Christian relief and development agency Tearfund is asking Christians to consider leaving a legacy in their will as part of their discipleship.

Tearfund made the call following its decision to join the Christian Legacy consortium, a group of Christian charities which encourages people to leave a gift to their favourite Christian charities when writing their will.

The consortium is premised on the belief that Christian legacies are not only of financial value to charities but are important in continuing to transform lives far into the future.

Paul Brigham, Tearfund’s UK Director, says: "Because so many Christians have not yet considered leaving a legacy to a Christian charity as part of their lifetime’s discipleship, Tearfund is passionate about joining with other charities to encourage people to consider prayerfully this important area of ministry.

"Partnerships are key to everything Tearfund sets out to achieve, and we’re pleased and privileged to be working alongside other Christian organisations as part of this consortium."

Tearfund is the latest Christian charity to join the consortium. Others include Bible Society, Church Mission Society and Leprosy Mission.