On October 8, more than 100 parishioners from four local parishes gathered at St. John the Evangelist Church to attend a Will and Estate Planning Seminar focused on helping families reduce the taxes owed on their estates through strategic planning.
Attendees gave the event high praise, particularly valuing the expert insights and practical advice—many of which were new to them.
One key takeaway from the evening was the importance of intentional giving. Participants learned that, ultimately, a person’s estate can benefit two of three potential beneficiaries: their family, a favourite charity, or Revenue Canada. By choosing to include a charitable gift—such as to their parish—in their will, individuals can significantly reduce the taxes owed by their estate.
The seminar was hosted by the Catholic Archdiocese of Edmonton and featured two experienced professionals: John Kok, a financial planner with over 40 years of experience, and Daylen Lafleur, a wills and estates lawyer with Main Street Law.
If you missed this session, another complimentary Will and Estate Planning Seminar will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM at St. Thomas More Parish.
For more information, please contact:
Lisa Robichaud
Stewardship and Fund Development Lead
Lisa.Robichaud@caedm.ca