Planned Giving

One gift,
a legacy forever

The Catholic Church’s intellectual tradition has been sustained and developed over centuries thanks to the generosity of her sons and daughters. Based at the University of Chicago, the Lumen Christi Institute is a national leader in bringing the riches of this tradition to academic communities. One way to secure the future of our work is by making a planned gift to the Institute. 

Choose the planned gift that is right for you:

Bequests

Bequests are the simplest way to support the Lumen Christi Institute through your will. You may designate your bequest to support a specific program, or you may leave its use unrestricted so that it is allocated to the area of greatest need.

Below are examples of some language you can use to make a bequest:

“I give and bequeath the sum of ______ dollars US ($ _______ ) to the Lumen Christi Institute, Chicago, Illinois.”

“I give to the Lumen Christi Institute, Chicago, Illinois; all of my right, title, and interest in (insert property).”

“I give, devise, and bequeath the residue of my estate, real and personal, as follows: A percent (%) thereof shall be distributed absolutely to Lumen Christi Institute, Chicago, Illinois.”

Don't Have a Will?

The Lumen Christi Institute has partnered with MyCatholicWill to offer you a simple, free tool to protect your family and your legacy. You are welcome to use the service whether or not you choose to leave Lumen Christi an estate gift. To learn more, visit mycatholicwill.com/lumenchristi.

Charitable Gift Annuity

A charitable gift annuity (CGA) is a solution for those who have a heart to give but desire a source of ongoing income. CGAs provide fixed payments for life at rates generally higher than certificates of deposit (CDs), and a portion of your payments are often tax-free.

To inquire, visit lumenchristi.org/CGA.

Charitable Remainder Trusts

A charitable remainder trust may provide you with income and immediate tax relief while securing Lumen Christi’s future. They offer greater flexibility than a charitable gift annuity.

Named Beneficiary

Naming the Lumen Christi Institute as a beneficiary on life insurance policies or retirement accounts is an easy, tax efficient way to support our work for years to come.

Recognition

Lumen Christi benefactors who communicate their intention to support the Institute through a planned gift are inducted into our Legacy Society. 

 Note that all of these gifts come with different, and often substantial, tax benefits. Please speak with your financial advisor to determine which gift is right for you. 

Please contact info@lumenchristi.org or call the Lumen Christi Institute at 773.955.5887 if you would like more information, wish to discuss making a planned gift that benefits both you and the Lumen Christi Institute, or have already included the Lumen Christi Institute in your estate plans.