What is this Stewardship program and why is it important to our parish?

Stewardship is much more than a program; it is a life-long process, a way of life whereby we, as living disciples of the Lord, commit to putting God first in our lives. Stewardship is how we live for Jesus recognizing that all we are is reflective of God’s gifts to us. We recognize and thank God by returning a portion of His abundant blessings – our time, talent and treasure – helping to build His Church and support our community. The gifts we return out of gratitude for the blessings the Lord has given to us – that is our stewardship and is an outward expression of our membership in the body of Christ.

What is an Annual Stewardship Renewal?

Dioceses and parishes that have been faithfully practicing a stewardship way of life for some time have found that once the concepts of time, talent and treasure have been introduced and implemented in a parish that an annual stewardship renewal should be planned. It is widely believed that presenting the core elements of stewardship on a recurring basis is essential to the longevity of stewardship within a parish. St. Matthew’s annual stewardship renewal is held on the 3rd and 4th weekends in October.

But why do we need to renew our stewardship commitments of time, talent and treasure on an annual basis?

First, the message of stewardship like other messages in Scripture and the teachings of the Church need to be presented on a regular basis. Without those regular reminders and encouragements, we have a tendency to revert back to old ways. Second, just like in our spiritual life, we can always find ways to grow in our stewardship way of life. Renewing our commitment to stewardship gives us the opportunity to take the next step, returning with increase, in re-prioritizing our giving of time, talent and treasure. Finally, there are current members of the parish who are not involved and new members of the parish that would like to get involved. Annual stewardship renewal gives everyone the opportunity not only to begin but to renew the practice of living a stewardship way of life

Questions about stewardship? Email stewardship@stmatt.net or call the Parish Office at 359-4224.

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