Leading with Love, This Month and Always

Every day, the Episcopal Diocese of Chicago seeks to lead with love — in worship, in service, and in communities across northern Illinois. Lives are touched because supporters like you respond so generously to God’s love in the world.

Thank you for being part of that work.

August is National Make-A-Will Month — a gentle invitation to reflect on the gifts entrusted to us and to put a plan in place for the people and values you love.

Our Book of Common Prayer (p. 445) directs the Church to encourage all people “to make wills, while they are in health,” providing for their families and remembering, as they are able, the ministries that have shaped their faith.

To help, the diocese offers free access to Giving Docs, a simple, secure way to create or update your will and other essential planning documents online.

Start your will for free today.

Whether you’re starting fresh or reviewing a plan you already have, Make-A-Will Month is your opportunity to:

• Provide for your family and the friends you love
• Make your wishes clear through your healthcare directive and power of attorney
• Remember, as you are able, your own congregation, the diocese, or another charity that has shaped your life
• Pass on more than possessions — the values, faith, and stories that have shaped your life

For people of faith, a will is more than a legal or financial task. It is an act of stewardship and an act of love — a grateful response to all that we are and all that we have, and a way to care for the people God has given us long into the future.

A will’s first work is providing for the people you love — your family and the friends who have walked through life with you. Many members also choose, as they are able, to remember their own congregation, the diocese, or another charity close to their heart. Every such gift is entirely optional, and every one helps sustain worship, service, formation, and outreach for generations to come.

One important note: your documents take effect only once they’re printed, signed, and witnessed as your state requires — the site walks you through those final steps. We hope you’ll begin this month. It takes only a few minutes to start, and the clarity and peace of mind will last far longer.

Faithfully,

Canon T.J. Houlihan
Canon for Development
The Episcopal Diocese of Chicago
312.751.6725