Stewardship

Stewardship is our giving back to God what He has graced us with. Although the financial aspect comes to mind first when stewardship is mentioned, donating our services is also a form of stewardship. Stewardship is based on the spiritual principles of the Old Testament and the teachings of Jesus. It is a ay of life, a way of thanking god for all His blessings. It is a spirituality that deepens our relationship with the Lord.

The Bishops’ Pastoral Letter of 1992, Stewardship: A Disciple’s Response, explains three convictions that are at the heart of stewardship.

• Mature disciples make a conscious, firm decision, carried out in action, to be followers of Jesus Christ no matter the cost to themselves.

• Beginning in conversion, change of mind and heart, this commitment is expressed not in a single action, not even in a number of actions over a period of time, but in an entire way of life. It means committing one’s very self to the Lord.

• Stewardship is an expression of discipleship with the power to change how we understand and live out our lives. Disciples who practice stewardship recognize God as the origin of life, the giver of freedom, the source of all they have and are and will be. They are deeply aware of the truth, that “The Lord’s are the earth and it fullness; the world and those who dwell in it.”(Psalm 24:1). They know themselves to be recipients and caretakers of God’s many gifts. They are grateful for what they have received and eager to cultivate their gifts out of love for God and one another.

All Catholic Christians are encouraged to show their gratitude to God for all his generosity by practicing stewardship with an open and giving heart.