“Your actions in passing, pass not away, for every good work is a grain of seed for eternal life.” — St. Bernard of Clairvaux
Thank you for your interest in becoming a St. Bernard of Clairvaux Legacy Society member. The Clairvaux Legacy Society honors parishioners and friends who have chosen to support St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Church through a planned or end-of-life gift. These generous commitments help ensure the parish’s mission continues to flourish for generations to come.
A legacy gift is an expression of gratitude for God’s blessings and a lasting witness to faith, stewardship, and love for the Church.
What Is the Clairvaux Legacy Society?
The Clairvaux Legacy Society recognizes individuals and families who have included St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Church in their estate plans. Members share a common desire to support the future of the parish while prayerfully planning for their own families.
There is no minimum gift required. Membership is based on intention, not amount.
Why Legacy Giving Matters
Catholics are called to be good stewards of the gifts entrusted to them. Legacy gifts provide an opportunity to extend that stewardship beyond our lifetime by supporting:
The long-term stability of St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Church
Worship, faith formation, and parish life
Facilities and future parish needs
Outreach and service to others
Many parishioners find peace in knowing their faith and generosity will continue to shape the parish for years to come.
How to Become a Member
There are several meaningful ways to become a member of the Clairvaux Legacy Society:
1. General Legacy Gift
An unrestricted legacy gift supports the parish’s greatest needs, allowing leadership to respond to future priorities.
2. St. Bernard of Clairvaux Endowment Fund
A legacy gift to the parish endowment ensures long-term financial stability for St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Church.
3. Clairvaux Legacy Society Fund
An end-of-life gift to the Clairvaux Legacy Society Fund entrusts your generosity to a committee of fellow parishioners who prayerfully oversee the distribution of funds, guided by the Parish Finance Council.
Ways to Leave a Planned Gift
You may include St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Church in your estate plans in a variety of ways, including:
Creating or updating a will or trust
Naming St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Church as a beneficiary of a retirement account, bank account, annuity or life insurance policy
Establishing a beneficiary deed for your home, or donating your home to realize tax benefits, and continue to live rent free
Opening a charitable gift annuity through the Catholic Community Foundation, naming St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Church as a beneficiary upon your passing
Creating a named family fund at the Catholic Community Foundation and designating St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Church as a beneficiary
Our Partnership With the Catholic Community Foundation
The Catholic Community Foundation has served the Diocese of Phoenix since 1983 and helps our community live out their call to stewardship. The Foundation is a separate nonprofit organization, recognized by the Church as a canonical entity, and is entrusted with protecting and carrying out the intentions of those who give.
The Foundation has a long-standing relationship with St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Church, including support for wills and trusts education, parish campaigns, management of parish endowments, and stewardship of donor-advised funds and family foundations.
Take the Next Step
Document your legacy gift online using the form below
Clairvaux Legacy Society Dinner
Why Choose the Catholic Community Foundation?
Trusted Stewardship
With over 40 years of experience, we are a trusted partner for Catholic philanthropy, ensuring your intentions are honored.
Values-Based Investing
Your funds are managed ethically and in alignment with Catholic social teachings.
Community Impact
Your giving directly supports the growth and stability of Catholic schools, parishes, ministries, and other vital programs.