Legacy Giving (Planned Giving)

Planned giving—also called legacy giving—is a meaningful way to support the Church’s mission during your lifetime and beyond. It reflects thoughtful stewardship, ensuring that the values and ministries important to you today continue to thrive tomorrow.

While regular giving (such as weekly offertory or annual appeals) supports the Church’s daily work, a planned gift is a special act of faith and foresight. It often involves conversations with loved ones and professional advisors, and can be arranged to occur now, over time, or after your passing.

In keeping with Goal VI of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan Embracing a Future Full of Hope, planned giving helps the Diocese of London build a strong, faith-filled future—rooted in transparency, trust, and service

Types of Planned Gifts

There are many ways to make a planned gift:

• A bequest in your Will
• A gift of securities (stocks, mutual funds, bonds, GICs)
• A life insurance policy
• Donations from RRSPs/RRIFs
• Gifts of real estate or other property

Wills and Bequests

A Willis a legal document that ensures your estate is distributed according to your wishes. Without one, your estate will be distributed according to Ontario law—possibly excluding the Church and other causes close to your heart.

Why Have a Will?

• Ensures your family and charitable priorities are respected
• May reduce your heirs’ tax burden
• Provides clarity for your executor and family
• Can offer powerful support to the Church, your parish, and ministries you care about

Types of Bequests

• General Bequest: A specific amount, percentage of your estate, or asset
• Specific Bequest: A gift for a particular purpose (e.g. restoring a church, supporting youth ministry)
• Residual Bequest: A portion or all of what’s left after other commitments are fulfilled

Impact of a Legacy Gift

At Your Parish

• Support youth and family programs, sacramental prep, and outreach ministries
• Maintain and enhance church facilities
• Fund new construction or expansion projects

In the Diocese

• Aid ministries to the poor, newcomers, and vulnerable populations
• Support retired and infirm priests
• Promote vocations and formation for clergy and lay ministers
• Sustain evangelization and missionary outreach

Sample Wording for Your Will

To help you get started, here is sample wording you can bring to your lawyer:

• For a parish gift:
  “To pay to [Parish Name and Municipality], the sum of $__ or __% of the residue of my estate, for the general use of the parish.”
• For a diocesan gift:
  “To pay to the Roman Catholic Episcopal Corporation of the Diocese of London in Ontario, the sum of $__ or __% of the residue of my estate, for its general use.”

Planned Giving Brochure

Gifts of Securities

Donating appreciated securities is one of the most tax-smart ways to give in Canada. When you donate them directly, you avoid paying capital gains tax and receive a charitable tax receipt for the full market value.

Example: You bought shares for $25,000. Today, they’re worth $50,000.

• If you sell and donate cash: You’ll owe tax on the $25,000 gain.
• If you donate the shares directly: No capital gains tax, and a $50,000 donation receipt.

This can provide substantial tax savings. Speak with your advisor for details.

Charitable Donation of Shares Authorization Form
Donating Appreciated Securities (from BMO Nesbitt Burns)

Gifts of Life Insurance

A life insurance gift can leave a larger legacy than you might expect—without affecting your current finances.

Option A: Church is Owner and Beneficiary

• Assign a new or existing policy to the Church
• You continue paying premiums
• Receive annual tax receipts for premiums

Option B: Church is Beneficiary Only

• You keep ownership, name the Church as beneficiary
• Receive no tax credit during your lifetime
• Your estate receives a tax receipt for the full value upon death

This type of gift is often ideal for those who wish to leave a lasting legacy and still provide for family.

Who Can Make a Planned Gift?

Planned giving is not just for the wealthy. Anyone can make a legacy gift—big or small—and every gift makes a difference. Many people include the Church in their Will after ensuring their loved ones are cared for.

When Should You Start Planning?

The best time to plan is now—while your intentions are clear and you can take advantage of tax strategies. Without a plan, a large portion of your estate may be lost to taxes rather than directed to people and causes

Tax Considerations

Canada offers generous tax incentives for charitable gifts—both during your lifetime and through your estate. Legacy gifts can help offset taxes on capital gains, RRSPs, and other income.
Consult with a financial planner, accountant, or lawyer to explore what’s best for your circumstances.
you care about.

Funeral and End-of-Life Planning

As part of your legacy, consider pre-planning your Catholic funeral and Christian burial. This is a profound act of faith, bringing comfort to your loved ones and expressing your belief in the Resurrection.

Visit our Catholic Cemeteries Website 

We’re Here to Help

If you have any questions or would like to explore a legacy gift please reach out to either:

Andrew Jardine
Chief Financial Officer, Diocese of London
☎ 519-433-0658 X 222
✉ ajardine@dol.ca

Bridget Corneil
Director of Stewardship, Diocese of London
☎ 519-433-0658 X 270
✉ bcorneil@dol.ca

By including the Church in your estate plans, you express your faith in a tangible, lasting way. You help the Church grow, serve, and share the Gospel—today and for generations to come.

Thank you for considering this meaningful way to give.

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