WHAT IS STEWARDSHIP?

As Christians, we believe that God is the Giver of all good things. As stewards of God's gifts, we return to him a portion of our time, service and money for Christ's work on earth through his Church.

The Christian Stewardship program of Church support is an opportunity to respond to Christ's love by perpetuating our Church's mission. Stewardship places the responsibility to support the Church exactly where it belongs, on us.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

A Steward, according to the Bible, is one who manages the gifts entrusted to him by God for his welfare and for the perpetuation of the Lord's work.

Our money and possessions are not ours, but on loan. When we give to the Church, we return to God, the Owner, his rightful portion. The more we are given, the more will be expected of us. "Those to whom much is given, much is expected."

WHY IS MONEY NEEDED?

To fulfill the Church's mission, we must commit ourselves to bear our fair share in the financial support of our Church's expenses on a parish, Diocesan and Archdiocesan level. Money is a necessary tool for ministry.

WHAT GUIDE CAN I USE TO DETERMINE MY GIVING?

We ask that you find it in your heart to give 4% of your income to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church.

Proportionate giving involves two things. Firstly, that our level of giving rises out of our level of income. Secondly, that giving out of thanks will involve sharing a portion of that income for God's work.

Most of us require guidance as to our level of giving. What we are searching for is "what is a worthy level?" Would a bar of chocolate be a worthy gift to one's wife for her birthday?

The Bible gives much guidance by teaching us that direct giving to God and his work should be proportionate to our income, wealth and possessions. Each person is to give according to his or her own ability.

The Old Testament laid down the standard of the tithe or 10% of one's income. This provides us with the principle that giving should be a proportion of our income. Each Steward should determine what percentage of his or her income will be committed to the Church.

We should consider what we spend on television, holidays, pets, dining out, sports events, vacations and so on. How do these compare with our giving for God's work?

GIVING IS GROWING

AM I EXPECTED TO INCREASE MY STEWARDSHIP COMMITMENT EACH YEAR?

Yes! In making a decision, one should keep in mind that the expenses of the Church increase every year. In order to meet our expenses, each Steward should increase his or her commitment.

AM I BOUND TO MY STEWARDSHIP COMMITMENT?

Your Stewardship Commitment is kept in confidence. Jesus taught us that giving should be done quietly, generously and out of sight of others. If you wish to revise your commitment during the year for any reason, you may send a note to the Church Office indicating your intention.

HOW SHALL I PAY MY STEWARDSHIP COMMITMENT?

You may pay your commitment in the manner that suits you best. Since small regular contributions are easier to manage, it is suggested that your contribution be made on a weekly or monthly basis. You may however also contribute, quarterly, semi-annually or annually. Stewardship commitment can also be paid with the transfer of stocks, bonds or mutual funds. Holy Trinity has a brokerage account to accommodate gifts of securities. Call the Church Office for details

WHO WILL MY STEWARDSHIP COMMITMENT INCLUDE?

The Stewardship Commitment includes husband and wife for married couples and single adults as Stewards. Our Sunday School students will continue to make their own Stewardship Offering each Sunday. Family members over 18 years of age, who are employed, should make their own Stewardship Commitment.

Participation in the Stewardship Program allows each Greek Orthodox Steward to vote and seek elective office in the administration of the parish as provided in the Archdiocesan and Parish by-laws.

HOW CAN A NEW MEMBER JOIN OUR CHURCH?

Orthodox Christians, who wish to be served by our parish, may become Stewards of Holy Trinity by making a Stewardship Commitment for the current year.

"With All My Heart"