'When I was a stranger, you welcomed me.' Matt 25:35
Jesus Christ teaches that whenever we welcome one of the least of our sisters and brothers, we welcome Christ Himself. Parishioners of a stewardship parish see the face of Christ in one another. A stewardship parish is a welcoming parish regarless of the parish demographics: large or small - urban, suburban or rural.
'Prayer is as necessary to our souls as food is to our bodies.' from Characteristics of a Christian Steward
Prayer and the sacraments dispose a soul to receive God's abundant graces, which are necessary to grow in holiness. It is through prayer that we nurture our personal relationship with Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
'Being a disciple is not just something else to do, alongside many other things suitable for Christians, it is a total way of life and requires continuing conversion.' from USCCB's Stewardship a Disciple's Response - Pastoral Letter on Stewardship
Formation is a formidable task, involving education for the mind and conversion of the heart. To know the "stewardship way of life", does not make one live a "stewardship way of life." Ongoing Catholic education is important if we are to grow in our lives as stewards.
'...Amen I say to you, whatever you did for the least of my brothers, you did for me.' Matt. 25:40
Members of a stewardship parish are ready to minister to varied needs of their own parish family as well as the needs of the wider community and Church. Just as the members of a family come together to help one of their own, a stewardship parish family serves those who are hurting or in need, doubting or seeking salvation. The parish family also comes together to celebrate, thank and return God's gifts.
Click here for more Parish Resources on the 4 Pillars of Stewardship