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About Us: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Maryknoll one entity or three?
Technically, three. The Vatican requires that the Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers, the Maryknoll Sisters and the Maryknoll Lay Missioners be three separate entities due to the unique nature of the communities represented. Overseas, we sometimes work hand-in-hand to serve in ministry. But each entity is a distinct organization that is separately operated and funded.
What if I want my donations to be split between all three Maryknoll entities? How does that work?
We can accept such donations, and then coordinate with the other entities to put your generosity to work. But this does take a bit of time. However, if you send three separate checks, we can simply forward the checks to each entity for you, thus speeding the impact of your contributions.
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Is my gift tax-deductible?
Yes, donations made to support MKLM are tax-deductible. In addition, we will furnish you with a letter of confirmation for tax purposes.
What are MKLM’s most pressing financial needs?
Our greatest challenge each year is to sustain our missioners that are already in the field, and to train and send new missioners overseas. Our missioners live modestly by any standard (and the cost of living varies greatly by region), and your support makes their presence possible.
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Can I support a specific missioner’s work?
Yes, and you can do so in two different ways. If you’d like to offset the costs of keeping a specific missioner in mission, just include a brief note to that effect when making your contribution. Such gifts help address MKLM’s greatest need. After all, “no missioner, no mission.” If you would prefer to send donations to a missioner for discretionary use in his or her ministry, please indicate in the memo line of your check: “Missioner’s Name” M.A. We’ll be happy to pass along your gift for use in the field.
To which address should I send my donation?
If you are using an envelope that has our Processing Center address on it, then please use that. If you addressing your own envelope please send donations to: Maryknoll Lay Missioners
P.O. Box 307
Maryknoll, NY 10545
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Can I get a Missioner to speak at my church, classroom, or event?
Absolutely! Ellen O’Connell is one of a handful of MKLM missioners that works in the United States. Her ministry is to coordinate “Mission Talks”, or “Church Talks” so that parishioners (and others) around the country can learn more about MKLM’s work and the continuing need for overseas mission. Each year, Ellen coordinates with dioceses and parishes to schedule more than 100 church visits. (We’ve always received great feedback from these engagements!) Most often, Mission Talks are offered during Mass at the time of the homily and are given by an active or returned missioner. Speaking at conferences, events, and schools is also easily arranged through Ellen. For more information or to schedule a Mission Talk, email:eoconnell@mklm.org
How can I see Maryknoll Lay Missioners in action?
MKLM provides mission awareness trips to our mission sites where you can see the work we do in person. If you’re interested in the opportunity, check out the Friends Across Borders section of our web site or contact the manager of that program, Cecilia Espinosa, directly at 914-762-6364 ext. 207.
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Does MKLM offer any short-term volunteer opportunities?
Yes and no. MKLM does not offer such opportunities for individuals…our specialty is long-term service. However, we do work with college and university groups to provide month-long Service Learning opportunities at selected ministry sites. Such groups should check out the Friends Across Borders section of our web site or contact the manager of that program, Cecilia Espinosa, directly at 914-762-6364 ext. 207.
I have questions regarding becoming a lay missioner and what it is like to be an MKLM missioner.
Click here to visit the “Becoming a Lay Missioner” questions and answers.
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What does the BBB seal mean?
By displaying this seal, our organizatin has made a commitment to the BBB's 20 standards of Charitable Accountability and is a BBB Accredited Charity. The standard of Charitablle Accountability evaluate charities financial accountability, governance and oversight, effectiveness measures, and fundraising and informational materials.
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