Why Whole Life Insurance from a Fraternal Society is the Smart Choice for Professionals Aged 25-50

In today’s complex financial landscape, whole life insurance is not just a tool for protecting your loved ones after you’re gone—it’s a cornerstone of long-term wealth building and financial planning.

For young professionals between the ages of 25 and 50, finding the right life insurance policy can be challenging, especially with the flood of options from large insurance companies. However, many are discovering that whole life insurance from a fraternal society offers the perfect blend of coverage, affordability, and long-term financial benefits.

In this article, we will delve into the advantages of whole life insurance, how it compares to other policies, and why fraternal societies may be the best option for professionals seeking both financial protection and investment growth. Plus, we’ll explore the living benefits that make whole life insurance an even smarter investment for today’s younger consumers.

What Is Whole Life Insurance?

Whole life insurance is a type of permanent life insurance that covers you for your entire life as long as premiums are paid. Unlike term life insurance, which provides coverage only for a specific time period, whole life guarantees a death benefit to your beneficiaries, no matter when you pass away. Additionally, it includes a cash value component that grows over time, providing you with both protection and an opportunity to build wealth.

Why Large Insurance Companies Might Not Be the Best Fit

While major, well-established insurance companies offer a wide range of products and automated services, they may not always be the best choice for young professionals. Here are some reasons why:

1. Impersonal Service

Big insurance companies often have an impersonal customer service experience, which can leave you feeling like just another policyholder. With a fraternal society, however, you can expect more personalized attention and support tailored to your individual financial needs.

2. Higher Premiums and Fees

Corporate insurance companies are typically for-profit organizations, which means they have higher overhead costs that can be passed on to customers in the form of higher premiums. In contrast, fraternal societies are nonprofit organizations, which often means more affordable whole life insurance premiums for members.

3. Limited Flexibility

Large insurers often use a rigid, cookie-cutter approach to life insurance. Fraternal societies, on the other hand, can offer more customized coverage options and flexible terms based on your unique financial situation, career stage, and goals.

Key Benefits of Whole Life Insurance

1. Lifetime Coverage with a Fixed Premium

One of the standout features of whole life insurance is that it provides permanent coverage. You don’t have to worry about expiring coverage or increasing premiums as you age, making it a more stable long-term investment compared to other policies. The fixed premiums ensure that your payments remain predictable, which is ideal for professionals who need budgeting certainty.

2. Cash Value Accumulation

A major advantage of whole life insurance is the cash value it builds over time. As you pay your premiums, a portion of them goes into an interest-bearing account that grows tax-deferred. This means your policy not only provides a death benefit but also acts as a savings or investment vehicle. You can borrow against the cash value for emergencies or life milestones, or even use it as a supplemental retirement income.

3. Dividends (For Some Policies)

Many fraternal societies and mutual insurers offer dividend-paying whole life insurance policies. These dividends are not guaranteed, but when paid, they can be used to increase your policy’s cash value, reduce your premiums, or be taken as cash. Over the years, these dividends can significantly increase the value of your policy.

Why Whole Life Insurance from a Fraternal Society is a Game Changer

1. Affordable and Flexible Coverage

Fraternal organizations operate on a nonprofit basis, which means they don’t have the profit-driven agenda of large corporations. This can translate into more affordable premiums and more flexible coverage options. For young professionals, this is a significant benefit—affordable premiums with the ability to modify coverage based on your changing financial situation.

2. Community and Support

Being a member of a fraternal society means you’re not just buying insurance; you’re becoming part of a community. Many societies offer member benefits like financial education, wellness programs, and even networking opportunities. This sense of community support can make a huge difference, especially when you need financial guidance.

3. Dividend-Eligible Policies

Fraternal life insurance policies are often dividend-paying, which allows policyholders to benefit from the society’s financial performance. This can further reduce premiums or enhance your policy’s cash value, making the policy even more of a long-term investment.

Living Benefits: A Key Advantage for Younger Consumers

In today’s market, living benefits are becoming increasingly important for younger life insurance buyers. These benefits allow you to access a portion of your policy’s death benefit while you’re still alive, offering additional financial security and flexibility in the event of unexpected circumstances. Here’s why living benefits are a game-changer:

1. Critical Illness Coverage

Many whole life insurance policies from fraternal societies include critical illness riders, which provide access to your death benefit if you’re diagnosed with a serious illness, like cancer, heart attack, or stroke. This can be crucial for young professionals, as it helps cover medical expenses and lost income during a period of illness.

2. Chronic Illness and Long-Term Care

If you become chronically ill or require long-term care, a chronic illness rider can give you access to your policy’s death benefit. This is a huge advantage for younger consumers who may not yet be thinking about needing long-term care but want to ensure they have financial options if the need arises.

3. Wealth Accumulation

Whole life policies offer cash value accumulation that grows tax-deferred over time. For professionals in their 30s and 40s, this means that you can start building wealth now while ensuring financial security for the future. Additionally, living benefits allow you to leverage the cash value for investments or other financial needs without needing to access traditional retirement accounts.

Why Whole Life Insurance is a Smart Investment for Professionals

For young professionals, whole life insurance from a fraternal society offers the perfect blend of financial protection, wealth-building opportunities, and investment growth. Here’s why it makes sense:

• Permanent Coverage ensures that your family and loved ones are protected, no matter when you pass away.

