As we reach the later stages of our lives, it is natural to plan so that our accumulated assets are well positioned to support those we love and the causes we hold dear, long after we are gone.
A gift in your will to the Franciscan Friars Conventual, who continue to follow their founder, St. Francis of Assisi, in spreading the gospel of Jesus and ministering to the poor, is a way of securing an enduring legacy.
The Friars, with your support, are a critical lifeline to so many unfortunate souls, providing access to education and fresh drinking water as well as medical facilities and supplies, just to name a few. Your gifts also support the education and formation of young friars, giving you a role in all the their amazing work.
If you do not yet have a will, it is very important that you have one in place. Without a will, your assets will be divided based on state and/or federal laws, instead of according to your wishes.
An attorney can assist you in preparing your will.
If you already have a will and wish to add a gift to the Friars, your attorney can help you with this as well. Here is some suggested language, for one of four options, to ensure your legacy of support to the Friars.
1. A Percentage of Your Estate: To leave a percentage of your estate to the Companions of St. Anthony, please state in your Will: “I give, devise, and bequeath to Companions of St. Anthony of Ellicott City, Maryland, _______% of my estate.”
2. Specific Property: To leave a specific piece of your property, please state:
“I give, devise and bequeath to the Companions of St. Anthony of Ellicott City, Maryland, (description of property), located at (exact location).”
3. Residue of Your Estate: The portion of your estate that is left after specific bequests to your family and loved ones have been distributed is referred to as the “Residue.” To leave such a bequest, please state:
“All residue of my estate, including real and personal property, I give, devise and bequeath to the Companions of St. Anthony of Ellicott City, Maryland.”
4. Specific Dollar Amount: A bequest of any amount will be deeply appreciated and would have an important impact in caring for the poor and needy. To leave a specific dollar amount, please state:
“I give, devise and bequeath to the Companions of St. Anthony of Ellicott City, Maryland, the amount of $____.”
Thank you for considering a bequest to the Friars as a part of your enduring legacy.
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