Leaving a Legacy

a conversation with richard deitchman How did you get to know the monks?

I first met them through the college. I visited St. Benedict’s after I visited Donnely College. On my first visit I was able to personally meet many of them.

My cousin, Fr. Eric Deitchman was a monk there as well.

Do you know why Father Eric decided to become a monk?

It has to go back to his family. His mother was very religious; he has a sister that is a Sister of Charity in Leavenworth.

Why do you to support the monks of Saint Benedict’s Abbey?

Mostly because of Fr. Eric, I would say, and I saw the good work that he did. I was just drawn to him.

What else about the monks inspires you?

Their humility – they seem to be happy with their lifestyle.

And how to get along with people. When you talk to them it’s like they don’t have their habit on, you know? They were just decent people and treated everyone else with decency.

You respected them but you weren’t in fear of them – if you want to put it that way. They’re just real people.

What made you decide to put the monks in your will?

Just came natural. I mean, it was a foregone conclusion, I wanted them in there and that was that.

Why does the world need monks today?.

They truly set an example for people – how to live, really.

When you decided to leave the monks in your will, practically speaking, what was your next step?

I met with my tax attorney first and put them in [my will], along with a few other organizations.

Have you considered leaving the monks in your will or estate plans?

-A planned gift to the monks of St. Benedict’s Abbey creates a lasting legacy that will allow them to continue their mission of prayer and work for the sanctification of the world.

For more information contact our Director of Advancement -

Matt Kemnitz info@kansasmonks.org - or - 913.360.7897

-If you have already included St. Benedict’s Abbey in your will or if you have any ques tions, please contact our Advancement Office.