Honoring Whom You Have Become: Father Patrick Beidelman Benefits the School That Helped Shape Him

As a priest for the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, Father Patrick Beidelman is often called upon to talk to people who are thinking about the meaning of their lives and how to leave a lasting legacy. About five years ago, he realized that he should also "practice what he preached." He had reached a point in his life as a priest where he felt he was more financially stable and able to consider planned giving.

"I recently was involved when my own parents were making their estate plan and it got me thinking about the people and places that have helped me become who I am today," says Father Pat. "Cathedral is definitely one of those places."

Lifelong Connections

Father Pat is a 1990 graduate of Cathedral High School and has served on the school's Board of Directors since 2000. But his lifelong connection with Cathedral runs even deeper. "My father, my uncles, my twin brother and my two older brothers are alumni also," he says. "My nephew graduated in the class of 2012 and this year, my twin nieces are freshmen at Cathedral."

More important, Cathedral gave Father Pat a connection to his vocation. "Cathedral was the place that allowed me to explore my spirituality, to expand intellectually and grow socially. As an active participant in the theater department, Cathedral helped me learn how to connect with an audience and communicate ideas. Cathedral was where I was able to begin to develop the gifts that God gave me. Being able to give back through planned giving is very important to me."

Being on the Board of Directors at Cathedral, Father Pat knows the value of unrestricted gifts. "Though I certainly feel an affinity for the theater program, I trust the leadership of the school to determine the right place for my gift when the time comes. I feel comfortable knowing that funds will be allocated to where they are most needed."

Giving the Gift of the Future

Father Pat believes his relationships with Cathedral classmates, faculty and staff all have been instruments of God's presence in his life. Leaving a legacy to the school through planned giving is one way for him to honor a special place in his life. "I've received more from Cathedral than I'll ever be able to give back," he says.

If you are interested in more information, please contact Abbe Ernstes at aernstes@gocathedral.com or (317) 968-7348.