This article explains how to formalise a bequest to the Anglican Church, provides suggested wording for wills, and outlines the role of the Synod as trustee.
To formalise a bequest, it must be documented in a will. This should be done in consultation with a legaladviser or trustee company, as the Church cannot offer legal advice. Wills do not need to be lengthy, but they must be clear.
In the Anglican Church, The Synod of the Diocese of Adelaide of the Anglican Church of AustraliaIncorporated (the Synod) is the legal entity in which all property and finances are vested. Therefore, the Synod should be named, along with specific instructions for the intended use of the bequest.
The following suggested bequest wording is provided to assist people who wish to leave a gift to the Anglican Church in their will.
I give and bequeath [description of gift, e.g. specific amount, percentage of estate, or balance of estate] to The Synod of the Diocese of Adelaide of the Anglican Church of Australia Incorporated:
OR
If this gift cannot take effect for any reason, then for the use and benefit of such congregation,foundation, institution, council, committee, department, college, board, or agency of the Anglican Church as The Synod of the Diocese of Adelaide considers most closely fulfils the charitable purpose intended.
A bequest may be made directly to the Synod or for the benefit of a particular parish or agency. In thelatter case, the Synod acts as a trustee and is responsible for ensuring that the donor’s wishes arecarried out. To manage this responsibility, the Diocese has formal procedures outlined in the Bequest Policy.
