In the Gospels, Jesus often taught through parables. They are stories that revealed eternal truths through everyday moments. Among His most powerful themes was generosity: giving not only from our abundance, but from our hearts. The widow’s mite, the Good Samaritan, the rich young ruler, each story challenges us to see charity, like Catholic Charities of New York, not as an obligation, but as a sacred calling.

For Catholic Charities of New York, this calling is lived out daily. Every meal served, shelter provided, immigrant assisted, or family stabilized is a modern echo of those ancient teachings. And through planned giving, faithful Catholics have the opportunity to participate in these acts of mercy, not just now, but far into the future.

The Widow’s Mite: Giving from the Heart

“Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all the others.” — Luke 21:3

The widow’s small offering was a profound act of faith. She gave not out of excess, but out of trust in God. Planned giving allows you to follow this example, by including charities, like Catholic Charities of New York in your will or estate plan, you’re making a declaration that your faith and values endure beyond your lifetime. Whether large or modest, your gift becomes a vital act of love and trust in God’s work through the mission of Catholic Charities of New York.

The Good Samaritan: Compassion Across Boundaries

“Go and do likewise.” — Luke 10:37

The Good Samaritan didn’t just see the suffering man on the road, he acted. He gave his time, resources, and care to a stranger. In today’s complex world, Catholic Charities of New York continues this legacy, reaching across neighborhoods and cultures to assist over 400,000 individuals each year. Planned giving ensures that this ministry of compassion continues long after we’re gone, serving others as Christ would.

The Rich Young Ruler: Choosing What Lasts

“Sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven.” — Mark 10:21

The young man walked away sad, not because he was evil, but because he was attached to temporary things. Planned giving is a chance to invest in something lasting: the dignity of others. Naming Catholic Charities of New York as a beneficiary of your IRA, trust, or life insurance policy is a way to transform temporal resources into eternal impact.

Your Legacy, Rooted in Scripture and Service

Through Catholic Charities of New York’s planned giving program, your faith can continue to bear fruit in concrete ways:

• Bequests and Wills: Include Catholic Charities of New York in your estate and leave a lasting legacy of service.
• Charitable Gift Annuities: Support vital ministries while receiving fixed payments for life.
• Beneficiary Designations: Name Catholic Charities on retirement or insurance accounts with a simple beneficiary form.
• Free Online Tools: Get started easily with resources like FreeWill and MyCatholicWill, linked on our website.

Each of these options is a modern expression of biblical charity, meaning faith in action, compassion with foresight, generosity with eternal vision.

“Well done, good and faithful servant…” — Matthew 25:23

When we give with intentionality, we reflect the love of Christ.  Planned giving is not only a financial decision but also a spiritual one. It says: I believe in mercy that outlives me.  I believe in a Church that cares for the least among us. And I believe that my life, and my legacy, can point others toward the Kingdom of God.

By choosing to include Catholic Charities of New York in your plans, you become part of a story far bigger than any one of us: the story of hope, healing, and compassion that Christ began, and that we continue, one act of charity at a time.

To learn more, please visit CatholicCharitiesNY.GiftPlans.org or contact Emily Chau, Director of Planned Giving, at Emily.Chau@CatholicCharitiesNY.org or 646‑794‑2018.