Spring, alongside Eastertide, is my favorite time of year. As we reflect on the resurrection of Jesus, we rejoice in the new life God has given us through Christ’s sacrifice, celebrating this gift until Pentecost Sunday marks the conclusion of the Easter season. After the long fast of Lent, we proclaim Alleluia in gratitude that Christ is Risen.
Spring mirrors this sense of new life. After the dormant months of winter, the earth awakens with vibrant color. I love watching the progression of colors throughout the Spring—the bright yellow daffodils, delicate white snowdrops, multicolored tulips, fragrant purple lilacs, striking red bleeding hearts, and lush pink peonies.
Just as the earth renews itself each spring, we are entrusted with the care of what has been passed down to us. Pope Francis reminds us of this responsibility: “We received this world as an inheritance from past generations, but also as a loan from future generations, to whom we will have to return it.” One way to honor this stewardship is through supporting the missions of The Basilica and The Basilica Landmark.
Ways to Support The Basilica and The Basilica Landmark
- Volunteer your time and talents – There are countless opportunities to get involved at The Basilica and The Basilica Landmark.
- Donate appreciated assets – Stocks, bonds, and other assets can be valuable ways to give.
- Make a gift from your IRA or Donor-Advised Fund – It is easy to rollover the required minimum distribution from your IRA to benefit The Basilica and reduce your taxable income. Or make a gift designation from your donor-advised fund.
- Leave a Planned Gift – Include a bequest in your will or trust, or name The Basilica or The Basilica Landmark as a beneficiary of your life insurance policy or IRA .
Just as spring’s renewal transforms the landscape, planned giving can be transformational for both you and The Basilica. Giving from our estates fulfills a universal desire to make a difference, allowing us to steward the gifts God has entrusted to us and return them as an investment in God’s work.
Legacy giving is a healing ministry—addressing the burdens that often come with decisions about distributing assets after death. Faithful parishioners have invested in Catholic Church through years of attendance; planned giving provides a meaningful way to honor that family history. Because these gifts come from assets rather than income, they often represent the largest contributions you can make in your lifetime.
By establishing a planned gift, you automatically become a member of the Landmark Legacy Society. Legacy Society members receive exclusive communications, special publications, and invitations to events, including the annual Legacy Society Brunch each fall.
Upcoming Opportunities to Learn More
Have questions about planned giving? Join us after the 9:30 and noon Masses on Sunday, May 18 for our “Ask a Financial Planner or Lawyer” tabling event, where professionals will answer your questions about financial and estate planning.
Looking for deeper guidance? Attend our Planned Giving Workshop in August. Whether you’re just beginning to think about your will, need advice on trusts, or want to ensure your loved ones are cared for, this event is a valuable opportunity to receive expert insights.
If you have any immediate questions, please contact Sue.
The Basilica of Saint Mary is a gift passed down through generations, reflecting our ancestors’ bold and generous vision. It is a cherished legacy—one that we are called to protect and preserve for those who will come after us.
“Let us ask the Lord for the grace of being generous, so that our hearts may be opened and we may become kinder.” – Pope Francis
Alleluia!