FINANCE/GOVERNANCE

Stewardship
Power of an Hour

Earlier this week, the Our Lady of Peace Annual Report was sent to parishioners via bulk mail and the report details our financial situation and includes plans to address the challenges we face, particularly those of paying down our debt and moving toward a balanced operating budget.   An important part of the planning process and meeting our goals is asking parishioners to indicate their stewardship commitment for the upcoming year.   We have designed the enclosed stewardship commitment form to make it easy for parishioners to do just that.  

As we think about stewardship, it is helpful to keep it in the perspective of discipleship.   According the US Catholic Bishops, "Stewardship is about continual conversion and is an expression of discipleship, with the power to change how we understand and live out our lives" (USCCB - A Disciple's Response, 2002).   Additionally, the ancient understanding and spirituality of offering first fruits is a better disposition when thinking about one's stewardship, which means giving a portion back to God from the top rather than from what is left.  

This year, we are introducing another way for many households to think about their commitment.   We are calling it The Power of an Hour, which simply recognizes that everyone giving even a little (or a little more) goes a very long way.   Particularly targeted to those who are looking for a way to jump start their stewardship or give it a boost, The Power of an Hour approach asks us to consider dedicating one hour of gross wages per forty hours of work to the parish (or 2.5% for those who work part time).  

If you already dedicate more than one hour of wages, we thank you and encourage the continued support.   And for those who are retired or are currently not employed, remember that there are many ways to give.   The point is that every little bit helps and is appreciated.  

The other aspect of stewardship is sharing the gift of time and talent.   The Power of an Hour asks individuals to consider taking at least an hour a week for quiet prayer and giving at least an average of one hour a month to the parish.   Think about the benefits:   By adding an hour of prayer to the week, we grow in our relationships with God and others.   By everyone giving an average of an hour per month of time and talent, as a parish we grow in charity.   With such a broad participation, everyone wins.  

Again, The Power of an Hour is just one way to consider how far giving even small amounts (or increments) in time, talent and treasure can take us as individuals and as a community.   It is a simple way to think about stewardship and talk about it with your family.    Later this spring, look for more ideas of how one might give of their time and talent.   Here, we ask that you would complete the stewardship commitment form and return it in the enclosed envelope.     Please know that your support goes a long way to helping keep Our Lady of Peace a vibrant community through which the love of God can shine.  

With great appreciation and warmest regards in Christ,

Fr. Paul Treacy

Pastor