• Cash Value grows over time, providing you with a financial asset that can be leveraged during your lifetime.

• Affordable Premiums and dividends from fraternal organizations make it a cost-effective long-term strategy.

• Living Benefits provide immediate access to funds during illness or other life challenges, giving you flexibility in managing your health and finances.

By choosing whole life insurance from our fraternal society, you not only secure your future but also benefit from our community-centered approach to insurance.

The Smart Choice for the Modern Professional

For today’s professionals, whole life insurance from a fraternal society is more than just a safety net—it’s a strategic investment in both financial protection and wealth-building. With the right policy, you’ll have lifetime coverage, cash value accumulation, dividends, and living benefits that give you financial security today and for the years to come. If you’re between 25 and 50 and looking to make a smart financial move, consider exploring the benefits of joining a fraternal society and securing whole life insurance that works for you.

Check out some Whole Life insurance Options we offer below, or contact us to talk to someone directly.

Traditional


20 – Pay


Single Premium

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Everything happens according to God’s plan.  As in our lives, also in Jesus’.  My son asked the question: WHY did God send His Son to suffer and die? This led me further to ask why God sent His Son to be like us, to live a human life with a heart – that feels pain, a free will that causes doubt, and all the challenges that we humans face, like loss, jealousy, addictions and sicknesses. 

As any good mother I told him a story explaining that just as any father, God is trying to raise good children.

A Story of The Father

At the beginning there was God. He created the angels. They had immeasurable power and strengths, and everything in excess. The angels had certain responsibilities in the Kingdom of God, but they had fun most of the time.  God was their Almighty Creator, so the only thing the angels could not have, was His glory.  And we all know the story of Lucifer, the most beautiful angel, who decided he was just as good as God, and that he should have glory. But as any good father, God said, “I gave you everything, and I can take it away.” And so He did. And Lucifer lost all his power and his home. 

But Lucifer’s goal of glory did not die, he decided to get glory by ruining everything God creates. 

So, as any good father, God tried again but after learning a valuable lesson from the Angels’ actions, He created humans, in His likeness, with a free will. They still had everything in excess – living a fun life with everything that brings joy.  Since God did not want His children to loose what they had, He decided to give them some boundaries. It was actually only one boundary, one tree – to stay away from it.  They lived and loved their life – not paying attention to that tree until the serpent tempted Eve with the one thing they didn’t have.  

But what could the serpent temp them with, when they had everything already, and loved their lives. Lucifer, as a serpent, shared his own insecurity with Eve, and told her that “Eating from the tree of knowledge will give you God’s power and glory.” He didn’t tell her that eating the apple will for sure ban then to being serpents like he was.  

As good children, they should have just prayed and talked to God. He would have explained. 

So Satan ruined what God created simply by whispering into Eve’s ear.  Unfortunately, Adam ignored his intuition, and followed Eve. And they lost their homes and God’s graces.

Still, God didn’t give up.

He hoped that His children would be good, like the children he imagined. He hoped they would repent and find the faith they had before the serpent confused them.  This time he gave them ten rules.  If they followed those basic rules, they would live good and happy lives. Unfortunately, their free will led them into different directions. They worshiped idols, lied and killed. In general, families were not strong and God’s children were not living the way He intended. He tried teaching them through messengers and influencers, who were chosen because of their faith in Him, even when their lives were filled with uncertainty.  

But isn’t that what true faith is – believing that all is going to God divine plan, even when it hurts. 

Still they didn’t listen. So as any good father, God tried negative reinforcement with floods and cities burning, but His children put their faith in other things, and did not trust His word, even when he spoke to them.  Time past, and they suffered and sinned.   After many centuries of good prophets spreading the word of a savor, God the Father sent a baby, born in a manger, not in a palace. 

It is possible, God realized the discipline issue was due to him not being “fully present” in His children’s life.  So he chose to be present through Jesus.  Jesus was sent to be our brother and friend. Someone we could find commonalities with, since we are not God, but just humans kicked out of paradise.  He was like us, our example, because he was fully capable of pure faith and love, just as God wants for all of us. 

In an effort to correct any past mistakes, God decided that family might be the missing factor in raising good children.  Joseph and Mary were chosen because of their faith in God – because they would raise their Son with that same faith.  Jesus was not spoiled, but he had everything he needed. As a family, they had the same troubles and pain that all families have, but they never lost faith in God’s plan.  Their faith guided their intuition during their life which was filled with the same challenges and joys as all humans. But Jesus was special because of his faith – as everyone, who’s life was touched by miracles, was because of their faith.  

The Christmas Story tells us of Jesus Birth in a stable, with his human parents, and the animals.  But he was visited by all who’s faith led them to honor the birth of their Savior.  

So what is the lesson God the Father has been trying to teach us, His children, since the beginning?  

To Have faith in HIM. 

He is what gives us life, what makes our life worth living, and the reason we exist.  He is our success, our joy, and our luck. If we consider Jesus’ life as an example for our own, we will always have enough, and in gratitude will continue to live in God’s graces.  

Although we must be ready to fight temptation, and be willing to sacrifice what we love – it doesn’t necessarily mean we will have to do so. Instead, we must be willing to go the narrow road, and let ourselves be guided and led to do what God has planned for us. 

