisely
purchase necessary supplies. They
Good question: evaluated what styles of feeders
WHAT’S ONE FINANCIAL GOAL and feeds to use, chose native
plants for the site and bought a bird
YOU HAVE FOR 2020? bath and bird house.
The Scouts also learned how to
dig a water line to create a water
source for the bird bath and install
¡Prepare for future rainy days in our ¡My financial goal for 2020 is to be more
a water drip line with a timer. Then,
financial futures. prudent with the money God has entrusted
they learned how to maintain the
Jan and John Norton, Moline, Illinois to me, and to keep a closer eye on my
site by regularly cleaning the feeders
budget. I need to remember to be grateful
and bird bath, and by keeping the
¡Reassess our family’s financial budget. and content with what I have, and thank
feeders full of treats for the birds.
Review the assets and liabilities to ensure God for his daily blessings, especially
The girls’ excitement about their
the new worth is firm and where it needs to be. during holidays.
creation sparked a desire to plan
Steve and Vivian Bowers, Garden Grove, Cindy Jubran, Knoxville, Tennessee
activities and host an event to
California
educate others of all ages about
birds and backyard habitats.
The event—which included
When planning a vacation, how do you make information, refreshments, crafts
Question for decisions about how much to spend? and games—turned out to be a
next issue: Tell us in 50 words or less at Thrivent.com/share success, attracting more than 100
or email thriventmagazine@thrivent.com attendees from the community.
THRIVENT.COM | 7
Thrive
“INTEREST RATES
PLAY AN IMPORTANT
ROLE IN THE
ECONOMY AND
MARKET ACTIVITY,
SO WE KEEP A
CLOSE EYE ON
THEM.”
raise rates, inflation would have to
run above the Fed’s 2% target for an
extended period of time. However,
the Fed’s preferred measure of
inflation has been well below 2% for
many years.
In periods in which the market
sees relative predictability in interest
rates, stocks have tended to be less
MARKET OUTLOOK volatile. In the second half of 2019
and through the first part of 2020,
KEEPING WATCH ON we have had one of the longest
INTEREST RATES periods in history without a 2%
drop in the stock market. Periods of
By David Royal lower volatility can lead to compla-
cency, however. In such periods it is
especially important to stick to your
I nterest rates play an important
role in the economy and market
activity, so we keep a close eye on
market and, of course, we saw a huge
drop in December of 2018.
The Fed then reversed course and
long-term financial plan and not be
lulled into taking on excessive risk,
especially with the market near all-
them. For 2020, the Federal Reserve began cutting rates in 2019, which time highs.
(or “Fed”) appears to be on the turned out to be a great year for
sidelines. The Fed sets short-term stocks. Following its most recent
interest rates, but the market sets rate cut last fall, the Fed indicated
longer-term interest rates. The Fed that it likely would hold rates steady David Royal is chief
raised rates a total of nine times for some time. Chairman Jerome investment officer at Thrivent.
ILLUSTRATION BY GETTY IMAGES/TCMAKE_PHOTO
from 2015 through December of 2018. Powell has stated that in order to
In the fourth quarter of 2018, the
markets were anticipating economic
weakness, which would usually result
The views expressed are as of January 31, 2020, and may change as market or other conditions change, and
in lower interest rates. But the Fed may differ from views expressed by other Thrivent Asset Management associates. Actual investment decisions
was still raising rates. When market made by Thrivent Asset Management will not necessarily reflect the views expressed. This information should not
conditions and Fed policy are head- be considered investment advice or a recommendation of any particular security, strategy or product.
ing in opposite directions, we tend to Asset management services are provided by Thrivent Asset Management, LLC, a SEC-registered investment
see increased volatility in the stock adviser and subsidiary of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans.
8 | THRIVENT MAGAZINE | SPRING 2020Navigate Market F luctuations_
5 WAYS TO _____________________ GENEROSITY IN ACTION
Hint: Don’t make reactive decisions; stay patient and prudent
1. KEEP YOUR LONG-TERM PLAN IN MIND
Investing is a long-haul endeavor—and if you’re investing in
the markets, you should expect fluctuation. The important
thing is to review your investment strategy to ensure it’s
aligned with your long-term goals, and then stay the course.
TEAM COLLECTS FOOD
FOR FAMILIES
BLOOMINGTON, ILLINOIS
Thrivent member Crystal Larkin led
a Thrivent Action Team to purchase
nonperishable groceries for meal
boxes as part of the “Big Give” effort
led by Home Sweet Home Ministries
2. DON’T REACT 3. CONSIDER BUYING and Midwest Food Banks. Through
A natural reaction is to want to buy when stock prices are WHEN THE MARKET this effort, more than 2,500 under-
soaring and to sell when prices are plunging. When the IS DOWN resourced families received a box
market falls, any losses in your portfolio are only realized Think of it as a sale with to cook a meal and gather family at
if you sell your holdings. The value of your investment prices discounted from a home to celebrate Thanksgiving.
will fluctuate over time, and you may gain or lose money. recent market peak. Yes,
Evaluate if this is the time to sell before you react. prices always could fall
further, but if you’re invested
for the long haul, you may
want to consider if this is
a good time to add to your
investment portfolio.
