Stewardship

Stewardship: A Way of Life

In their 1992 Pastoral Letter on Stewardship, "Stewardship: A Disciples Response", the U.S. Bishops defined a Christian Steward as follows: 

“One who receives God’s gifts gratefully, cherishes and tends them in a responsible and accountable manner, shares them in justice and love with others, and returns them with increase to the Lord.” 

 As the definition implies, Stewardship is A Way of Life. It challenges us to be steward-disciples by using our gifts in service to God and others. To be a good steward requires a disciplined life-style and an attitude of gratitude. 

 Today in our society, individualism, materialism, excess and entitlement are communicated through media and our culture. They promise so much, but deliver nothing of lasting value. Our yearning for more and better can lead us away from true and everlasting happiness found only in graciously doing God’s will on earth. Once we recognize with our minds and acknowledge with our hearts all that God has given to us, we desire to return a grateful portion. We proclaim our gratitude by redirecting more of our personal energy and resources to do His will. “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done……”. Once we prayerfully hear the needs of our church, our families and our communities, we are called to respond, serving where and how we can in the Name of Christ with our time, talent and treasure

 

Stewardship is a living response to our faith

it is a necessary expression of what we say and believe.