by Karen Newkirk, Minister for Stewardship and Engagement
Since Fr. Gary is on pilgrimage to Poland and it is almost time for our annual stewardship appeal, here are answers to some “Frequently Asked Questions” about Stewardship.
Why is there a Stewardship Appeal every year?
An Annual Stewardship Appeal is a time for us as Christians to take time to reflect on the gifts that we have been given, and to prayerfully discern how we have been faithful stewards of these gifts. We also want to reflect on where we have fallen short in receiving and sharing these gifts. It is a chance to ask, “Where is the Lord asking me to give of myself in a greater way this upcoming year?” It is a time for us as individuals, families, parishes and as a diocese/archdiocese to recommit ourselves to Christ by offering all that we are, and all that we have as a gift back to Him, the giver of all good gifts.
Why is it necessary to complete a stewardship commitment form each year?
“’Why do we have to fill out a form?’ If we look at things logically, we realize that whenever we put things in writing and put our name to a form, the chances are we are going to fulfill it. If we just ‘promise’ to do something, we can always rationalize away that promise very quickly for all kinds of different reasons. If we have that form, we know what we have committed and are expected to follow through.” Msgr. Thomas McGread
The completed pledge forms are truly a gift that the parishioners collectively give to the entire parish family. The truth is that God has given each of us different gifts. The gifts are not given to us exclusively for our own benefit, but are given for the good of the whole. When I share the gifts I have received, the Body of Christ is strengthened and glorified. When I hoard the gifts I have received, the Body of Christ suffers.
- Taken from Catholic Diocese of Wichita Website, Parish Stewardship Renewal Resources