4. SEEK OUT GUIDANCE
If you’re not sleeping at night,
or your risk tolerance has
changed (maybe you haven’t
revisited your investment
VOLUNTEERS SUPPORT
strategy in a decade or more),
HOME SWEET HOME
it’s time to talk with your KIRKWOOD, MISSOURI
financial professional. He or Thrivent Financial Professionals Brian
she can help you review your McGraw and Adam Hautly organized
strategy and guide you in an event to help locals transitioning
staying the course or making from homelessness to housing.
measured, responsible More than 100 volunteers built 125
changes, if needed. dressers for Home Sweet Home, a
nonprofit organization that collects
and provides donated furniture and
PHOTOS BY SHUTTERSTOCK
5. DIVERSIFY household items. The dressers will
You’ve heard the adage: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. That applies here. Diversifying your help those transitioning to a new
investment portfolio means investing not just in stocks, nor just in bonds, but in a mix. Stocks living situation with furnishings and
and bonds seldom move in step with each other, so losses in one asset class may be offset by a sense of ownership.
gains (or less-severe losses) in the other. While diversification can reduce your risk, it does not
ensure a profit or guarantee against a loss.
THRIVENT.COM | 9Thrive
BRIGHT IDEAS
SPRING
CLEANING
By Rebecca Lubecki
Photo by Terry Brennan
A fter a long winter it’s time to
declutter and get organized. Just
as you clean your home, take a close
look at your financial to-do list. Here
are some tidy tips to get you started.
1. GO ROOM BY ROOM
Feeling overwhelmed at the thought of
cleaning your entire house? The task
will feel more manageable if you break
it up and make small goals. Perhaps
you tackle one room a day or one room
a week.
2. GET PAPERWORK IN ORDER
Organize receipts, bank statements
and tax documents in a way that
works for you. Make sure important
documents are in a fireproof safe or
safety deposit box. Shred documents
you no longer need.
3. DECLUTTER BY UPCYCLING
Create a new use for possessions you
no longer use. Turn a candle holder
into a planter or cut old towels into
cleaning rags.
4. REACH HIGH AND LOW
Find hidden dirt in each room’s nooks 6. DUST OFF YOUR BUDGET
and crannies. Dust corners, base- Revisit your saving and spending plan.
boards, shelves, picture frames, blinds, Make adjustments that will keep you
lamps and ceiling fans. Launder items on track to meet your financial goals. Natural All-Purpose Cleaner
like pillows, throw blankets and rugs. ½ cup white distilled vinegar
15 drops of essential oil (lavender,
7. MAKE A HOMEMADE CLEANER lemon, orange, peppermint)
5. CHECK YOUR CREDIT REPORT Looking for a more natural cleaner? ¾ cup water
Make sure your credit score is in good Mix and match your favorite
standing and that there are no errors mood-lifting, stress-busting essential
on the report. oils to make a custom scent.
10 | THRIVENT MAGAZINE | SPRING 2020NEW THRIVENT CFO SHARES
EARLY OBSERVATIONS GENEROSITY IN ACTION
By Vibhu Sharma
CLOTHES SORTED FOR
HOMELESS VETERANS
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA
Volunteers in the Thrivent Member
Network–Southwest Region
partnered with the Veterans Village
of San Diego to sort, organize and
fold donated clothing for homeless
veterans. More than 30 volunteers
W hy Thrivent? A chance to work
for a Fortune 500 company in
my hometown with a clear strategy
One of my initial observations
since joining Thrivent in September
2019 is that our brand awareness is
tackled mountains of clothing,
which were distributed at Stand
Down San Diego, a weekend-long
and mission was too good to pass up. not very strong. Consumers do not event where homeless veterans
And to be part of a team of Thrivent know us, and thus do not consider receive a variety of medical, dental
and other supportive services.
colleagues who want to grow our busi- us for financial advisory. We need
ness to serve more Christians. Plus, to expand our brand and marketing
my wife has been a member for more efforts in 2020! One of my other
than 30 years, so I have a personal observations is that our financial
relationship with Thrivent. professionals are focused on serving
Thrivent has more than sufficient our members. And we are working on
capital and liquidity to fulfill our prom- enhancing the customer experience
ises made to our members. However, even more in 2020 and beyond.
