Beloved Brothers & Sisters,

Before I entered the Holy Priesthood, I worked as a funeral director, where I learned the valuable lesson of preparation. I served many families who were able to move forward with peace, despite their grief, because everything had been thoughtfully arranged. I also saw families overwhelmed by unanswered questions, adding to their stress and heavy burden. 

Planning for the end of life is something that many people prefer to put off, but it is one of the most practical and caring steps you can take for your loved ones. This August is National Make-A-Will Month, and I am inviting all alumni, clergy, and faithful to take a step towards preparedness and create an estate plan today.

• Protect the assets and valuables that matter most to you
• Steward your God-given blessings
• Gain peace of mind knowing that you’ve taken care of an essential task

Preparing a will is an act of love and humility—something we are called upon to do as Orthodox Christians. To make this step simple, St. Tikhon’s has partnered with FreeWill to offer a free and accessible resource to help you create a will.

Not only does it help you with that first step of planning ahead, it also encourages thoughtful reflection on how you can continue to support the Church beyond your lifetime. I urge you to consider St. Tikhon’s Seminary as a beneficiary and to be a part of the formation of future clergy and lay leadership. 

May our seminary's work continue, for the life of the world and its salvation.

Yours in Christ,
Priest Kirill Zawatski
STOTS Class of 2024

P.S. Already included St. Tikhon's in your will or estate plan? Please fill out this form so we can personally thank you and welcome you to the St. Tikhon's Seminary Legacy Society.

Already a member of our Legacy Society? We invite you to invite others who share a passion for higher education this month!