Jesus is God’s Son, but again, we are ALL God’s children. And as Jesus did, so must we, in all situations – happy, sad, confused and lost – we must thank the Father for His blessings and his guidance, and follow our intuition of what to do next.  But whatever we do, it must be done with love and light.

Jesus is the light of this world, and this year, 2022, it must shine extra brightly, to fill all darkness in all corners of the world. 

You must spread light, fight temptations and evil, live and do everything with love – without fear or doubt, because then you will be doing God’s will. 

And as any good father, He always wants the best for his His children. 

From everyone at the Providence Association of Ukrainian Catholics, we wish you a Merry and Bright Christmas!

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Thanksgiving 2020 is upon us.  I don’t know about others, but I clearly remember being thankful in many, many moments this year. 

So today, will be the day to remind myself of each and every little miracle that happened.  Let me start by quoting the final note from the 2019 Thanksgiving Article:

“Finally, Remember to Thank God for His good blessings and the future, which will only bring new things to be grateful for.”

Let’s take a moment to remember Holodomor of 1932-33 in Ukraine.  The people who lived during this time experienced terror and loss beyond anything we can comprehend:  the darkness that surrounded them, the prayers unanswered. Today we must feel the great blessing to be living in this time.  Most of us have never experienced a real war, or serious losses of freedom – we are that generation that lived mostly in a place of peace and opportunity grow.

Now is the time, more than ever, to love and respect one another.  Listen to other opinions without judging the values of the person. Take an extra step voluntarily to do good deeds – even if that good deed looks differently today than it did last year.

This Thursday, as you sit at the table and say what you are thankful for, imagine the day we no longer have to wear masks, worry about our health, and hear or read negativity about others.  Imagine that next year, we will be grateful for the miraculous unity, love, and understanding that took place in 2021.

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It has been a crazy few weeks, with a lot of different emotions and information floating around the world.  Covid-19 has affected the human race. It has affected families involved, as well as those who are trying to avoid it.  It has led to a time in life most of us have never experienced. 

Today, all that is asked of the public is to stay home, keep a distance, and wash hands to avoid spreading the virus. Simple enough.

So, we teach our children and learn new math; we cook together as families. We bite our tongues to avoid an argument; we talk more. We play board games, organize closets, clean up back yards; since obviously we are spending more time back there.

Is it fear that is keeping us isolated, or is it respect for each other, and those who put themselves at risk to keep all our basic human needs intact.  

We don’t actually live in fear, we feel safe at home.

We thank everyone who has a hand in providing our basic necessities during this time; for continuing to put yourselves in danger, while most of us are safe at home. 

The unknowns outnumber anything we have ever dealt with.  How can there be a bright side to Covid 19?

Bright Side – External

Our basic necessities include food, water, electricity, the internet; the ability to call an ambulance and be treated at the hospital if anything happens. On social media, there are many posts naming the grocery store workers, truck drivers, technicians, and healthcare professionals as the most important factors in our lives. In many ways they have always been, but we just didn’t realize their worth until now.  

But along with these courageous people on the front lines, many companies and wealthy individuals are helping in ways they can. Some want to come up with anti viral medications to protect people in the future by donating millions to research. While others are cutting their own income to pay their employees while on quarantine. Many are donating money to help with food for communities, or providing necessary supplies to hospitals. 

Companies who may have not been considered essential a month ago have transformed their factories to produce masks, hospital gowns and even ventilators.  There are Fashion Designers researching fabrics and sewing masks.

Honeywell are making masks. Dyson was making ventilators. Ford is making clear shields and helping 3M redesign powered air-purifying respirators. These factories, in a matter of few days, have transformed their normal tasks, which may have been focused on luxury, to produce what is necessary TODAY, for survival.

Scary Side: Just read that out loud. Items necessary today, for survival = masks, protective gear, and ventilators.

Medicine is so incredibly expensive; according to this article, even with insurance it will costs thousands of dollars for treatment if infected with Covid 19. It is mind boggling that hospitals in the U.S. do not have enough supplies for their employees, or even beds for their patients.

There are a lot of unknowns, including why did this happen and how long will it last? Is this something we will fear in the future? Will a vaccine or new medicine, protect people? Will it have scary side effects that will not be obvious for a while? These are just the general questions.

How about questions focused on our individual lives? The expenses and necessities we all have to keep up with, while enjoying our time at home. What if our parents get sick, or we get sick? If we end up in the hospital, we will not be able to see our family. We will either get better, or die, alone.

Bright Side – Personal

Lets talk about the bright side to this pandemic, because yes, it does exist. Especially on an individual, self improvement level. More than ever, we can name many things to be thankful for.

In China, and California, the air is cleaner; in Italy, dolphins are swimming in the canal; even your own homes and yards may be getting cleaner. We are getting more sleep. We are spending more time with our families, cooking more, praying more and in many ways, stressing less.

Think about what you have come to appreciate, like teachers, for example.  As everyone is home-schooling children, the efforts necessary to get our little angels to learn are obvious. In a matter of days, these teachers have come up with lesson plans, physical and online, to support us in our home efforts. Thank you teachers.

Of course appreciation has sky rocketed for all medical workers who are on the front lines, putting themselves in danger.  In that same category are the industries that support the medial field. They may not be on the front lines, but they are necessary for smooth function.