we need to develop solutions that the I look forward to working with my
market needs to grow our member- colleagues in making Thrivent a leader
ship. To be relevant, one needs to grow in financial advisory and serving both
over time, and to do so in a profitable our current and future members. GROUP WALKS FOR SUMMER
manner. For example, we need to READING PROGRAM
expand our services from insurance WATERFORD, MICHIGAN
Thrivent member Karen Kush led a
and mutual funds to other financial
Vibhu Sharma, senior vice Thrivent Action Team to help raise
services products such as banking and president, chief financial funds and awareness for the local
credit cards. We also need to offer officer and treasurer, Waterford library. The team of 35
more life, health and annuity solutions, started at Thrivent in volunteers used seed money to plan
September of 2019. a 5k run and 1- to 3-mile walk, as
and we are working on that!
well as a dog obstacle course. The
event attracted 145 runners and
walkers, and raised $7,000 for the
Thrivent is the marketing name for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Insurance products issued by Thrivent
Financial for Lutherans. Not available in all states. Securities and investment advisory services offered
library’s Summer Reading Program.
through Thrivent Investment Management Inc., a registered investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC,
and a subsidiary of Thrivent. Thrivent.com/disclosures.
THRIVENT.COM | 112019 ANNUAL REPORT TO MEMBERS
TRANSFORMATION BEGINS WITH
STRONG FINANCIAL FOUNDATION
Dear Fellow Member:
As we look back on 2019 and move into 2020, one thing
is abundantly clear—our financial performance in 2019
provides a foundation for a bold and exciting future. That
future will elevate our shared purpose of guiding people to
make the most of all they have been given. In that future, we
will be able to fulfill our promise to help Christians achieve
financial clarity, enabling lives full of meaning and gratitude.
Most importantly, it will be a future where Thrivent is a
recognized diversified financial services industry leader.
To achieve this, Thrivent has begun a transformation to
establish who we will be and what we will accomplish as a
business in the future.
We are beginning this transformation with a strong
financial foundation. Our adjusted surplus grew to a record
of $12.1 billion in 2019. This helps us maintain stability in
an ever-changing economic environment and allows us to
make strategic investments in the future of our organi-
zation. We can continue to meet the expectations of our As we embark on this new year and continue our trans-
current and future customers. formation, we remain true to our roots as a fraternal benefit
Assets under management and advisement grew to society and a membership organization of Christians. Our
$152 billion as a result of our diligent financial stewardship structure allows us to grow stronger as an organization and
and strong market performance. In 2019, nearly 94,000 take care of one another. As a holistic financial services pro-
new customers put their trust in us to help them achieve vider, we are honored to help people live generously.
financial clarity. We are optimistic and excited about Thrivent’s future. We
As we have done in the past—and will continue to do in look forward to continuing the journey with you.
years to come—we will keep our promises to you. In 2019, Thank you for your membership and support of Thrivent.
members and their families received $1.5 billion in insur-
ance benefits and $556 million in guaranteed retirement Sincerely,
income. Our $329 million in dividend payouts to members
was one of the highest in our history.1
Last year, we helped more members than ever gain
financial clarity through our planning expertise, an
important step to becoming a recognized leader in Bonnie E. Raquet Teresa J. Rasmussen
financial advisory services. Chair of the Board President and CEO
We’re strong and stable We’re recognized by others We’re inspiring generosity
$152 $12.1
BILLION BILLION A++ $333
MILLION
17.2
MILLION
PHOTO BY JEFF LENDRUM
ASSETS UNDER TOTAL ADJUSTED A.M. Best SUPERIOR2
SURPLUS FUNDS RAISED TOTAL HOURS
MANAGEMENT/ Highest of 16 AND DONATED CONTRIBUTED
ADVISEMENT This record surplus Thrivent was named one BY THRIVENT, BY VOLUNTEERS
helps us maintain ratings
Members and May 2019 of the “World’s Most MEMBERS AND IN 2019
customers trust us to stability in an ever- Ethical Companies” by SUPPORTERS IN
changing economic AMBest.com
manage their assets. Ethisphere Institute, 2019
landscape. 2012–2019.3
12 | THRIVENT MAGAZINE | SPRING 2020THRIVENT 2019 FINANCIAL RESULTS
Condensed Statutory Financial Information
As of Dec. 31 (in millions) 20184 2019
Admitted assets
Bonds $45,530 $46,538
Stocks 2,223 2,535
Mortgage loans 8,999 9,506
Cash and short-term investments 1,471 2,054
Other investments 5,370 6,464
Total investments 63,593 67,097
Other assets 628 642
Assets held in separate accounts 29,850 34,482
Total admitted assets $94,071 $102,221
Liabilities
Reserves for life, annuity $51,742 $52,950
and health contracts
Provision for dividend payments to members2 326 330
Other liabilities 3,065 4,468
1
Dividends are not guaranteed.
Liabilities related to separate accounts 29,810 34,408
Total liabilities 84,941 92,156 2
Ratings based on Thrivent’s financial
strength and claims-paying ability. Do not
Capital and surplus 9,130 10,065
apply to investment product performance.
