Over the next few days, all registered parishioners of the Cathedral and our friends who contribute to the Cathedral will be receiving an invitation from the parish to participate as stewards! Stewardship is the invitation to orient your lifestyle, choices, and habits around God. Through spending time in prayer and service and offering generously from your treasure, you are actively orienting your life toward one in intimate relationship with Jesus and the church. We appreciate the many of you who have consistently responded to this invitation!
If you are curious how your life might change when you become actively engaged in a stewardship way of life, consider these three activities of a steward as an example:
Making time for God in prayer…
What would your morning look like if you grabbed the Bible instead of your phone first thing in the morning (unless of course you read the Bible on your phone)? Would you approach the morning differently? Individuals who start their day in prayer tend to report a better morning routine, a happier demeanor in the morning, and better relationships to family, friends and co-workers.
Helping those in need
Think about the last time you volunteered in service to another. How did you feel? Did you feel accomplishment, purpose, or belonging? Last weekend, Cathedral volunteers helped at the Habitat for Humanity project. These volunteers experienced community building (literally!) and a sense of belonging. While they were able to help another in need, many felt a sense of accomplishment and gratitude for the gifts they have in their lives. When you give, you receive! On the following page, we have a list of ministry opportunities that you are welcome to inquire about and join!
Generously and proportionately giving
What do you normally give up for Lent? Why do you give that up? Lent is a great opportunity to let bad habits die, however stewardship is our constant reminder to detach from those materialistic goods, bad habits, or distractions in our lives that are preventing us from a deeper relationship with God. What items do you find yourself purchasing that you don’t really need? What habits could you down-size or break in order to practice greater tithing to the Parish mission? It is no easy task to change habits- especially financial ones- but this act of trust and joy filled giving can quickly develop into a holier, happier, and healthier lifestyle for you and/or your family!
Stewardship is a disciple’s toolkit and an opportunity is presented to us each time we go to Mass. We have the opportunity during the Offertory to discern our stewardship of prayer, gifts, or service. Think about these three questions the next time you are at Mass:
- Who can I pray for this week?
- How can I help someone this week?
- What can I give to God and His church this week?
Those reflective questions can help guide you toward a more active stewardship way of life!
If you have any questions regarding the Season of Stewardship or your participation in stewardship at the Cathedral, please contact Katie Price in the Parish Offices at [email protected] or call the Parish Offices at 522-3342.
If you would like to fill out the form online, please go here: https://spicathedral.org/stewardship-form/