Abide in Me
“I am the vine; You are the branches”
STEWARDHIP CORNER
Bill Evans, Stewardship Chair
Our Stewardship theme for 2012 is, “Abide in Me“. We are called to apply our gifts, training, abilities, education and skills to the tasks that God places before us. Just as the vine bears fruit only through its branches, so Jesus has chosen to work in the world through us. We are the members of His Body. We are the branches through which the True Vine must bear fruit. We bear fruit when we serve and support God and His Church.
How Do We Abide in Jesus? We abide in Him when we follow His example of love by serving and supporting the Church, which is His Body. When we abide in Jesus, we express this through faithful devotion – especially in our stewardship and acts of personal generosity. Bearing fruit in the world is the visible result of abiding in Christ.
Enclosed please find a 2012 Stewardship Card and Time and Talent Form. Please give prayerful consideration to the commitment you are making. Your financial gift to the church is most meaningful when accompanied by your presence, by your willingness to serve, by your prayers, and by your commitment. Giving is not a substitute for commitment – it is an expression of your commitment. “By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit.” (John 15:8).
The New Testament’s motivation for giving is grace; giving is an act of worship in response to the generosity of God. You are to give, Paul says, “as God has prospered you.” II Corinthians 8 and 9 teaches clearly, “He who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.” God blesses those who give with generosity.”
Stewardship is an opportunity to examine our priorities and values, to express our thankfulness, to give of ourselves and to grow in grace. It allows us to participate in the work of God. “Abide in Me” and see what we can do together with your support.
May our good Lord continue to be with you and bless you always.
With our Lord’s Blessings
Rev. Louis J. Christopulos
Chris N. Economos
Parish Council President
Bill Evans
Stewardship Chair