Total liabilities and surplus $94,071 $102,221
3
“World’s Most Ethical Companies”
and “Ethisphere” names and marks are
For the year ended Dec. 31 (in millions) 20184
2019
registered trademarks of Ethisphere LLC.
Premium income and contract proceeds $5,257 $5,137 For details, visit Ethisphere.com.
Net investment income 2,798 3,050 4
The dissolution of Thrivent’s wholly owned
Other income 909 846 subsidiary, Thrivent Life Insurance Company
Total revenue 8,963 9,033 (Thrivent Life), was completed in 2019.
Fiscal 2018 results (in the table at left) have
Contractholders’ benefits 6,687 6,844 been restated to incorporate the assets,
Commissions and operating costs 1,192 1,193 liabilities and operations of Thrivent Life.
Other 21 30
Thrivent is the marketing name for
Total benefits and expenses 7,900 8,067 Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Insurance
products issued by Thrivent. Not available
Gain from operations before 1,064 966
in all states. Securities and investment
capital gains and losses
advisory services offered through Thrivent
Capital gains (losses), net 146 24 Investment Management Inc., a registered
investment adviser, member FINRA
and SIPC and a subsidiary of Thrivent.
Net income $1,210 $990
Thrivent.com/disclosures.
THRIVENT.COM | 13Brent and
Callie Lehman s)
(Thrivent member
Lydia
Hiesterman
(Thrivent Financial
professional)
14 | THRIVENT MAGAZINE | SPRING 2020PERSONAL
FINANCE
MYTHS—
Setting the record straight
on common money misconceptions
BY DONNA HEIN ¡ PHOTOS BY CHRIS MULLINS
P
ersonal finance advice comes in many shapes and forms. From
listening to podcasts, having social media conversations, surfing
the Internet and chatting with an acquaintance at a party, we get
lots of advice for our financial life.
But do we really know what’s true?
Thrivent magazine asked several Thrivent Financial professionals
to share financial myths they hear—and often need to debunk. We
narrowed the list to five, then interviewed financial professionals and
Thrivent members to set the story straight. u
THRIVENT.COM | 15Myth 1:
I’m young; I don’t need
to save for retirement.
“When I got my first paycheck after
college, I started saving for retirement
right away,” says Callie Lehman of
Linn, Kansas. Even though she had
what she calls “a decent amount of
student debt,” Lehman didn’t hesitate
A will is a must-consider,
whether you have kids
“
to make retirement a priority. or not, whether you have
And her parents, siblings and peers
encouraged it. “They told me they lots of money or not.”
wished they had started when they —MELANIE KNOEPFLE, THRIVENT FINANCIAL PROFESSIONAL
were my age,” Lehman says. “They
said it for a reason, and I thought it
was best to take their advice.”
Callie and her husband, Brent,
both in their late 20s, met with their
Thrivent Financial professional, high risk tolerance, you can be more Myth 2:
Lydia Hiesterman, to help develop aggressive with your investments. I should take Social
their savings strategy. And the potential of compounding Security as soon as
“A lot of people think it’s not a your earnings may be greater.” I’m eligible.
top priority because of student debt, However, she adds, past performance
trying to save for a house, etc. But I is not necessarily indicative of future You’ve likely heard this statement, or
disagree,” says Lehman, who works results, and everyone’s investment something like it, especially if you’re
for the Kansas 4-H Foundation. risk tolerance is different. nearing retirement. While this may
Her husband is the maintenance Most people have room for it in be true for some, it really depends on
assistant at a nursing home in Linn, their budget, Hiesterman says. It your personal scenario, says Deb Beck,
Kansas. The couple lives in Linn doesn’t mean it will always be easy, a Thrivent Financial professional in
with their 1-year-old son. but if you get on an automatic The Villages, Florida.
Hiesterman, of Washington, payment plan, it helps. “Set it and “I often hear ‘I paid into it this
Kansas, encourages their saving forget it,” she says. long, and I want to get it,’” Beck says.
strategy. “I firmly believe in first Lehman agrees. “If you don’t see “Ultimately, it’s your decision, but one
making sure they have a strong base it, you don’t even think about it. of the things you’re going to want to
with insurance, then to start saving Plus, I can see us being able to retire think about is your life expectancy,
in a retirement vehicle. early. For us, it’s that balance of especially considering family history.”
“Time is on your side when you saving and spending and having fun In many cases, people are living
start young,” she says, “If you have a while doing it.” longer today than their parents did,
Beck explains. Delaying the start of
Social Security may provide a larger
check in those later years, perhaps
when needed most, she says.
Thrivent member John Pankop of
Send us your question Cromwell, Indiana, retired at age 62.
