What is Stewardship?

Stewardship is caring for the needs of others.

Stewardship is offering one’s self to God as He offered Himself to us.

Stewardship is what a person does after saying “I believe…” as proof of that belief.

Williams and McKibben in Oriented Leadership

STEWARDSHIP AND THE STEWARD

Orthodox Christian Stewardship is a way of life which acknowledges our responsibility before God. A primary goal of Stewardship is to promote our spiritual growth and strengthen our faith. We become Stewards when we believe in God and begin to act on our beliefs. As Orthodox Christians, we affirm that every aspect of our lives comes as a gift from Him. By our faith, we are called to cheerfully offer back to God a portion of the gifts with which we have been blessed. An Orthodox Christian Steward is an active participant in the life of the Church. The parish encourages all who accept the Orthodox Faith to become practicing Stewards. Each year the Steward is expected to carefully review his or her personal circumstances and make a commitment of time, talent, and treasure to support the Parish and her Ministries, which in turn support the National Ministries of our Archdiocese, Metropolises, and related institutions.

STEWARDSHIP IS ABOUT THE JOY OF GIVING FREELY

Stewardship is a practice that can help shape our world and ourselves in such a way that we can experience God's grace, love and communion in the present. Stewardship is about what is possible for us as humans now rather than later. Rather than living with a fear of judgement when we enter the kingdom of God, Stewardship is the potential for experiencing great joy now. Stewardship is your gift to God in thanksgiving for all he has done for you. God is never outdone in generosity. A Steward is a manager, someone who looks after someone else’s property. That is what we are. We are all managers in God’s kingdom, and we have a responsibility to protect and grow God’s gifts.

Stewardship is an opportunity to examine our priorities and values, to express our thankfulness, to give of ourselves and to grow in grace. It allows us to participate in the work of God. Giving is not a substitute for commitment – it is an expression of your commitment. As St. John Chrysostom said, “A Rich Man is not one who has much but one who gives much. For what he gives away remains his forever.”

Please take time to make your Stewardship Commitment today and enable our Church to grow her ministries and carry on her mission. For your convenience, you may print a 2024 Stewardship Pledge Card here. You may mail it or place it in the Stewardship Box located in the Narthex at any time.