Stewardship and our Lenten Journey

Feb 9

Letter from the Pastor
February 11, 2024

Stewardship and our Lenten Journey

"You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father." [MT 5:14-16]

A few weeks ago, I mention that at the start of Lent we would be looking at the other two aspects of Stewardship: Talent and Time. Well, believe it or not, Lent is almost here! Time certainly does fly when you’re having fun!

The goal of our stewardship program is to increase everyone's engagement in the life of the parish be it through the sharing of one’s time, talent, or treasure, or all three! You may recall that the notion of stewardship is caring for something we love. Typically, a steward cares for someone else's house. In our case, we are stewards of God's house. A steward is trustworthy, attentive, and committed and only wants what is best for what is entrusted to them.

This weekend, as stewards of our parish community, we will focus on our talents.

What talent do you have that you can share with the community? How can you become more engaged at St. Francis Parish? As I had mentioned previously, as a Eucharistic people, community is what it is all about. We are in this together. That, however, also means that we have to engage the community and share a part of ourselves so that together we all become stronger, better, and truly Eucharistic. As we take an inventory of our talents, we must also ask how we share them with others and not put them under a bushel basket.

This weekend at all the Masses, a parishioner will speak to the community after Communion to talk about why they think serving the community is important. Can you help our parish become a stronger community by sharing your talent? There are brochures at the doors of the church and an incredible page on our parish website that dives into the variety of ministerial opportunities that we have here at St. Francis Parish. Please consider joining us in spreading the Gospel. After you have filled out the commitment card in the brochure, you can mail it to me or drop it in the collection basket on Sunday. You can also fill out the card online. Simply scan the QR code on the brochure and it will lead you through the process. Once we have received your card someone will get back to you to discuss how you can engage that particular ministry or ministries.

Next weekend, the First Sunday of Lent, we will focus on the last aspect of Stewardship: Time. We will begin to ask ourselves how we use our time to grow closer to God and recognized the Kingdom of God in our midst. Stay tuned in. More to come on that.

Thank you for the goodness you share. We are a better community because of you.