Planned Giving for Catholic Dioceses, Parishes, and Ministries

Every Catholic community — from the smallest parish to the largest diocese or school — holds the potential to build an enduring legacy of faith through planned giving. Yet many ministries overlook this opportunity, even as they nurture generations of faithful parishioners who long to give back in a meaningful way.

Planned and legacy gifts are not merely financial instruments; they’re expressions of faith and stewardship — ways for parishioners to ensure the mission of the Church continues long after they’re gone.

Believe it or not, your parish or diocese already has everything it needs to build a powerful, endowment-strengthening planned giving program.

In fact, Harvard would envy what your parish has — a deeply loyal, values-driven community that gathers every Sunday. Yet it’s an audience that’s too often overlooked when it comes to Planned and Legacy Gifts.

Meanwhile, many follow “the story of Bob”: faithfully giving a few dollars each week, yet rarely thinking beyond their weekly offertory — leaving transformative opportunities untapped.

Why the Disconnect?

Simply put, leadership often lacks the time or training to pursue planned and major gifts. Some hesitate because the territory feels unfamiliar — after all, professional fundraisers dedicate years to mastering it. Others fear that partnering with the Diocese or Archdiocese might divert gifts away from their parish.

The truth? The shepherding and stewardship of the Diocese or Archdiocese actually increase realized gifts. And when that happens, a rising tide lifts all boats.

Education and Marketing Are Key

The key to unlocking your parish’s planned giving potential lies in two words: education and marketing. The good news? We make both simple — even for lay leadership.

“Marketing” may sound like a word every Catholic leader dreads. But your parishioners are waiting to hear from the pulpit that leaving a legacy is part of their faith journey. They are your acres of diamonds — already in your pews, ready to be inspired.

We provide the tools, videos, and guidance to help dioceses, parishes, and schools inspire and secure more — and larger — planned gifts. It’s clear, faithful, and effective.

The Time Is Now

This is a historic moment for the Catholic Church — an opportunity for both growth and financial stability. But it’s not eternal. The best time to start a planned and major gifts program was 25 years ago. The second-best time is now.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign, this is it.