Is there something you’ve heard that you wonder if it’s true or false? He’s now 66, and after conversations
Send it to us at Thriventmagazine@Thrivent.com. We may answer with Beck, he’s thinking about waiting
it in a future issue. until 70 to start drawing his Social
Security. That was not the original
16 | THRIVENT MAGAZINE | SPRING 2020plan he and his wife had discussed.
“There is longevity on my side of
the family,” Pankop says. “My father
died at 90, my grandfather at 95 and
my grandmother at 100. I have long
genes.”
He’s also run his numbers. “At age kop
John Panem
66, I looked at what my payment ber)
(Thrivent m
would be and figured out the amount
of money I’d be paid if I lived to
86,” he says. “Then I looked at my
payment at age 70, calculated it out
for 16 years, and the payment was
significantly higher.”
If the longevity proves true, then
it will be good that he has the extra
dollars later. Plus, he added, he doesn’t
need that money right now.
Another consideration, Beck says, is
future income needs for your spouse.
When one spouse dies, you’ll lose the
lower of the two Social Security checks
you may have received as a couple.
As with longevity, if you wait to start
taking Social Security, a potentially
larger monthly payment may be
beneficial for the living spouse. Deb Beck
(Thrivent Fina
“I’ve tossed around the question ncial
professional)
of what if I don’t live that long or
if Social Security will still be here,”
Pankop says. “If you need it, then you
should take it. If you don’t, it doesn’t
hurt to wait another year and then
re-evaluate.”
PHOTOS (TOP) BY BRIAN RODGERS JR., (BOTTOM) DOUG SCALETTA
Myth 3:
I don’t need a will.
A will is a must-consider, whether
you have kids or not, whether you
have lots of money or not. It’s key if
you want any say over who inherits
your estate—which includes not only
money, but everything you own, like
a house, car and any possessions,
THRIVENT.COM | 17says Melanie Knoepfle, a Thrivent
Financial professional in Columbus,
Nebraska.
But a will is even more than that.
Think of it as a final gift to your loved
ones as you make your wishes clear.
Sometimes people think that if
they’re single, they don’t need a How Thrivent Can Help
will. But then your money may not
go where you hoped. For example, Talk to a Thrivent Financial professional
depending on the laws in the state If you need an answer to a financial question,
where you live, your parents may reach out to your Thrivent Financial professional
inherit rather than your siblings, or contact the Thrivent Financial Guidance Team at
Knoepfle says. 888-834-7434 or guidance@thrivent.com.
“Or if you have family members
Lead or attend a Thrivent workshop
you’re estranged from, your money Thrivent also has several workshops available that
may end up going to them even if you can participate in.
you’ve not talked in 20 years and you
were adamant that they should get Advanced topics led by Thrivent Financial
nothing,” she says. professionals include:
Social Security: Timing Is Everything
If you’re divorcing, and it’s not yet
Five Keys to Retiring Fearlessly
finalized, your spouse may inherit Prepare Wisely: End of Life Strategies
everything when that was not your Building Your Retirement Foundation
intent.
“Do you care about a church or Or you can choose to host a workshop in your home,
charity? Without a will, there is a church or community. You simply order a kit for $20.
Topics include:
risk a court won’t give it to the places
Do One Thing Different
you supported even if you told them Finding Ways to Save
multiple times that you want your
assets to go to them,” Knoepfle says. Visit MoreThanMoneyMatters.com or contact your
If you have kids, a will is the formal Thrivent Financial professional for more information.
record of whom you choose to be the
guardian of minor children if both
parents die, as well as who should
handle the funds that the children
would receive.
“Sometimes there are fights between
family members as to who should have
the children, and perhaps you wanted
your best friends to have them,” she Myth 4: and about $50 in her checking
says. “Without a will, the court has I don’t have enough account and $100 in savings.
no idea of that desire and will not money to meet with a “I didn’t have any money, and
give custody of your children to non- financial professional. I knew I was pretty financially
relatives.” illiterate,” Myers says. All that
A final reminder on a will—don’t Anne Myers had just finished changed when she met with Vann
just do it and forget it. It’s important graduate school. The Thrivent Doubleday, her Thrivent Financial
to revisit your will periodically to member from Savannah, Georgia, professional in Savannah. They
make sure it still reflects your wishes. had about $55,000 in student loans talked about her loans, her goals,
18 | THRIVENT MAGAZINE | SPRING 2020It’s not about how much money you have.
It’s about uncovering your passions, offering
insight and improving your financial clarity.
—VANN DOUBLEDAY, THRIVENT FINANCIAL PROFESSIONAL
and strategies to begin saving for offering insight and improving your prepared, which is why he met with
emergencies and retirement. financial clarity. Steward a few years ago to discuss life
A year after those first insurance. He had a small contract his
conversations with Doubleday, parents purchased for him as a child.
