The pandemic we are all experiencing together has introduced a new sense of busy into our lives. We are now faced with balancing working from home, schooling our kids, shopping and preparing meals in the safest way possible, keeping our home virus-free and looking out for our “at risk” family and community members who need help getting food and supplies. On top of these day to day activities, we have the added stress of worrying about the health of our loved ones.
During this challenging time, our greatest source of love and guidance is as always, our Savior, Jesus Christ, the constant in our lives. When our spirits are at their lowest and we are fearful of the unknown, we must take time to pray and remember that God is always with us and will give us the strength we need. Many find during the quiet of prayer that they not only thank God for His goodness, but they also contemplate deep questions about how they will leave this world; what their legacy will be.
One way to solidify your legacy is through estate planning. Each year, the Diocese of Norwich proclaims June as “Leave a Legacy” month. Through this initiative parishioners are reminded of the importance of giving through estate planning. With your generosity and planning you can make a gift through your future estate, or even right now, if you desire. The pandemic has greatly increased the needs of our parishes and ministries, all of whom could benefit from a planned gift.
There are many ways to “Leave a Legacy,” ranging from updating your will to include a gift to your parish, diocese, school or ministry; making your parish the beneficiary of your life insurance policy if your kids have grown and your mortgage paid; and naming a diocesan entity as the beneficiary of a portion of your pension or IRA, just to name a few. Establishing an endowment with the Catholic Foundation through your will or during your lifetime is another great way to ensure that your favorite diocesan entity is supported in perpetuity.
As always, all decisions regarding your estate and planned gifts should be reviewed with your attorney and financial adviser. For more information about various ways to “Leave a Legacy,” please contact Mary Ellen Mahoney, Director of Development, at (860) 886-1928, ext. 113 or e-mail memahoney@norwichdiocese.net. You may also visit the Planned Giving portion of the Development Office website.
By Mary Ellen Mahoney