Catholic Extension Society recognizes that rural churches play a vital role in their communities.
In partnership with Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana, Catholic Extension Society is seeking applications from dioceses that seek to equip rural parishes with tools and support to implement Legacy Sunday.
Through this special initiative, we hope to help rural churches build their capacity to serve more people, promote financial sustainability and the long-term economic health of their respective rural faith communities.
What is Legacy Sunday?
Legacy Sunday is a parish-led program where church leaders invite parishioners to consider leaving the parish (or the Foundation for the parish) in their Legacy Plans. This program is a way to engage in planned giving.
The program encourages all parishioners to reflect on how much the Church and God has done for them, to make a conscious decision about how much they would want to give back to the Church when they pass on.
What’s in it for the parish?
Legacy gifts for THEM, which therefore makes a stronger diocese.
What is the diocesan commitment?
1. With the blessing of your Bishop, your diocese will select 1 weekend in which you will implement Legacy Sunday.
2. You will select up to 10 rural parishes.
3. Meet with mentor Amy Ponson, Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana monthly (and/or bi-weekly as it gets closer) via zoom to be guided and mentored through the process.
4. Lead with enthusiasm and positivity.
What will be provided to each approved diocese:
1. Mentorship and coaching by a specialized team to implement Legacy Sunday in your selected rural parishes.
2. All of the Legacy Sunday materials that can be edited with your branding – Bulletin inserts, posters, brochures, web content, letters for pastors, social media content, in pew materials and pledge card, etc.
3. $8,000 from Catholic Extension to offset any costs of printing for your parishes.
4. Guidance to define the timeline for your launch.
TO APPLY:
· Must be a Catholic Extension Society supported dioceses. See map of eligible dioceses here: Where We Help – Catholic Extension Society
· Fill out the online application here: Online application
· Must include Bishop’s Endorsement Letter with application
· Deadline to apply March 27, 2026
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact Tom Riordan, Vice President of Mission Partnerships, at 831-320-3571 or [email protected] or Odette Barrientos, Director of Mission Programs, at [email protected]