A Catholic’s guide to Will preparation, powers of attorney, funeral and burial instructions, and cemetery selections
An important part of your estate planning is making decisions about your final burial arrangements. Pre-planning relieves your family of the emotional burden of making stressful decisions at an emotional time.
“When we dare to ask this question along with the Psalmist, we know that no return we make will ever be sufficient. Yet, as Christian stewards, we hear in our hearts the call to gratefully account for the gifts we have been given, cultivate these gifts with care and love, share them in generosity with those in need, and return them with increase to the Lord.
As you undertake the process of planning your estate, I pray that you will be open to the Spirit’s voice in your heart. As followers of Jesus Christ, we know that death has no power over us. As you plan to arrange your affairs and prepare yourself for God’s call, may the peace of Christ, which is beyond all understanding, make you assured in the steady hope of the life to come.”
Sincerely yours in Christ and Mary Immaculate,
(Most Rev.) Douglas Crosby, OMI
Bishop of Hamilton
Make your dedication and commitment to your Catholic faith known in your passing. Use our Estate Planning Guide to ensure your wishes are known and plans are carried out.
Many people postpone making a Will until faced with an overseas trip or an unexpected illness. There are many reasons that a Will should be made earlier and revised regularly as part of your personal and financial plan.
If you die in Ontario without a Will, provincial laws designate who will receive your assets and the amount of inheritance. This distribution of assets may not necessarily coincide with your wishes.
By preparing a Will, you can choose your beneficiaries, establish Trusts and determine at what age your children or beneficiaries will receive their inheritance, and make charitable bequests to your Parish, the Diocese, or other charities or institutions that have always been important to you.
Lord, teach me to be generous. Teach me to serve as you deserve; to give and not to count the cost, to fight and not to heed the wounds, to toil and not to seek for rest, to labour and not to ask for reward, save that of knowing that I do your will.
Some give freely, yet grow all the ritcher; others withhold what is due, and only suffer want.
Planning for the future is an act of love and stewardship. Our Will and Estate Planning Guide is designed to align with Catholic values, helping you manage your legacy while honouring God’s teachings. This guide ensures your wishes reflect your faith, provide for your loved ones and support charitable causes close to your heart. With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll gain peace of mind knowing your assets are distributed ethically and responsibly. Planning your Will and estate today will help ease the burden on your family during difficult times. Embrace this opportunity to live your faith fully through thoughtful, purposeful preparation for eternity.
You can give to your parish or diocese in many ways through your Will. Leave a legacy and help the church’s mission.
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