How much more do you appreciate Facebook and social media?  You may have given it up for Lent, but in the past few weeks, how many of you have used it to attend Mass? You can virtually attend not only your parish mass, but any other church, in Lviv, Zarvanytsia, Canada, or Philadelphia from the comfort of your own homes.  This in itself is a very bright side.

Facebook is also giving normal people the ability to share information – the truth from the front lines.

There are many technologies available that make our lives easier and more interesting during this time. Zoom allows us to have video meetings with classrooms, or friends and family.  Many subscription websites and streaming services are offering free trials which are longer than usual.

Learning websites for children make it possible to learn in a fun way, while also recording time and progress.  In addition to these, there are free or discounted courses on Class Central, Coursera and other education sites.

Gyms are offering free video workout sessions, there are quite a few.

Through services like Grubhub and UberEats — local restaurants are offering free or discounted delivery so they can remain open through the pandemic.

Bright Side – Spiritual – an ideal situation for Lent. 

If you read our last post on the Paschal Mystery, it was focused on fighting temptation by not giving into human desires, pride and wealth.  If there is anything obvious about this pandemic, it is that many temptations have been literally removed from our lives.  

Wealth is not an identifier – it does not protect anyone from the virus.  Pride is not a feeling any of us feel right now, unless we are still blind to the dangers of Covid-19, most of us probably feel insecure and vulnerable.  

We are very lucky that we do not feel hunger, or have to live without basic human necessities, and we must pray but also follow quarantine instructions to avoid such consequences.

Our lives and the world, in general, have literally changed in a matter of weeks. Whether it changes for better or worse, is in our hands.  So to repeat the words of Pope Francis, let’s be personally committed to and involved in “the building of a better world.”

Our open schedules are giving us that time that was needed for family, prayer and self-improvement. 

Spring is here. You have time to plant a garden… add color to the world.

We will get through this by respecting each other, and above all, trusting God. He will calm the storm. 

He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm.

Matthew 8:23-27

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Some people celebrate Lent because it brings out their inner strength; they give up alcohol, or sugar or social media.  And it truly is quite exciting to succeed at this challenge, and on Easter, celebrate that victory. But it shouldn’t be that way. 

The actual purpose behind fasting and sacrifice is to help us connect with the suffering of Jesus. We give up something we desire – a luxury, a habit, or even an excuse.  Giving up things that take up our time will open our schedule for prayer, but also to do other things that bring us closer to God. These things could be spending more time with family, or improving our health and mindset.  

In today’s time, we can’t imagine fasting in a desert for 40 days, unless it is some sort of organized retreat.  We rarely feel true hunger. We are not faced with such challenges, especially by choice. 

 

What is the hardest thing for you to do?  

Is it to admit you are wrong? Or say nothing, even if you are right.  Is it to find will power and do something you hate, or not do something you desire?  Is it forgiving someone you trusted that betrayed you? 

 

Jesus spent 40 days in the desert, fasting, praying and trusting God. 

 

Imagine the suffering Jesus would soon have to endure. No one is strong enough to be accept betrayal, bullying, crucifixion and death; all while knowing that no matter what, it WOULD happen, and that it was the plan of His Father. Jesus knew His trust in God had to be tested, just like many before him.

During these days, Jesus was tempted to follow, his God given, human will. He was tempted with hunger, territory, and human pride. His humility and trust in God did not break.

Jesus was “full of the Holy Spirit” (Luke 4:1) and when tempted by the devil, He did not have to fight on his own human strength. 

As His physical strength diminished, His will and spiritual strength flourished.  

When we believe in God and His plan for us; we pray that His hand will be with us throughout our life’s journey, and not lead us to temptation, so that we can do his will, while also having our 

 

Building a better World…

Before the internet and technology, we knew and saw less, so in a way we avoided sin. Now, we have no choice but to accept the sin around us. Is it all acceptable?

Why are innocent people dying in plane crashes caused by missiles? Or from wars that they themselves didn’t start.  Why are young mothers dying of cancer; and babies?  Why do families split up; why are children mean to other children? 

When the bulk of our happiness is from material possessions, luxuries, and our pride, it’s easy to forget about those less fortunate and the unacceptable things happening around us.  We may sweep the issues under the rug, because we can’t do anything about it.  

 

“Putting the paschal mystery at the centre of our lives means feeling compassion towards the wounds of the crucified Christ present in the many innocent victims of wars, in attacks on life, from that of the unborn to that of the elderly, and various forms of violence”. This means being personally committed to and involved in “the building of a better world”.

Pope Francis

 

During Lent, do whatever you need to do find your spiritual strength, whether that is giving up something or doing good deeds.

Most importantly, forgive, sacrifice and pray. 

Read scripture with your family to expand your minds, and create mutual conversation, which may normally be difficult.  Go to Liturgy, and pray together whenever possible. 

If you are not religious, read some poems, go to the museum, volunteer, meditate.

Fasting during the week, and feeling hunger, may not only help you find your strength and will power, it will also help you get healthier. Add in some exercise instead of watching your favorite show, or sitting in front of screen, and double the health effects.  

God gave us a free will; the choice to give into temptation and to focus on human desire, pride and wealth.  Fight these temptations for the next 40 days of Lent, to build your spiritual strength. You will become a better person.

Pope Frances asks us to be “personally committed to and involved in ‘the building of a better world.”  The first step to do this is to start with yourself. 