Myers had about $1,200 in savings “I’m an engineer—I spend a lot of
and also was setting aside money Myth 5: time on work projects thinking about
for retirement. “Within three I’m young and healthy. what can go wrong,” Kilkenny says.
years, I was able to secure enough I’m single. I don’t need “It gives me an appreciation of how
savings that if I would lose my life insurance. quickly something can go wrong.”
job, I’d be set for six months,” says He’s also had a family member
Myers, the assistant director of Brian Steward, a Thrivent Financial diagnosed with cancer in his 20s. “It’s
residence life at a local college. professional in Peoria Heights, Illinois, a reminder of how life, too, can change
“Vann told me that the only one can understand how someone can very quickly,” Kilkenny says.
who is going to take care of the think that. But in reality, he says, it’s Life insurance is important, he
old me is the young me,” she says. the perfect time to get life insurance. says, because funerals are expensive,
“I had been getting lost in the “You want to lock it in now because and he doesn’t want to put any family
long-term goals, so he encouraged we don’t know what the future members at a financial disadvantage if
me to set the short-term goals to holds,” Steward says. “I’ll tell people the unforeseen should happen.
help meet those long-term goals.” about others in my life—people I’ve Kilkenny was 31 and single when he
For Doubleday, conversations known—who said the same thing and purchased his insurance contract. He’s
about values and goals are the their health changed. Then they either now engaged to be married.
starting place for developing a short- couldn’t get life insurance or it was “Michael purchased a safeguard
and long-term financial strategy. more expensive.” that even if something should happen
“I like to use a dartboard Thrivent member Michael Kilkenny to his health, his family is protected,”
analogy,” Doubleday says. “If you of Peoria, Illinois, says it’s better to be Steward says. ◾
walk into a dark room and I hand
you a dart and tell you to hit the
board, it’s going to be hard to hit
the target. You can’t see it. Now, I The members’ experiences may not be the same THRIVENT IS THE MARKETING NAME FOR THRIVENT
can’t guarantee we’ll hit the bull’s- as other members’ and does not indicate future FINANCIAL FOR LUTHERANS. Insurance products
performance or success. issued by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Not
eye, but I can turn the lights on and available in all states. Licensed agent/producer of
show you the board.” Thrivent Financial professionals have general Thrivent. Thrivent.com/disclosures.
It’s not about how much knowledge of the Social Security tenets. For
complete details on your situation, contact the Thrivent and its financial professionals do not
money you have, he says. It’s Social Security Administration. provide legal, accounting or tax advice. Consult your
about uncovering your passions, attorney or tax professional.
THRIVENT.COM | 1920 | THRIVENT MAGAZINE | SPRING 2020
Prep a rin g
for th e
How would you make money if you suddenly
couldn’t work due to an illness or injury?
Disability income insurance can be an
essential part of your financial safety net.
By Stacey Freed • Illustrations by Rocco Baviera
F
our years ago, Melinda Busch, a dental hygienist from Frisco, Texas, slammed her ring
finger in a door and crushed it. “It’s a fulcrum finger that we use to stabilize while
manipulating instruments. I never thought something like this would occur,” says the
now 37-year-old. She was out of work at the dental clinic for six months.
In January 2019, Bradley Messerschmidt, a Thrivent Financial professional in Spokane,
Washington, was diagnosed with testicular cancer at age 33. He needed surgery and
chemotherapy. He, too, was out of work for six months.
These are two very different scenarios, but the impact is the same. The chances of missing
work due to illness or injury are greater than you may realize. People are often familiar with
disability income insurance since many employers offer it as part of their benefits package.
Basically, you get sick or injured, are unable to work and the insurance kicks in. But not
everyone has it. And what they do have may not be enough. ○
THRIVENT IS THE MARKETING NAME FOR THRIVENT FINANCIAL FOR LUTHERANS.
THRIVENT.COM | 21It’s something for people of all
ages to think about, especially young
adults. According to the Social DOES YOUR EMPLOYER OFFER
Security Administration, more than DISABILITY INCOME INSURANCE?
one in four of today’s 20-year-olds can
expect to be out of work for a least
If Yes…
Remember that the benefits it pays could be taxed. It may be
a year due to a disabling condition in your best interest to add a personal contract that can wrap
before they reach age 67.1 around the insurance you have from your employer. If your
Both Busch and Messerschmidt did employer covers 50% of your income, you can get a personal
something years ago in their work life disability income insurance contract that would cover another
that most people don’t think about. 20%. You won’t pay taxes on that 20%. Group disability
income insurance coverages vary.
