It is hard to believe that it was three long years ago that a global health crisis from COVID-19 was sprung on us very quickly and without warning. Every day seemed to bring more uncertainty and we were called to do our best for ourselves and for each other, even in our gatherings for Mass and other liturgies here at Queen of All Saints.
And it was during times like these that our parish became even more important, as we sought to reach out and serve people in our communities.
Remember, we are made in the image of God, the ultimate giver of all that we are and all that we have. We look the most like God when we are generous. We reflect the face of Jesus when we compassionately and generously share what God has given us. Generous giving grows from our need to give as part of our spiritual journey, rather than the church’s need to receive. In other words, the question is not “What does my church need from me?” but rather “What is God calling me to give?”
SOME THOUGHTS AT TAX TIME
As we prepare our returns it’s good to remind ourselves of all available tax strategies. Our primary reasons for giving certainly aren’t tax-driven, but our chosen charities will benefit more if we do our homework.
If you are 70½ or older and have an IRA, you may qualify for a special charitable giving opportunity directly from your IRA. Individuals are now allowed to make direct transfers from an IRA to Queen of All Saints tax free – up to $100,000 – and also credited against your required annual minimum distribution if you have not yet taken it.
The tax-free nature of this withdrawal may have a number of other favorable benefits affecting your tax return, depending on your particular situation. Please contact our parish business office at 773-736-6060 for further information.