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What is Christmas about? It is obviously about the birth of Jesus. The small, innocent baby who came into our world, not in a sterile environment, but in a cave or stable where animals lived.  He was born to a woman who made the choice to follow God’s requests, knowing the horror her son would have to live through in his future, and even on the day of his birth.  He was born into a world, in which a wealthy king was so jealous and afraid of a better king, that he took lives of hundreds of male babies, and was allowed to.  As much as the world seems confusing and evil in many ways today, Jesus came into it when it was much worse.  With his birth, we not only received the gift of life after death, but we received a brighter world. Where good overcomes evil; where we are asked to respect our brothers and sisters, and help those in need.  Our wealth is not in territory, it is in the love that surrounds us.  

This photo floated on Facebook early in December, and although I couldn’t find the author, it has become the concept of this year’s Christmas meaning.  Just take a moment to analyze the scene: a woman walked her way through the snow to visit a loved one at the cemetery.  She does not have gifts, or flowers, or 12 Stravy.  She has a candle and her cane. The light shining from the candles is brighter than the lights from the large city in the background, filled with lots of people, music, laughter and other merry things. 

She is quietly and calmly sitting.  She is not in a hurry and she is not worried about how she looks.  She feels no anxiety about buying gifts or preparing a perfect party. She is not worried about how her children are dressed, or a disagreement with her husband, or another family member.  She is in the quiet moment, spending time with her loved one who has passed.  Is she lonely, or is she at peace?

Think about this photo, there is no right answer.

There are many people in this world who may be lonely this Christmas, and many others who are not lonely but truly overwhelmed with trying to fit todays expectations of the holiday.  Enjoy the time you have with your family, or give time to someone who has no family near.  Do not let stress overtake the true meaning and celebration of a peaceful Christmas.

Jesus was born to brighten our world, so lets take initiative and help him brighten it, and not just with our Christmas trees, but with heartfelt conversations, joyful carols and sincere prayers for our families and everyone who needs them. 

Що ми святкуємо на Різдво? Ми, очевидно, святкуємо народження Ісуса Христа. Маленька, невинна дитина, яка прийшла на наш світ, не в стерильному середовищі, а в печері чи стайні, де жили тварини. Його народила жінка, яка вирішила виконувати прохання Бога, знаючи про жах її сину доведеться пережити у своєму майбутньому і навіть у день його народження. Цей маленький Кололь народився у світі, в якому дорослий, заможний цар був настільки ревнивим і боявся, що забрав життя сотень немовлят, і це було дозволено. Наскільки світ сьогодні жахливийі і злий, Ісус ввійшов у нього, коли було набагато гірше. З його народженням ми не тільки отримали дар життя після смерті, але отримали світліший світ. Де добро перемагає зло; де ми маємо поважати наших братів і сестер і допомагати тим, хто потребує. Наше багатство не в території, а в любові, яка нас оточує.

Ця фотографія була у Facebook на початку грудня, і хоча я не могла знайти автора, вона стала концепцією цьогорічного Різдвяного значення. Одну хвилину проаналізуйте сцену: жінка пройшла шлях по снігу, щоб відвідати кохану людину на кладовищі. У неї немає ні подарунків, ні квітів, ні 12 Різдвяних Страв. У неї є свічка та її тростина. Світло, що сяє від свічок, яскравіше, ніж світло від міських вогнів на задньому плані місто наповнене безліччю людей, музики, сміху та інших веселих речей.

Вона тихо і спокійно сидить. Вона не поспішає і її не турбує те, як вона виглядає. Вона не відчуває тривоги з приводу покупки подарунків або приготування ідеальної вечірки. Її не хвилює питання, як одяганені її діти, чи незгода з чоловіком чи іншим членом сім’ї. Вона знаходиться в тиху хвилину, проводячи час з коханою людиною, яка минула. Вона самотня, чи вона в спокої?

Подумайте над цією фотографією правильної відповіді немає. У цьому світі є багато людей, які можливо самотні цього Різдва, і багато інших, які не самотні, але справді переповнені намаганням відповідати сьогоднішнім очікуванням свята. Насолоджуйтесь часом, який ви маєте зі своєю родиною, або приділяйте час тому, у кого немає сім’ї поруч.

Ісус народився, щоб прояснити наш світ, тому давайте допомогти йому, не лише з нашими ялинками, але цікавими розмовами, радісними колядками та щирими молитвами за наші сім’ї та кожного, хто їх потребує.

Sharing some links:

The post Peaceful Christmas appeared first on Providence Association - Life Insurance & Retirement Savings.

The turkey is in the oven and the house smells delicious. You have a minute to sit down, pour a glass of wine and have a read.

Thanksgiving is one day during the year that we absolutely must celebrate our blessings. We should be grateful for our families, our homes, health, wealth, and much more.  With help from Facebook friends, the Providence team and family, we came up with quite a long list. 

Freedom

The Pilgrims came to America searching for exactly this.  They began the tradition of Thanksgiving to celebrate their harvest, which was thanks to God and good soil, help from the natives, and each other’s hard work. They were also thankful for their safety and the home they built; for their new freedom to live how they choose.  Today we live in beautiful free country, therefore it is easy to forget to be grateful for all our freedoms.  Many of us are here as immigrants, who never thought this would be our fate. So let’s be grateful for endless opportunities; the ability to work and save for the future, to get an education and give one to our children. Let’s be grateful for the freedom to pray, believe and speak our minds.  