They bought personal disability
income insurance. If Not…
Messerschmidt purchased his You can purchase it on your own. It’s there to help you pay
contract in 2013 while he was working the bills in case something happens to you.
as an engineer in a company that didn’t
offer it as a benefit. He learned about
the importance of disability income
insurance only when a work friend
suggested that he and his wife, Lindsey, the choice. As Busch puts it, “Getting income insurance. “It makes sense for
meet with a financial professional to this policy was the smartest decision anyone who has earned income,” says
talk about their future. “I was 28, had I ever made.” Jason Jupiterwala, a Thrivent Financial
a desk job, and I thought there wasn’t professional in Allen, Texas.
much that could happen to me sitting Contract Choices But why get a personal disability
at my computer. Like many people, “Disability income insurance is income insurance contract if your
disability income insurance wasn’t on about protecting a person’s most employer already offers one? It’s
my radar,” he says. important asset—their ability to likely that the income from your work
Busch was only 24 years old in 2006 earn an income,” says Steve Sperka, contract is taxable, says Jupiterwala.
when she purchased a contract at vice president of health insurance “If your employer covers the premium,
the urging of her parents. “They were products at Thrivent. There are the benefits you receive may be
insistent that I get a disability income different products to help you do that, taxable. This reduces the amount you
insurance policy because my dad had a and you determine how much of your would receive.”
heart attack when I was in high school, income you want to get protection for. “Let’s say you make $100,000,
and he was on disability and out of Whether you’re self-employed, and your employer contract covers
work for quite a while,” she says. work full time or part time or your you up to 50%. You could consider
Both Messerschmidt and Busch are employer offers a disability benefit, purchasing a contract that would
immensely grateful that they’d made you can purchase personal disability get you to about 70% to 75% of your
income,” says Sperka. “And the money
you’d receive from your personal
contract likely wouldn’t be taxable.”
At the time he purchased his
IN A NUTSHELL contract, Messerschmidt was earning
Disability Income Insurance:
about $65,000 a year. If he were to
Covers serious health conditions and long-term become disabled and unable to work,
illnesses the contract would pay 75% of his
monthly post-tax income for five
At time of purchase, you can design how long you years. It cost him $32.29 a month, and
would want benefits paid: 12 months, 24 months,
he could take it with him if he lost or
60 months, 10 years or to age 67
left his job.
Wraps around an employer-offered contract or can While he chose a five-year option,
be purchased on its own it’s possible to purchase a contract
22 | THRIVENT MAGAZINE | SPRING 2020that covers you for two, five or 10
years or until you turn 65 or 67,
“I was 28, had a desk job, and I thought
depending on the plan you choose. there wasn’t much that could happen to
If you lose your job while you are me sitting at my computer. Like many
disabled, you still will receive the
money from your personal contract. people, disability income insurance
And if you get another job, your wasn’t on my radar.”
personal disability income insurance —BRADLEY MESSERSCHMIDT
will follow you at the same income
amount as when you originally
purchased the contract. Premium
payments can be set up automatically annually as your income increases, past eight years, we’ve experienced a
and can be scheduled monthly, without medical underwriting, in lifetime of medical issues,” he says.
quarterly, semiannually or annually, exchange for a higher premium. Even Messerschmidt and Busch feel that
and it’s possible to purchase a feature if you develop a health condition, having a personal income disability
that indexes the pay to inflation. you can purchase additional coverage contract gave them an extra sense of
The other nice thing about these under the existing contract. reassurance. “You don’t buy insurance
contracts is that it’s sort of a “rolling There are even contract options because you want to use it; you buy
benefit.” If, for example, you use for stay-at-home spouses, whose it because it’ll be there if you need
four months of a five-year disability work is valued in the home but who it,” Messerschmidt says. “And I can’t
contract and then return to work for may not have income from external imagine not having this insurance in
six months full time, the clock restarts sources. For example, a stay-at- place with everything that’s gone on
for your five years. home spouse could purchase up to a in our lives.” ◾
That was helpful for Busch who, in $2,000-a-month benefit with a two-
June 2019, had to have carpal tunnel year payout period that could be used Stacey Freed is a freelance writer in
surgery. As of November of that year, if that person should become disabled. Pittsford, New York.
she was still on full-time disability
leave. Her employer, she says, is Extra Sense of Reassurance
holding her job for her. She had During Messerschmidt’s six-month
chosen a contract that would cover disability leave, he chose not to dip
her until she turns 65. “This means into his employer-sponsored disability 1
Social Security Administration, “Disability and
that her contract would last until 65 income insurance contract, which Death Probability Tables for Insured Workers Born
in 1997,” ssa.gov/oact/NOTES/ran6/an2017-6.
no matter how many times the benefit had a 120-day waiting period before pdf, Table A
is triggered on and off to that point,” it kicked in. He would have claimed
Jupiterwala says. if he could have received two months Insurance products issued by Thrivent Financial
for Lutherans. Not available in all states. Licensed
What if your income increases? of benefit, but because he was back agent/producer of Thrivent. Thrivent.com/
A future purchase option (FPO) lets to work on a part-time basis, he only disclosures.
you increase your insurance coverage would have received a week’s worth of
The members’ experiences may not be the same
pay after the elimination period. as other members’ and does not indicate future
Even though the Messerschmidts performance or success.
have some additional burdens—
If requested, a licensed insurance agent/producer
they are raising two children with may contact you, and financial solutions, including
disabilities, and a third child, their insurance, may be solicited.
