In gratitude for a legacy left to church

Many churches are left a legacy from time to time. Many of these parishes have found it sensible to use at least part of these unbudgeted and expected sums to carry out some specific project in the church in memory of the person who left the money, perhaps putting the balance (if there is one) into reserves.

It is good practice to acknowledge the gift and to publicise how the legacy is to be used in the parish. The following is an article which could be adapted for use in a parish magazine or notice sheet for this purpose.

‘Mrs Joan Smith’

Many of us remember with affection ‘Joan Smith’ who died recently. We are most grateful that she remembered St … in her will, leaving us (amount) to be used for (purpose). We thank God for her life and for this generosity.

We intend to use this unexpected sum to (repaint the chancel or produce a new notice board, etc?) in her memory and the remainder will be put into our reserves to be used at some time in the future.

If anyone is considering leaving a legacy to the church, you may like to speak to (Parish Giving Director/Treasurer?) who could give you advice on how best to word your will most appropriately.

For more advice on legacies to churches, please contact Nick Hutton at Church House Rotherham on 01709 309151.

Nick Hutton
September 2007