“…I’m thankful for my freedom and my family.”

Myron S.

I am thankful to God for the opportunity to be in a country so blessed by its people, resources and especially the freedom to be without fear. This holiday is the most religious of all civic holidays and the day offers us the time to reflect on how fortunate we are.

Msgr. Peter Waslo

Roots and History

Would you be the same, if your roots were different?  You may not know much about your ancestors, but you possess their traits, and their choices could have had an effect on your life today.  Your pra-pra dido may have been a kozak or sat in a soviet jail for helping the Ukrainian army.  Maybe your parents moved here with just the clothes on their backs; but built a home and community. Perhaps your situation had nothing to do with being poor and an immigrant; maybe your mother raised you and your siblings, on her own, to be amazing people, parents and activists. Perhaps, you don’t know your birth parents, (you can still figure out your roots with Ancestry.com) or you just don’t like them very much. Who are you today? You are strong, smart, and powerful in your ambitions. Be grateful for everything before you, because it is what builds you and pushes you forward. 

“I am grateful for my family and being Ukrainian American. My parents, Mychajlo and Maria Wikarczuk, embraced American traditions as soon as they emigrated to the US in 1951. Thanksgiving was a special holiday with all the traditional fixings and family gatherings and thankfulness for precious freedoms. They were proud Americans, but kept their Ukrainian traditions steadfast, and I thank them for showing me the importance of my heritage and love of country.”

Stephanie C.

“Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. I am grateful that this country – MY country embraced me and my family when we came to the USA on December 4, 1977. Andrij and I plan to live in Lviv, Ukraine once we retire but I will continue celebrating Thanksgiving.”

Eryna K.

Abilities

A broad topic as it covers not only our senses and physical abilities, but our creative abilities.  Be thankful you can use all your senses; walk, speak, play with your kids, fart even. You may have the ability to make people feel happy. You may teach, dance, write beautiful songs, or embroider works of art.  Be grateful that you can see and hear the beauty all around us, but also for the ability to create it and share it.  Some can bring people together and build powerful teams by being effective leaders and mentors. While others can bring their family together and lead them through life, to become positive aspects in the lives of others.  

“Another great honor and pleasure for me, as President of the Philly area UCCA, is to have successfully led our Eastern Pennsylvania team’s advocacy efforts in Washington, DC and in Harrisburg, PA. We have helped to create and to sustain for our homeland the bi-partisan financial, military and humanitarian relief support of the United States Congress. We assisted with having both houses of Congress and the PA Senate proclaim the Holodomor to have been a genocide and to set aside a time for the commemoration of the victims.”  

Eugene L.

If you have limited physical abilities, be grateful for patience, hope and your perseverance to continue and reach your goals. If God has blessed you with all your abilities, you should be thankful every day, and not just on Thanksgiving.

Art and Beauty

Nature is a beautiful gift given to us by God; how it all just naturally comes together, completely out of our control.  The tall mountains, old caves, ocean waves, the sky filled with stars and new things to discover. How the animals instinctively survive, as God intended. How your fury best friends know how to make you feel loved.

“I am grateful for the pure love and companionship of my greyhound Lada, who, from the first day of adoption displayed her intellectual prowess and Houdiniesque abilities.” 

Lilliana C.

Appreciate the beauty of how our lives are delicately formed, even with all the good and bad choices, God gave us the freedom to make.  The miracle of mothers, and their children born to remind them of their own grandmother.  And the mothers who are blessed with children, not of their own womb, but perfectly matched. 

“I am thankful for getting it wrong! I always knew I would be a mom. I knew I would get pregnant, gaze down at my growing belly and watch my future grow. I would someday have a child with my mom’s eyes, my dad’s smile. I am thankful for the infertility journey full of tears, injections, and grief. I am thankful for unplanned pregnancy and adoption. I am most thankful for my beautiful daughter who already has a lot of my mannerisms, amazing confidence, a phenomenal sense of humor and none of my DNA. I am thankful my plans didn’t work out, because she is better than anything I could have imagined. We were always meant to be and now the rest makes sense.”

Kelly W.

Be grateful for the people who create beauty; their profound vision lets them create beautiful art that stimulates our mind.  It’s is a painting, Ukrainian Embroidery, ethnic costumes, or a card your child brings for you.  Be grateful for artists who write music; those heartfelt songs and melodies which make us dance, remind us of the past, or of someone we lost. Let’s be grateful for everything we see and hear that makes us feel alive!

“I am grateful that I have the ability to promote the inherent beauty and richness of Ukrainian art and culture by producing and organizing art and fashion shows for nonprofits.” 

Eryna K.

Achievements

Personal achievements should be remembered, no matter how small they seem.  Everyone has them. Some people are lucky to find joy in their jobs, some don’t, but go in everyday and get it done. Small achievements are never small. They are usually the first step to becoming better, and the first step is always the hardest.  For me it will be an achievement if you read this article, and feel gratitude for the things you forgot to think about.

• Surgeons, help people live pain free, but have to constantly learn, practice, and improve.  
• Life Insurance professionals provide peace of mind to clients and prepare their families for brighter future. 
• Teachers get to know their students; become their mentors and feel joy when their students show progress. 
• Priests – our Spiritual Mentors who positively impact us and encourage growth and confidence. 
• Graduating college is an achievement in itself, but especially, if you had to get through numerous obstacles to get there. 

