What is Stewardship?

Every fall, we ask Emmanuel’s parishioners to support the church financially for the coming year. This is essential for the continued life of our parish, and pledges of every amount are gratefully received.   

 

Here are some words from Reverend Brett regarding stewardship:

 

God talks about money all the time, and so should we! Where we spend our money is a direct reflection of our beliefs. Our church budget is our theological statement to each other and our community.

 

“Stewardship is the spiritual state of gratitude that recognizes we hold more than enough of God’s gifts.” I give because I am grateful. I want you to join me in responding to who we are.

I believe in asset-based gratitude. I am thankful for who we are and what we have right now. In the next year, we will continue to focus on who we are as a parish and build our vision based on our strengths. Today, our mission is based on what we already are.

 

We are a gifted church.

We are a loving church.

We are a thriving church.

We are a flourishing church.

 

This is our theology of abundance.

 

More than half of Emmanuel’s operating budget—including staff salaries—is supported by these annual gifts.

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It’s not all about money. The Episcopal Church defines stewardship as: What I do, with all that I have, after I say, “I believe.” Christian stewardship is a grateful and responsible use of God’s gifts in the light of God’s purpose as revealed in Jesus Christ. Stewardship is lived out in:

 

• Living and telling the good news

• Sharing God in seeking justice, peace, and the integrity of creation in an interdependent universe

• Wisely employing God-given human resources, abilities, and relationships

• Sharing the material resources we hold and giving them in service, justice, and compassion

• Providing for future generations, sharing in the life, worship, and responsible stewardship of the Church and of its mission

• Stewardship is a joyful act for the individual, the community, and for the sake of God’s world

 

WE ARE GRATEFUL FOR

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• A flourishing community made even more vibrant by the gifts provided by all of us—the beloved children of God

• Our committed lay leaders and volunteers

• Our beautiful church building

• Connection to others through worship and fellowship

• Community outreach

• Our beloved parish staff

• Our children’s and adult education programs

• Music provided by our talented choir

• The energy and joy within our community

• Spiritual and personal growth

• Our mission work

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YOU BELONG HERE