Leave a legacy of faith
by Diocese of Des Moines | April 25, 2025
As we move into the season of renewal and reflection, many Catholics consider ways to leave a meaningful legacy rooted in faith. Planned giving is a powerful way to ensure that Catholic values and traditions continue to thrive for generations to come. By incorporating charitable giving into your financial and estate plans, you can support your parish, Catholic schools, faith-based organizations, and charitable causes while also benefiting from potential tax advantages.
Ways to Make a Lasting Impact
There are several planned giving tools that allow you to support the Catholic Church and other charitable missions in a meaningful and strategic way:
Bequests in a Will or Trust – One of the simplest ways to leave a legacy is to include a charitable bequest in your will or trust. You can designate a specific amount, a percentage of your estate, or the remainder after other gifts are distributed to your parish, diocese, Catholic school, or a Catholic charity.
Charitable Gift Annuities – This option allows you to make a gift to your parish, Catholic Charities, or another Catholic organization while receiving fixed payments for life. The remainder of the gift then supports the mission of the Church, including education, social services, and evangelization.
IRA Charitable Rollovers – If you are 70½ or older, you can make a tax-free gift directly from your IRA to a qualified Catholic organization, including your parish, Catholic relief organizations, or diocesan funds. This strategy can help satisfy required minimum distributions while reducing taxable income.
Donor-Advised Funds – A DAF allows you to contribute to a fund, receive an immediate tax deduction, and recommend grants to Catholic charities over time. This provides flexibility in supporting Catholic ministries when it aligns with your financial goals. A DAF is an excellent way to teach multi-generational giving as well!
Charitable Remainder Trusts – This vehicle provides income to you or a loved one for life, with the remainder going to your designated Catholic charity, such as your parish, Catholic schools, or faith-based nonprofits.
Life Insurance and Retirement Assets – Naming your parish, Catholic diocese, or a Catholic charity as a beneficiary of a life insurance policy or retirement account is a simple way to make a lasting impact without affecting your current finances.
Spiritual and Financial Benefits of Planned Giving
Incorporating planned giving into your estate plan is not only a wise financial decision but also a deeply spiritual one. It allows you to express gratitude for God’s blessings while ensuring that the Church continues to grow and serve future generations. Additionally, many planned giving strategies offer tax benefits, such as income tax deductions, reduced estate taxes, and avoidance of capital gains taxes on appreciated assets.
Take the Next Step
If you are considering a planned gift, it is important to consult with your financial advisor, attorney, or with the Catholic Foundation of Southwest Iowa, the planned giving office for the Diocese of Des Moines. They can help you choose the best strategy to align with your financial goals and faith-driven legacy.
By planning today, you can make a lasting difference in the lives of others and leave a legacy of faith that endures for generations. This April, take a moment to reflect on how your generosity can continue to touch hearts and transform lives through the Catholic Church.
For more information, contact the Catholic Foundation at 515-237-5044 or email contact@cfswia.org