“Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.”

I always appreciate and value the opportunity to observe the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed, or All Souls' Day. While we remember our loved ones throughout the year, perhaps on birthdays, anniversaries, or other personal occasions, this is a special time dedicated to prayerfully remembering all those who have gone before us.

In many parishes, the names of those who passed away during the past year are read aloud, bringing each person to mind and prayer. Among those names are people who helped build our parishes, served in ministries, shared their gifts on committees, taught and witnessed the faith to us, and generously supported the mission of the Church. Their contributions helped shape the communities we know and love today.

As we remember them, we are also reminded that a legacy is about more than what we leave behind. It is about the faith we pass on, the values we instill, and the good works we help carry forward for generations to come.

This is one reason planned giving deserves a place in the ongoing conversation about stewardship. As fundraisers, we often wonder whether those who have given so much throughout their lives have also considered including their parish, school, or diocese in their estate plans. A planned gift offers an opportunity to continue supporting a mission that has been important to them, even beyond their lifetime.

Whether we are conducting a feasibility study or leading a capital campaign, planned giving awareness is part of the conversation. One common concern we hear is that people want to leave everything to their children and grandchildren. But a planned gift does not have to be an either-or decision. With thoughtful planning, individuals can provide for their loved ones while also making a lasting investment in the mission of the Church.

So, how can your parish, school, or organization begin that conversation?

• Make it easy to express interest. Add a simple checkbox option to annual stewardship renewals or other forms:
• I have remembered [Parish/Organization Name] in my will or estate plan.
• I would like information about including [Parish/Organization Name] in my will or estate plan.
• Use the communication vehicles you already have. Newsletters, websites, social media, parish bulletins, pulpit announcements, and annual reports are all opportunities to educate your community about planned giving.
• Keep the message simple and welcoming. A statement such as, “Please consider remembering [Organization Name] in your will or estate plans. Contact us for more information,” can open the door to a meaningful conversation. Include a designated link or contact person for those who would like to learn more.
• Connect estate planning with stewardship. Preparing a will is a responsible way to care for family and loved ones. It can also be an opportunity to share God's gifts by leaving a legacy of faith that continues the mission of the Church.
• Share the impact of legacy gifts. When appropriate, tell the stories of those who have remembered your organization and explain how their generosity has made a difference.
• Offer educational opportunities. Consider hosting seminars on wills, estate planning, and charitable giving with trusted attorneys and financial advisors. Your diocesan development office or board of directors may be able to help.
• Make the giving process clear. Publish the exact legal name of your institution so that gifts are properly directed and avoid unnecessary complications.
• Recognize and thank those who have made a commitment. A legacy society can provide a meaningful way to honor those who have included your organization in their plans. Consider an annual Mass, a reception with leadership, or recognition in your annual report.

Planned gifts can take many forms, including bequests through a will or trust, appreciated stocks and securities, real estate, donor advised funds, life insurance, retirement plans, and other charitable giving arrangements.

As significant wealth transfers take place between generations, there is an important opportunity for our parishes, schools, and dioceses to help people understand how they can provide for their families while continuing to support the faith communities that have meant so much to them.

This All Souls’ Day, we remember those who came before us, appreciate the gifts entrusted to us, and consider how we can help the legacy of faith live on. 

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