Stewardship

Stewardship is a way of life. It is a way of living each day in gratitude for all the blessings that God has given to us. The roots of stewardship can be found in the Bible, which tells us over and over that God is the Creator and Giver of all gifts. It is our responsibility to show our gratitude to God for these gifts, by giving back to Him the "first fruits."

We do not own the gifts God gives to us. We are only here on earth to use those gifts to do God's work.

In 1992 the U.S. Catholic Bishops released a pastoral letter on stewardship entitled: Stewardship: A Disciple's Response.
The Bishops described a Christian steward as one who:

• Receives God's gifts gratefully
• Cherishes and tends them responsibly
• Shares them in justice and love
• Returns them to God

Sharing our gifts and returning them to God, means giving generously of our time, talent and treasure. We give to God by sharing with our faith community and with those in need. Time and talent can be shared by becoming involved in parish life, volunteering and offering a helping hand. Treasure can be shared by making a conscious effort to make a financial gift to the Church and other charities.