Talking to your parents about their will can feel uncomfortable, even intimidating. But approaching the conversation through the lens of faith, love, and legacy can transform it into something far more meaningful. For those who value the mission of Catholic Charities of New York, protecting the vulnerable, serving those in need, and upholding human dignity, this conversation is not just about finances. It’s about stewardship, family, and continuing a life of service.
Why This Conversation Matters
Too many families wait until it’s too late to talk about end-of-life wishes or estate planning. Without clear guidance, loved ones may face confusion or even conflict. A will is a powerful tool, not just to distribute assets, but to share values, provide peace of mind, and build a legacy of love and service.
Catholic Charities of New York sees this every day: Families struggling through grief and uncertainty could have been spared heartache with a thoughtful plan in place.
Framing the Conversation with Faith
When speaking to your parents about their will, frame the discussion around what matters most: family, faith, and legacy.
Instead of starting with, “Do you have a will?” consider asking:
- “Have you thought about how you’d like your values to live on?”
- “Would you be open to talking about your wishes, so we can carry them out faithfully when the time comes?”
- “Have you ever thought about including causes you care about in your legacy?”
These questions honor their dignity and invite a spiritual reflection, not just a legal one.
Tying Stewardship to Service
The Catholic faith teaches us that all we have, our time, talent, and treasure, is entrusted to us by God. Planning a will is an act of stewardship. It gives your parents the opportunity to:
- Protect their family
- Express their faith and values
- Support organizations that reflect their beliefs
If your parents have been lifelong supporters of Catholic’s mission or have benefited from Catholic Charities’ services, they may be comforted to know that planned giving can continue that impact far beyond their lifetime.
How Catholic Charities of New York Carries Forward a Legacy of Love
Including Catholic Charities of New York in a will ensures that the mission of mercy continues for generations. Planned gifts help provide:
- Early intervention, special education, and disability services
- Legal aid and shelter for migrants and refugees
- Meals for the hungry and dignity for the homeless
- Supportive housing for seniors, veterans, and people in crisis
These are not just services, they are acts of love made possible by the generosity of donors, including those who gave through their wills.
Simple Ways to Leave a Faith-Filled Legacy
If your parents are open to planned giving, it doesn’t have to be complicated. Options include:
- A bequest in a will or trust
- Naming Catholic Charities of New York as a beneficiary on a retirement account or life insurance policy
- Charitable Gift Annuities that provide lifetime income and a gift to charity
Catholic Charities of New York offers tools and guidance to make the process easy and meaningful, including online platforms and personal support.
Tips for a Graceful Conversation
- Be patient – This may take more than one conversation.
- Listen first – Understand their concerns, fears, or questions.
- Use stories – Share how others have found peace in planning their legacy.
- Offer help, not pressure – Suggest they talk to a trusted advisor or attorney.
- Pray – Ask God to guide the conversation with love and clarity.
Continue the Conversation with Support
If your family is ready to explore these options, Catholic Charities of New York is here to help. We can be a guide to discussing your parents’ will. Please visit catholiccharitiesny.org/plannedgiving to learn more or speak directly with a member of our team.
Emily Chau
Senior Director, Development and Planned Giving
646-794-2018
Emily.Chau@CatholicCharitiesNY.org
Talking to your parents about their will is ultimately an act of care. Through faith and open dialogue, you can help them protect what matters most and create a lasting legacy rooted in compassion, dignity, and service to others. Their legacy can be one of love that never stops giving.
