Pastor's Pen: Stewardship

My Dear Parishioners,
 
 Our parish is a vibrant, faith-filled community, blessed with many opportunities for you to share your time, talents, and treasures with others. As members of this community, we are called to live out our mission of service, love, and fellowship.
 
 In Matthew 5:16, Jesus encourages us, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Each of us has unique gifts that, when shared, can illuminate our community and bring glory to God. By volunteering, you become an active participant in God’s work, transforming faith into action and witnessing to the love of Christ.  The Second Vatican Council’s document, Lumen Gentium, reminds us that “the faithful are by baptism made one body with Christ and are constituted among the People of God; they are in their own way made sharers in the priestly, prophetic, and kingly functions of Christ” (LG, 31). 

Your involvement in parish ministries allows you to live out this profound calling. Exercising ministry and volunteering are not merely duties but expressions of our faith. In 1 Peter 4:10, we are reminded, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” Volunteering allows us to become active participants in God’s work, transforming our faith into action and witnessing to the love of Christ. By participating, you not only serve others but also experience personal spiritual growth. Volunteering is an opportunity to live out the Gospel values, deepen your faith, and form meaningful connections within our parish community. 

 Here are some key reasons why you should consider signing up for our various ministries and volunteer opportunities:
 
 1. Spiritual Growth: Serving in ministry deepens your relationship with God and helps you grow spiritually. Through service, you will find new ways to live out your faith and witness God’s work in your life and the lives of others.
 2. Community Building: Volunteering fosters a sense of belonging and community. It allows you to connect with fellow parishioners, build lasting friendships, and create a supportive network of individuals who share your faith and values.
 3. Personal Fulfillment: There is immense satisfaction in knowing that you are making a difference. Volunteering allows you to use your gifts and talents in meaningful ways, contributing to the betterment of our parish and the wider community.
 4. Stewardship: As stewards of God’s creation, we are called to give back to the church and our community. Volunteering is a way to practice good stewardship by sharing your time, talent, and resources for the glory of God and the service of others.
 5. Witness to Faith: Your active participation serves as a powerful witness to others. It demonstrates the importance of faith in action and inspires others to follow your example of service and love.
 
 We believe that everyone has something unique to offer, and your involvement, no matter how small, makes a significant difference. See our STEWARDSHIP PAGE in the bulletin for a listing of ministries/volunteer opportunities and who to contact or further information/training. 

Thank you for considering this invitation to serve. Together, let us continue to build a vibrant, faith-filled community that reflects the love and compassion of Christ.

Fr. Anthony McLaughlin, JCD