Christian Living and the Practice of Stewardship
“As each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” (1 Peter 4:10) Stewardship, born of God’s love, summons all members of the Christian community to a new way of life. Each of us, gifted by the Holy Spirit in a unique way, is invited to share in Christ’s Priestly, Prophetic and Kingly ministry. By sharing the truth of the Gospel and serving others, we witness to His presence in the world today.
Stewardship is an all encompassing lifestyle, a life of total accountability to God through responsible Christian living. It begins by acknowledging God as the creator and owner of all. Stewards see themselves as caretakers of God’s gifts. Their gratitude to God for His many gifts is expressed through acts of prayer, worship, and in various forms of service and giving.
Stewards eagerly share their gifts out of love for God and one another.
Stewardship Prayer
Almighty God I give thanks for all that I have and all that I am. Most of all I give thanks for the great gift of your Son, Jesus. I pray that I may be a good stewards – that I will follow faithfully, serve joyfully, give generously, live responsibly and possess sensibly. In gratitude for the abundant gifts you have so graciously given to me; I return to you the first fruits of these gifts, through acts of service and by generously sharing all that you have entrusted to me. Heavenly Father, by your Holy Spirit – Give me knowledge and Understanding, help me to be a gift to others in your name. Amen.
Parish Stewardship Resources
Stewardship: Well Done Good and Faithful Servant
A Pastoral Letter by Most Rev. Thomas Collins, Archbishop of Edmonton. An outline of the meaning of Stewardship in the Christian life, reasons to become involved in Stewardship and reflection questions. Read more (Available in booklet form and in French, contact our office.)
Stewardship: A Disciple's Response
A Pastoral Letter on Stewardship. United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. This quintessential document on Stewardship describes Stewardship as A Way of Life. Read more