It’s only thanks to generous gifts made by parishioners that we’ve been here for over 50 years serving the faithful. At the 3 Churches we have always been grateful for the gifts made by parishioners to the Church. But an increasing number of our generous supporters are asking about the best ways to donate. Like most of us you probably receive literature about gifts and bequests to charities. Many of them have big resources to mount such campaigns, whereas a diocese does not, let alone a parish.

You may have come across the brochure called, A Gift to Our Church. Starting with a message from Archbishop George, the booklet includes details of where the Archdiocese has existing commitments but also, in the case of training new priests, a vision for the future.

Archbishop George explains, “To make a gift, especially a bequest, is a very personal and private act of generosity and we want to ensure that we meet the wishes of the donor… My message to any parishioner who is thinking of making a gift, of any type, is please speak to your Parish Priest or if you would prefer directly to me. We can establish your wishes and take all necessary steps to ensure that these wishes are met.”

Gifts to the Archdiocese have in fact made an enormous contribution to churches across all of the Deanery Areas. The Gift to Our Church brochure highlights just some of the good work already underway, including our commitment to seminarians and retired clergy.

On Tuesday 18 June at 7pm in St Brigid’s Hall you will have the opportunity to attend an informal meeting explaining how to make a personal gift or legacy. This will be an opportunity to meet staff from Archbishop’s House to discuss how to make a personal bequest, or a gift in memory of a loved one.

For those who are interested, the Archdiocese will be making available expertise in this area including solicitors who can assist with the drafting of a will.

Fr Matthew