Giving Thanks: Eucharistic Stewardship
Stewardship & Ministry Sunday is an opportunity for our community to stand as One to make a Stewardship Pledge to support financial Operational and Ministry Expenses of our beloved St. Demetrios Church.
The Spiritual Foundation of Stewardship
Offering Back to God: Everything we have—our time, talents, and treasures—is a gift from God. Stewardship is our way of offering a portion of those blessings back to Him in thanksgiving1.
Living Our Faith: As Fr. Anthony Coniaris wrote, “It is by offering our blessings back to God that He will be able to continue His forgiving, healing, liberating, empowering, transfiguring, loving ministry through the Church.”
A Way of Life: Stewardship is not a transaction—it’s a way of life that acknowledges accountability, reverence, and responsibility before God.
Supporting the Church’s Mission
Sustaining Ministries: From Sunday School and youth programs to outreach, counseling, and sacraments, every ministry depends on the generosity of stewards.
Empowering Evangelism: Stewardship enables the Church to proclaim Christ’s message, not only within the parish but throughout the broader community.
Caring for Clergy and Facilities: Financial support ensures our clergy are cared for and our sacred spaces are maintained with dignity and beauty.
Building a Stronger Parish Family
Unity and Vision: When members commit to stewardship, it fosters a shared sense of purpose and unity. As Fr. William Chiganos said, “People don’t give to need; they give to vision.”
Transparency and Trust: Stewardship encourages open communication about parish needs and goals, reinforcing trust between leadership and laity.
Participation in the Body of Christ: Every steward becomes an active participant in the life of the Church, affirming their role as a branch of the True Vine.
Stewardship as Witness
Martyria (Bearing Witness): By giving generously, we bear witness to a life in Christ—one of love, service, and sacrifice. Diakonia (Service): Stewardship is a form of ministry itself, helping others and supporting the Church’s outreach to those in need.
This commitment is not just about sustaining programs—it’s about sustaining the Church’s sacred mission in the world. When we give, we don’t just fund ministries—we become part of them.
Why Submit a Stewardship Pledge—Even If You Already Give?
Even for those who give faithfully, submitting a pledge is a sacred act of intention. It transforms giving from a habit into a commitment—a prayerful offering made in response to God’s blessings.
Here’s why it matters:
- It’s a spiritual discipline. Just as we prepare for confession or communion, pledging invites us to reflect on our blessings and respond with purpose. It’s not just about money—it’s about gratitude, trust, and participation in the life of the Church.
- It helps the parish plan responsibly. Your pledge allows the parish council and ministry leaders to budget wisely, support clergy, maintain sacred spaces, and grow ministries. Regular giving is wonderful—but a pledge gives clarity and confidence to those entrusted with stewardship.
- It builds unity. When every member submits a pledge, we affirm that stewardship is a shared responsibility. Whether the amount is large or small, the act of pledging says: “I belong. I believe in this mission. I’m part of this family.”
- It honors transparency and accountability. Pledging helps us communicate openly about our needs and goals. It fosters trust and ensures that our financial decisions reflect our values and priorities.
- It’s an offering of love. In the Orthodox tradition, stewardship is never transactional—it’s transformational. A pledge is a candle lit in faith, a gesture of love for Christ and His Church.