But the appeal is about more than just fundraising, although that is a part of our goal. It is about being good stewards of the gifts we are given. it is also about being good disciples of Christ. In 1 Peter 4:10, we are each directed to ‘use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.’
Every one of us has a responsibility to support our church as stewards and disciples. We can manifest this in numerous ways. Perhaps we use our time to attend Eucharistic Adoration (1st & 3rd Tuesdays), make Valentine’s for Mt. Carmel residents, or prepare Sunday dinner for our community. Maybe we offer our talents when we join in the music ministry, lector at Mass, or welcome others to worship with us. Maybe we tithe to the church, realizing that all we have comes from God.
Our situations may vary, and our abilities can grow and change. But we know that without support from us, the people of the church, the church would not exist. So it is up to us to build up our church. Today we are asked to consider giving of our treasure to our church. The Newman Center benefits from the appeal, and without that support, we couldn’t continue our ministry. Approximately 90% of our budget comes from diocese support. So please, prayerfully consider participating in the appeal with a donation. All amounts will help us reach our goal. Perhaps you might give up the cost of a pizza or coffee or a movie and donate that to our appeal. You can even give your donation online at the diocesan website. Be sure to select UNK Newman Center, Kearney from the bottom of the list!
I’d like to close with this thought on Stewardship, by an unknown author. It reminds us that we are not called to wait for someone else to do God’s work, but rather, that we are Christ’s body in the world.
Dianne Keiter
Stewardship
My church is composed of people like me. I help make it what it is.
It will be friendly, if I am.
Its pews will be filled, if I help fill them.
It will do great work, if I work.
It will make generous gifts to many causes, if I am a generous giver.
It will bring other people into its worship and community, if I invite and bring them.
It will be a church of loyalty and love, of fearlessness and faith, and a church with a noble spirit, if I, who make it what it is, am filled with the same things.
Therefore, with the help of God, I shall dedicate myself to the task of being all the things, that I want my church to be.
Author Unknown
