Prologue:

    This is the fourth in a series of articles that will be appearing in the Sunday bulletin over the next several weeks. These articles are designed to help our parishioners understand what stewardship is all about and guide our parishioners in supporting our parish through prayer, service, and sharing.

Chapter Four: Stewardship of Service

    Ministry is about gifts and needs.  We identify and nurture the gifts God has given us; we place these gifts at the service of those in need.  Ministries are many in number and find expression in the areas of worship, education, community, social justice, leadership, and evangelization.  The Epistle of St. Peter reminds us: “As each one has received a gift, use it to serve another as good stewards of God’s varied graces” (1 Peter 4:10).

    A theology of ministry and service emphasizes that it is not so much that we do things for others but rather Jesus is doing something for others through us.  Being aware of the difference between “for” and “through” changes our whole manner of service.  That is why prayer is so important: it keeps reminding us that all stewardship is ultimately the work of the Lord taking place through the action of faithful disciples.

    Jesus came not to be served but to serve.  Through baptism and confirmation, we are called to a life of commitment to the wounded of the world.  The Eucharist strengthens us in that mission and the Christian community hopefully supports us in our responsibilities.

(Taken from “Theology of Stewardship” by Bishop Robert Morneau)

    Our parishioners are invited to prayerfully reflect on your commitment towards stewardship through prayer, service, and sharing. Consider sharing your gifts with our St. Matthew community.  (To be continued next week….) [Top]