 “There is no greater joy for me as a professional than to know that my advice and  services have been instrumental in providing peace of mind to my clients; that I have assisted them with reaching a level of financial security and family protection that they might not otherwise have. In this process, I have enjoyed the opportunity have taught members of our community about these sorts of matters; to have given them the knowledge and resources to navigate through the financial world.  I wish All of our members nothing but the best during the approaching Holidays and Holy Days: I wish all of you Many Years of Health, Happiness, Good Fortune and the Bountiful Blessings of the Lord.“

Eugene L.

“I’m grateful that I went back and graduated from college, even though I had deaths in my family and a difficult time getting through it.” 

Mrs. B

“…To have been a part of the creation and operation of our Ukrainian American Youth Civics Club has brought me the greatest joy. The high school age young people have astounded me with their initiative, brilliance, energy, creativity and hard-work. They not only learn about government and their obligations as citizens, but also actively engage in direct, effective advocacy with our team. They organize seminars, conferences and interactive foreign policy games for our Ukrainian heritage School, to which they secured the attendance of Congresspersons, Senators, Judges, Public Policy experts, military officers, and the like. This year, two of them literally presented and taught at high-level conferences on Ukraine and on the Ukrainian American community. They are forging our community’s future.” 

Eugene L.

Technology

Although there are many negatives associated with technology, it has enriched lives around the globe.  The vast amount of information available at our fingertips is immeasurable, and the ability to turn it off is also important. Every human being has the ability to learn, communicate and share with everyone else.  A babcia, in Ukraine while her family lives in the U.S., has the ability to see them every day through Skype. She is less lonely and has a reason to keep getting up in the morning. It’s easy to forget to be grateful for this today, because we can’t imagine life before these technologies were invented.  

“…I would probably say that I’m thankful for the easy access to information as well as the ability to turn the technology off!”

Myron S.

Medical technology improves lives drastically. Knee or hip replacements help people get back on their feet.  Simple medicine for blood pressure or thyroid imbalances gives people the ability to take a pill and be healthy. Psychological advances help people find balance and find joy in every day. 

“Ability to stand on my feet, and return to work.”

M. O. (after hip and knee surgery)

“I am grateful for technological advancements that have improved not only the ease of everyday living, but the state of medicine, education, and security by leaps and bounds.”

D. L

Technology improves quality of life, even with the known disadvantages.  Bill Gates invented a toilet that can be used in areas that don’t have a sewer system. We don’t think about being grateful for toilets, but those people in Africa and Romania would be. 

Be grateful for the minds and hearts of those who create and improve these technologies, and those who donate their wealth and time to do good and help those less fortunate.  

Be grateful for the material things: the car that gets you to your destination; the tools that inspire creativity and projects around the house; toys, clothes, appliances, and everything that improves your life. 

Check out this sentence that actually has 5 things I’m grateful for:

1. The blue tooth speaker that blasts 2. that song I chose on 3. You Tube, that makes me 4. dance in 5. my cozy clean kitchen.  

I.O.

Today, when you go around the dinner table, thank each other for being patient. Thank your parents for their efforts to keep you safe.  Thank your children for always thinking of you when they make decisions. Thank your siblings for listening; giving good advice and babysitting, when you needed it. 

“Grateful for my older brother, he’s my homie.”

N. D.

Be thankful for pastimes and hobbies that give your life more purpose; your church, ethnic organizations, the gatherings with friends, workout groups, and professional networks. This is the time to remind ourselves that we have everything we need.

Finally, Remember to Thank God for His good blessings and the future, which will only bring new things to be grateful for. 

“Велике щастя – зустрічати новий день!” Андрій Кузьменко

Thank you for your input, and for reading.

From all of us, at the Providence Association, We Wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving and may the blessings keep coming!

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“Every saint has a past and every sinner has a future.” These encouraging and truthful words speak to the theme of Resurrection. Every one who believes in God is encouraged by what God has done for the world and for each of us. The week where we recall Christ’s suffering is followed by the Easter Victory “Christ is Risen!”  We too can rise because Christ reminds us that he won for us our future. May each of us rise to our own personal victory over sin and encourage others to do the same.” Words of Rev. Ivan Kaszczak

So many things are happening around us, in our families and communities, our countries, and everywhere in the world. There are those who are good, those who are finding it difficult to be good, and even those who see no wrong in their sins. Countries are at war, people are starving, many are addicted, many are sick; very often many do not see the light at the end of the tunnel. This past week we took the time to think about the suffering that Jesus endured, and not just during the Holy Week, but throughout his life; and the suffering that his close family, and all those who believed in him and his teachings, endured, we should fully understand that life has its downs. We must understand that everyone has their own cross to bear.

Today, we celebrate Easter, the Resurrection of Christ. The light that always exists at the end of each of our tunnels. Today we are reminded that as God said, Jesus would die and rise from the dead. And so shall we.

Take the time today to reflect on the gift we are given. Today may not be the day of change, but God will accept us whenever we are ready.

We, at the Providence Association would like to wish you and your family a very Happy Easter. May the Resurrection of Christ, bring a renewed hope, joy and peace, into your hearts and your souls.

Вітаємо вас і ваші родини з Хрестовим Восресінням! Хай це чудо вам відкриє відновлену надію, радість і віру. 

