Christian Stewardship:
The
Stewardship Message 2008
Giving to Make a Difference
Someone once said, “There are three books necessary to carrying on the work of the church. First there is the Good Book, the Bible which gives us God’s truth. Second, there is the Liturgy book which affords us to sing praises to God. Finally, there is the pocketbook, by which we support the ministry of the church.”
About that third book, there can be no doubt as to its importance. Of the 38 parables of Christ in the Gospels, the stewardship of material possessions is the theme in 16 of them. For believers today, the priority in stewardship is to practice it with faithful generosity. According to this passage, God enriches us so that we can be free and liberal in giving. This doesn’t negate responsibility and raises it to the next level.
I have heard people say, “The New Testament does not command us to give 10% of our income.” The inference often, but not always is: “We don’t need to give as much as 10%.” I don’t believe this for a minute. While we have not achieved such heights as being classified a “thither”, we have through the years made progress in our giving and we have met all of our expenses. We have always been careful not to spend more than we are capable of raising. We have not solicited special trays (except for special emergencies) nor have we depended on various social functions to maintain the ministry.
Through education, sermon, printed word and personal contact we have established stewardship as a viable and successful program to support the ministry of Holy Apostles.
Often when I read or hear a story of sacrificial intervention I’m prompted to wonder, who got the biggest blessing? The person who received help or the person who extended help? Of course, Jesus gives us the answer, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).
The essential message of 2 Corinthians 8:9 “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.” His giving enriched us and set an example for us to follow. We are blessed that we might bless. We receive that we might give. Paul put it this way to Corinthians: “Your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need.
In making a decision, keep in mind that the expenses of our Parish and the Church increase every year. In 2007, in addition to providing the ecclesiastical ministries and all the support in the church, a sum of $200,000 was used to give a much-needed face-lift to our multi purpose room. We have not imposed on the members of the Parish for any additional funds. However, when considering your new Pledge, reflect an increase for support in the church. Stewards should strive to increase their commitment annually.
Your Stewardship commitment is kept in confidence. Jesus taught us that giving should be done quietly generously and out of sight of others. If you wish to revise your commitment during the year for any reason, you may notify the Church Office.
Our budget for 2007 exceeded one million dollars. We shall exceed one million dollars again for 2008 year, and along with donations offerings on Sunday morning and large percentage from our pledges, we shall meet the needs. All this became a reality because we have equipped the saints for ministry. If we keep doing that faithfully I think God will continue to give us much fruit. We have such a great team here, and each person is vital to the ministry; but we all know that ultimately, it’s all about the Lord. May we strive for the same spirit, and may God grant us wisdom and boldness to give as he gives, with grace and liberality.
Grateful for you,
Father William Chiganos
Pastor