:: Supporting Your Parish
If you choose to support your parish church, we suggest that gifts are not restricted in the will, as needs and projects do change over time.
If you prefer the PCC to use part or all of the gift for some particular purpose in the church, you might like to write a non-binding letter to your executors setting out your wishes, and store it with the will. The PCC will then consider their request in discussion with your executors, and will do their best to meet your wishes in the light of the church's circumstances after your death.  

 

:: Wording 
Your solicitor may find our suggested wording and notes on leaving gifts to the Church helpful. 

 

Different Ways of Supporting the Church

Whilst many people who leave a gift to the Church in their will choose to support their local Parish Church, there are several alternatives.

Regionally via the Diocese

Leaving a gift to the Church at the Diocesan level is a way of supporting the Church of England in the region that you live. Every Diocese has at least one part of its organisation which is a registered charity. Click here for a list of Diocesan charitable organisations.

Nationally through the Church and Community Fund  (formerly known as the Central Church Fund).

The CCF supports the Church of England's mission by awarding grants to community projects run by parish churches, deaneries, dioceses and occasionally other regional or national bodies. Projects supported by the CCF must seek to strengthen the relationship between the church and the community and show imagination in responding to need. 

Typical CCF-funded projects might include employing a youth worker, offering emergency food and clothing to refugees, renovating an old hall for use as a community centre, providing skills training for the homeless in a church room, helping children to stage a medieval mystery play and much more. 

Giving through the CCF is an excellent way to reach worthwhile church and community projects run by parishes throughout the country. These projects have a lasting impact, helping the whole Church of England as well as individuals and communities in need from all backgrounds.  Click here to find out more.

To National or International Mission or Development organisations 

There are several Church of England charitable mission organisations who would be delighted to receive support from legacies. To discover more about the Partnership for World Mission, and the eleven agencies that make up this partnership, click here to visit the PWM website.