Христос Воскрес!

Воїстину Воскрес! 

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The Lenten season is among us, this time to meant to lead us to a deeper and closer relationship with Christ.   

What do you and your family do for Lent?  Do you give up something; fast on Fridays? Do you spend more time in prayer? Do you go to Liturgy more often? Are these actions you take during the 40 days but go back to normal routine after Easter? There are many ways to celebrate Lent and observe the season.

The meaning and reason for Lent is to bring us closer to God, which means we should aim to get rid of sin from our lives, and not just during Lent.

If you focus on giving up something, then follow through and give it up for good. Set aside some time for prayer to calmly and deeply look at your life. What sins do you confess the most? This is where you should focus your energy. Then, give yourself a concrete and reasonable goal during Lent, something that will help you battle these particular sins, even after lent. 

Giving something up is not necessarily the only way to look at this time. Consider adding good habits, like praying the rosary, reading scripture every day, visiting church frequently and even donating or helping the less fortunate.  Bring your family together to do these things.  Take this time to form a habit to pray together, and focus on how to help your loved ones get closer to God.

If you need some ideas, we have compiled a list for you.  We encourage including your family and children, and continue these habits throughout the year. 

1. Read the Sunday Scripture before Liturgy to familiarize yourself with the readings.
2. Focus on a new habit — 40 days of writing in a journal, 40 acts of kindness, 40 phone calls to people in your life.
3. Forgive everyone, and ask for forgiveness.
4. Read a book of daily reflections, or you can check out this website. https://mycatholic.life/books/40-days-at-the-foot-of-the-cross/  
5. Volunteer at least one weekend or weeknight; visit the elderly or serve meals.
6. Make a commitment to fast from gossip and cruel comments about others.
7. Everyday, pray for someone in need, whether it’s someone you see on the street, or someone you know who is spiritually lost, or sick. Encourage your children to participate by praying for someone they choose. 
8. Get to know your neighbors, send a home cooked meal to an elderly person, or a family to doesn’t eat home cooked meals often.
9. Go to Confession and receive Communion.
10. Read the “The Ladder of Devine Ascent” by John Climacus, recommended by Monsignor Peter Waslo, who called it the classic text of spirituality during the Great Fast for Eastern Christian, it may be used for daily reflections during this time.

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There is nothing more morally fulfilling than helping someone or donating to a charity.

There are thousands of charities that help people, children, animals and many other causes. If you financially have the ability to donate, a life insurance policy will maximize all tax and estate benefits at the least cost to to you and to your beneficiary.

Naming the Charity as a Beneficiary

This is a very simple method for charitable giving. Whole life insurance is designed to provide a death benefit larger than the monies invested into it thus the gift to charity is expanded – it is larger than the outright gift of the monies invested into it would otherwise have been. Because the policy will not have been transferred outright to the charity, the proceeds are subject to estate taxes. However, the unlimited federal estate tax charitable deduction will completely offset that estate tax liability.  In an unexpected financial pinch, you can remove the charity as beneficiary and enjoy the fruits of the policy for yourself and your heirs.

Transfer of a New Life Insurance Policy to Charity.

An absolute assignment (gift) of a new life insurance policy on the donor’s life can be made to the charity, in which case the charity would also be named as the irrevocable beneficiary. This will not only award the charity the significant expanded gift of the death benefit, but will also insure that that gift is given, even if the donor meets an untimely death. The gift is both expanded and guaranteed. By the same token, the donor can deduct the premiums, thereby dramatically reducing the cost of his gift. Viewed from another perspective, the donor can make a dramatic gift on an installment plan and also enjoy the deductions that are created by the payments.

Transfer of an Existing Life Insurance Policy to Charity.

Those insureds that might have lost a direct need for life insurance can elect to donate an existing life insurance policy to a charity. This will create an immediate ordinary income tax deduction in the amount of the policy’s cash value and will also generate charitable deductions in the amounts of future premiums paid. This is a very desirable alternative to cash surrendering the policy and incurring the ordinary income tax consequences of such an action.

Immediate Payment to the Charity Outside of Probate and Estate Taxes.

If the donor survives for three years after donating a policy to charity, the death benefit will be payable to the charity directly, immediately upon the donor’s death, without the hassles of probate and without the imposition of any estate taxes.

Life Insurance Can Cover the Value of Large Charitable Gifts of Property.

Many of our members might want to make significant one-time contributions of real or personal property, but decide against them because they worry about disinheriting or upsetting their heirs. Will their children have sufficient funds for emergency or lifestyle needs? Will there be enough for the grandchildren’s educations? Will the heirs feel slighted if money is left to charity instead of to them? One solution is to purchase life insurance to cover the gap. Each year the donor member would not only have the joy of charitable giving, but would receive an appropriate charitable deduction, which benefit would help defray the future costs of the annual premiums.

Annuity Savings Plan Gift.

Donors that might need a supplemental income stream can make use of an annuity for his or her charitable giving plans. The donor would place his or her gift into an annuity and, at the appropriate time, request an income stream from it. Your Providence representative can design an income stream that will guarantee an ultimate sizeable gift of principal remaining after the donor’s death. As an appointed irrevocable beneficiary, the church or charity would receive the annuities assets, after it has paid an income stream to the donor.

Links to Donate:

http://ukrarcheparchy.us/donate

Donate

To open an account, please contact us.

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