“For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.” – Matthew 6:21

On March 3rd, we will celebrate the feast of St. Katharine Drexel, whose life stands as a profound testament to the power of faith-driven generosity.  

Born into the wealthy Drexel family of Philadelphia in 1858, she was raised to see material wealth as a gift entrusted by God for the good of others. That lesson shaped her extraordinary life.

After inheriting a substantial fortune, she chose not comfort, but mission—founding the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament and dedicating her resources to building schools, churches, and missions serving Native and African American communities. Among her many accomplishments was the founding of Xavier University of Louisiana, the first and only historically Black Catholic university in the United States.

St. Katharine’s story is a powerful example of how a bequest can transform lives. She saw her wealth as a gift from God, meant to serve a greater purpose. Her example calls each of us to consider how we might use what we have been given to support the causes that align with our faith and values.

While not all of us are called to take a vow of poverty, we are all called to faithful stewardship. A gift in your will or trust — no matter the size — ensures that the faith and ministries you cherish today continue to thrive long into the future.

Partnering in Your Catholic Legacy

The Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia is here to help you create a giving plan that honors your faith and values. As we reflect on St. Katharine Drexel’s legacy, we are reminded that true wealth lies not in what we keep but in what we give. Through intentional and prayerful planning, we, too, can leave a legacy of faith, service, and love.

Planned gifts are flexible and can be updated as life circumstances change. They allow you to retain control of your assets during your lifetime, may reduce estate taxes and administrative costs, and provide peace of mind knowing your legacy reflects your deepest values. You can learn more about the benefits of including a charitable gift in your will or trust here.

And if you do not yet have a will, we encourage you to take this important step. Through our secure FreeWill partnership, you can create a legally valid will at no cost and, if you choose, include a gift to support the Catholic causes closest to your heart.

To learn more about how you can make a lasting impact, please reach out to me at 215-587-5650 or gowen@thecfgp.org.

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Garrett Owen

Chief Philanthropy Officer