This year’s stewardship theme honors our rich legacy and beckons us to build upon our many gifts: Growing in Faith Together at St. John (GIFTS).

When Jesus was teaching about the Kingdom of God, he often used imaginative stories of growth. He    described God’s Kingdom as a tiny mustard seed that grows into a large tree and provides shelter for the birds of the air (Matt. 13:31-32). He described it as yeast that mixes with flour until it becomes fully leavened (Matt. 13:33). He described the Kingdom as seed that gets scattered indiscriminately yet seeks to grow wherever it can (Matt. 13:1-9). They’re all images of growth that invite us to deeper growth in our Christian lives.

Growing in Faith Together is not just a convenient theme but also a way of life. Stewardship is woven into the fabric of this vibrant congregation, where members recognize their role as stewards of God's gifts. Through Christian formation, community engagement, and responsible financial management, St. John continues to thrive, nurturing the faith of our members and making a positive impact on the world around us.

None of this can be  accomplished without operating funds to support it. The Vestry is committed to operating our parish within our financial means. It is up to us as a parish family to support the mission of our church. Financial offerings are important for our parish budget, however we never want our budget to become our sole focus. Instead, we want to focus on the joy of giving. Maya Angelou said "I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver." Stewardship 2023 is our annual operating gift. We hope that you will consider increasing your commitment for the coming year so that we can continue to make a greater impact in our community and parish.

Abundant God, you made us in your image and breathed in us a spirit of generosity that is both gift and response. Move us, we pray, to give as we have received-abundantly, generously, and  joyfully that our common ministry may ever bear witness to your unfailing grace.  In the name of the Three in whom we are One, Amen.

Fr. Eric, Rector

Tom Russell, Stewardship Chair