Generally, the term ‘planned giving’ is used to describe a gift made from an estate to a charity or non-profit organization. Though many people do not have a will and may not want to think about how to distribute their possessions when they pass away, thoughtfully planning your estate can be a powerful way to leave a final statement on the things you value, and your legacy gift can impact the Church for years to come.
Too often faithful parishioners and volunteers fail to realize the impact their contributions have on a parish, school, or ministry in which they participate. Upon their death not only their presence and work, but also their financial contributions, are lost, and the mission of the Parish or ministry suffers. By leaving a bequest to the parish or organization that has nourished your faith, you ensure that even when you are no longer able to be physically present your ideals and generosity are carried on and the mission reaches to future generations.
For many of us, our will may also be one of our only opportunities to give extravagantly to the Church. Even if you don’t consider yourself wealthy, a 10% tithe on your estate can be invested in an endowment and provide a steady stream of supplemental income to the Catholic cause of your choice for years to come.
Just as no one would forget to include a beloved child in their will, so no faithful Catholic should forget the Church!
For more information or for help planning your Catholic Legacy today, contact Dominic Blanchard, Coordinator of Planned Giving, at (928)352-1152.
The victor I will make into a pillar in the temple of my God, and he will never leave it again. On him I will inscribe the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from my God, as well as my new name.- Revelation 12:13
The Pillars Legacy Society is the group of those who have or will leave a legacy gift to a Parish, School, or other local Catholic organization in the Diocese of Gallup.
Why “Pillars”?
Firstly, pillars hold up a structure. Just as many Churches have pillars which hold up the roof, stabilize the walls, and provide a fitting setting for worship, so in the life of the Church certain people act as the “pillars” who hold up the community through their prayers, joyful service, and financial generosity.
Secondly, in the ancient world, the Bible, and even in the present day, pillars are frequently set up as memorials of great events. Conquering Roman emperors would set up a pillar with relief carvings to commemorate a successful military campaign, and King Solomon set up two great bronze pillars in the temple at Jerusalem.
Your legacy to the Church is a sort of memorial “pillar” to all that God has done for you throughout your life, and witnesses to the importance of your faith and the Church. Further, by generously providing for the future of the Church you become a pillar to hold up the spiritual house God is building in the hearts of all the faithful.
Membership
Unless the donor states otherwise, a person is enrolled in the Pillars Legacy Society upon receipt of his or her legacy by a Catholic organization in the Church of Gallup, or upon receipt of a copy of their completed will or trust documents showing a Catholic organization as a planned recipient of a legacy gift. A donor may choose to be enrolled by name or anonymously, according to their wishes. Upon enrollment members will receive:
- A certificate of recognition as a member of the Pillars Legacy Society.
- Invitations to our annual Mass, reception, and other exclusive local or diocesan events.
- The Pillars Legacy Society seasonal newsletter (2-4 times a year).
- Periodic thanks and acknowledgement of your membership and commitment to the Church.
- The gratitude, thanks, and prayers of all those involved in and benefitting from the work of the Catholic Church in Gallup.
The Pillars Legacy Society is a program of the Catholic People’s Foundation to promote planned giving to Catholic causes in the Diocese of Gallup, and is not in itself a separate entity or organization. For questions contact Dominic Blanchard, Coordinator of Planned Giving, at (928)352-1152.
