Stewardship Committee, St. David's Episcopal ChurchOctober 31, 2007
Grounded, Growing, Giving in Christ. The theme of this year's Annual Giving Campaign asks us to reflect on the needs, hopes, and gifts that touch so many aspects of our lives at St. David's. Our support and participation are vital contributions that we make to ensure our parish family is not only provided for, but encouraged toward betterment. This is betterment not only of ourselves, but of our community and world.
Grounded in Christ. Like our own homes, God's house has many requirements in order to sustain our family. The home-base of our faith community requires time and financial support to maintain and foster spiritual growth. Meeting our basic necessities provides a strong foundation that we can build upon. Sharing the fruits of our labors with our church isn't so much giving, as sharing what we have been blessed with. Spending our time taking care of our church grounds should not be thought of as volunteering, but participating in the care of our piece of God's creation.
Growing in Christ. Christian education, fellowship, and faith formation prepares us to move upward in our own spiritual growth. The opportunities that we provide come from the dedication and labors of our teachers and ministers. Through God's glory we are empowered to cultivate the people of our church and promote a vibrant and dynamic community. Growth isn't something that happens one time, but it is an ongoing momentum that requires our dedication and diligence, so that we move forward in an ever-changing world.
Giving in Christ. In a world filled with increasing uncertainties, the church represents hope for so many. The love of God radiates on all of us so brightly, that we have a duty to reflect that light on all of His creation. Our responsibility to all of humankind is to show them the glory of God, through not just words, but actions. We carry with us the teachings of Christ out into the world so that their inspiration is felt by all with which we can share them. Reaching out and giving of ourselves is returned many times over when we can enrich the lives of everyone we touch.
Without your support, none of this would be possible. When we give a small piece of what we have, we only receive that small benefit. But when we give so much of ourselves, we all can be spiritually fed by the many gifts we have to share. When you think of what you would like to give of yourself, think of what nourishment your spirit is best fed with and how you can make sure that your community is taken care of.
This November, we ask you to think of how your support and participation are ensuring that St. David's is Grounded, Growing, and Giving.
Faithfully,
Steve Joyce
For the Stewardship Committee
