PLANNED GIVING
As a young boy, Joseph was baptized in his neighborhood Catholic church and went on to attend the parish school, sing in the choir, and marry his sweetheart at the altar in the presence of his beloved church family.
Joseph also raised his children faithfully in this parish community, and for over 60 years contributed every week to the church offertory and its special causes. As a widower, he continued to be a very grateful and giving person. Recently, Joseph died and left $1 million in his will to a worthy nonprofit in the neighborhood.
Why them, one might ask? The explanation is simple. He was asked somewhere, sometime, somehow by somebody to consider including them in his estate plan. In turn, he came to understand the need and responded in kind to the request.
This Joseph’s story is fictional, but at the same time, all too familiar.
Here’s a word of advice to our pastoral leaders: this is not complicated. In fact, it’s scriptural: “Ask and you shall receive.” (Luke 9:11) When it comes to charitable giving, a simple bequest in one’s will is often the largest donation a church — or nonprofit — will ever receive. Just remember Joseph.
This story is also about doing something when we are asked. So, consider yourself asked, that is, to think about including your Catholic parish, school and/or service organization the next time you update your will or living trust. If your estate plan is still on the drawing board, here are some important steps to help you plan wisely:
- Understand your assets, tax liabilities and opportunities
- Discuss your financial priorities and goals with loved ones
- Seek out valued professional and spiritual advisors
- Prepare your Catholic advance healthcare directive
- And don’t put off what you can do now
On behalf of all Catholic entities, mahalo nui loa for your generous stewardship of time, talent and treasure. For more information on these and other charitable giving opportunities, please contact the diocesan office of Stewardship and Development at 203-6723, or email mclark@rcchawaii.org.
Mark Clark is the diocesan director of the Office of Stewardship and Development.