HOW THRIVENT oldest, passed away in 2015—the
CAN HELP family was able to make it through
Disability income insurance contracts have
Only a few insurers offer disability exclusions, limitations, reductions of benefits and
protection to spouses who stay the months when Messerschmidt was terms under which the contract may be continued
out of work without harming their in force or discontinued. For costs and complete
at home. Thrivent is one of them. details of coverage, contact your licensed insurance
Learn more at Thrivent.com/DI savings. As far as Messerschmidt agent/producer.
or contact your Thrivent Financial knows, he’s healthy now. He and his
professional. wife, Lindsey, are focused on their Thrivent and its financial professionals do not
provide legal, accounting or tax advice. Consult your
family. “I’d venture to say, in the attorney or tax professional.
THRIVENT.COM | 23
Into
Service
Looking for a fresh take on generosity?
Take your cues from the season that’s unfolding all around you.
By Kathleen Childers • Photo by Louise Palmberg
pring often comes in fits and starts. But eventually, even the harshest, longest
winter lets go, giving way to some welcome changes. Our physical senses pick up on
them: Buds swell, grass starts to green up and the morning chorus of birds grows
louder each day. We respond to the changes spiritually, too, as the season leading up
to Easter brings the promise of renewal and rebirth.
Spring also can be a time to search for fresh ways to live generously. For example, the
yard chores on your to-do list are probably the same ones you could do for others needing
assistance. Your annual neighborhood block party could become a fundraiser for a favorite
charity. Your April garage sale might support a family in crisis. There are many more ideas,
including the following five from members. They found ways to further their service in
spring, with the help of one of Thrivent’s generosity programs, Thrivent Action Teams.
24 | THRIVENT MAGAZINE | SPRING 2020Sarah Humphrey (left) and
Karen Maresco worked with
White Post Farms in Melville,
New York, on their fundraiser to
raise money for a mission trip.
THRIVENT.COM | 25Plant Sale
Sarah Humphrey and Karen Maresco
took their cues from spring when
they organized a fundraiser last May.
They sold flats of flower and vegetable
seedlings to support a mission trip
to Ponce, Puerto Rico, that was
planned for July. Humphrey created
a Thrivent Action Team to help. The
team gathered plant orders from
their church, St. Peter’s, and their
community, Huntington Station, New
York, and picked up the flats from the
grower and helped deliver them.
“With spring and people working
in their gardens, we thought selling
plants would be a good way to raise
money,” says Humphrey. “And we held
it just before Mother’s Day, thinking
people would want to purchase flats
as gifts.”
Humphrey and Maresco started
planning the sale over the winter.
They contacted a local nursery
months ahead of time to arrange for
the flats. And they gave themselves
plenty of time to advertise in several
ways. “We didn’t just rely on social
media to get the word out,” Humphrey
says. “We announced it in the church
bulletin, and we passed out order
forms to people at our workplaces and
local businesses.”
The sale raised $1,931, which was by Rhonda Harman. They grow beautifully. “The critters stayed away,”
used for supplies taken to Puerto potatoes in a large bed, and lettuce, Amundson says, “and the raised
Rico. While there, the mission trip kale, peas and other vegetables and beds produced about 315 pounds of
team partnered with a local church herbs in raised beds. Unfortunately, vegetables for the food pantry.” The
and repaired hurricane-damaged local deer, racoons and other critters potato patch also was harvested and
homes, taught Vacation Bible School, also looked forward to the annual donated in early fall by gardeners.
visited nursing homes and did prayer planting—they were consuming
walks with local residents. the raised-bed crops before church Easter Egg Hunt
“Spring is a good time to reflect,” members could harvest them. Winters are especially long in
says Humphrey, “and to get out there So last spring, Thrivent member Pipestone, Minnesota, so when Easter
and experience God’s creation.” Jean Amundson, whose husband, arrives, it’s particularly welcome and
Paul, helps with the gardening, inspiring. For Our Saviour’s Lutheran
Garden Project organized a Thrivent Action Team at Church, it’s also an opportunity to
Members of Atonement Lutheran Atonement to critter-proof the raised bring the community together for an
PHOTO BY NATALIE PULS
Church in Newport, Oregon, look beds. Church members built sturdy annual Easter egg hunt. Last year’s
forward to spring when they can plant fences that keep the intruders out event drew 70 kids and parents. They
vegetables that they donate to a local but can be removed when the raised searched for eggs and enjoyed snacks,
food pantry. The effort is spearheaded beds need tending. The fences worked a craft activity and a talk by the pastor.
26 | THRIVENT MAGAZINE | SPRING 2020You can also read
