For Shepard and Norma Sloane, who reside near Jupiter, Florida, the choice of an annual large gift to the Missionary Oblates was easy. As a retired stock broker with 34 years of experience, Shep recognized the benefits of giving an outright gift of stock to fund the charitable works of the Oblates. With an outright gift of stock, no capital gains are assessed against that stock. In addition, the usual fee for the sale of a stock is avoided.

It is a win-win situation, both for the Sloanes and the Oblates!

The Sloanes first responded to mailings from the Oblates in 1992. “But it seemed like I always received material from them, even before that time,” Norma exclaimed. Then, in the mid 90’s, Norma and her sister participated in a pilgrimage to Lourdes led by Fr. Jim Taylor, O.M.I., a Charitable Gifts Associate.

“I was especially impressed with Fr. Taylor’s leading us through the Stations of the Cross at Lourdes,” Norma said. Later, when she and her sister were at the airport leaving France, she saw Fr. Taylor once more.

“Did you have a good time?” Father asked. Upon hearing Norma’s affirmative answer and learning that her husband was a stock broker, he suggested, “It would be so nice to send some stock to the Oblates sometime!”

Later, Norma and Shep followed through on Fr. Taylor’s suggestion, with financial benefits to both the Oblates and themselves.

Longtime residents of Florida, Norma and Shep have been married for 53 years. Their three children and ten grandchildren all live within easy driving distance of their home in Tequesta, near Jupiter. This proximity has led to a major milestone in the retired couple’s life. Six months ago, after 53 years, Shep converted to the Catholic faith practiced by the rest of his family.

Years of prodding by his children, but especially his grandchildren, led to his recent conversion. As Norma explains, the plea from a much younger granddaughter, “Come on, Poppy, let’s go to church” has borne fruit at last. “She’s 17 now!” Norma laughs.