The other day I was asked to teach students about stewardship at one of our local Catholic schools. To get us started, I turned to the students to teach me something first. Have you heard about this “floss” dance? The “floss” is a new dance that has swept the social media networks and shows a person moving side to side with their arms moving in a similar fashion back and forth. At first glance, it looks easy, but don’t be fooled! In fact, the dance takes great coordination, which at one point in my life I probably had! When I asked for volunteers to help me with “the floss,” the kids were jumping out of their seats. I am not sure which was more appealing, the attention of doing the “floss” in front of their peers or showing “Church-lady Katie,” an adult, how to “floss.” Both probably sounded equally ridiculous and funny, which is perfect for a child! Once the students approached and I incredibly embarrassed my poor daughter in the audience, the laughter was contagious and we were “flossing!” Well, I was attempting, I wouldn’t say successfully.
As the students took their seats again and the laughter turned into “shhh” from the teachers, we regrouped and I asked if they could tell me what any of that had to do with stewardship. As you are reading this, you are probably wondering the same thing! The students responded with some great answers, “It’s fun,” “We did it together,” “We volunteered.” I asked them if they felt joy or laughed. All responded, nodding their heads. Then I said, “Perfect, that is the beginning of stewardship, acknowledging the gifts we receive.” Acknowledging that gifts are not just tangible, but often the grace filled moments of laughter, friendship, joy, and happiness.
Living a stewardship way of life is being intentional about prayer, service, and giving. But stewardship is not just sacrifice, it is acknowledging the many gifts around us. Because of the good stewards in the pews, we have many gifts at the Cathedral. The sacred space is maintained and beautiful. The ministries and formation programs are welcoming and plentiful. We celebrate daily Mass and have beautiful music ministry volunteers to enhance the Sunday Liturgies. We are grateful for the committed volunteers who serve the Alpha guests. We are truly blessed at the Cathedral and it is because of the stewards in the pews. Are you one of them? If so, thank you! If not, consider joining us in a stewardship way of life. Start by acknowledging the gifts in your life, spending time in thankful prayer to the Lord and giving the Cathedral your time and talents. Stewardship is the act of acknowledging these gifts and sharing them with others. It is the activity of the disciples and we are each called to respond!
Katie Price is the Coordinator for Stewardship at the Cathedral and within the Diocese of Springfield. She can be reached at the Parish Offices or at [email protected].