Glory and Thankfulness

Glory and Thankfulness – Hallmarks of Stewardship, Adapted from an article by E. Jane Rutter, Director of Stewardship, Diocese of Jefferson City, Missouri

Jesus calls us to follow. The Christian vocation represents a call to be a disciple of Christ. Receiving our commissioned summons in Baptism and Confirmation, we can focus on listening and for Christ’s personal calls throughout our lifetime. We respond through our spiritual formation and stewardship expressions.

Every day gives new opportunities to show that we choose to live as one of Christ’s disciples. Our expressions can show that we have listened to the Gospel messages, have received God’s gifts gratefully, are nurturing our gifts responsibly, sharing them justly and generously and returning each with gratitude through our daily living.

October 4 Respect Life Sunday – Stewardship demonstrates respect for God’s creation. Be aware of the many educational opportunities, prayer services, public witness events and programs to raise funds for those in need that are hosted in your diocese throughout the month of October to help build a culture of respect and defense for every human life. Each person is called to demonstrate reverence for human life through his/ her own special and unique gifts of creation.

October 18 World Mission Sunday - Organized by the Society for the Propagation of the Faith, World Mission Sunday is an important day in the life of the Church because it reminds Catholics worldwide about the importance of giving: “…as an offering made to God, in the Eucharistic celebration” and for the missionary activity of the Church (see Redemptoris Missio 81). We are reminded, as stewards and disciples, that it is the Lord through His universal Church, who we are called to serve - with the same love that He gives to each of us.

October 25 World Priest Day - This Sunday we celebrate the men who have exercised a unique stewardship of their lives by entrusting them to the Lord as priests. It is an opportunity for Catholics to thank, affirm and share their love and support for priests. Started by the Worldwide Marriage Encounter community, it is joined with the Serra Club’s celebration of Priesthood Sunday today. Throughout this year, dedicated as the Year for Priests, we can pray for vocations, and encourage those who might respond to this unique call. We can also respond to our own baptismal call by working collaboratively with our priests to build up the Kingdom of God.

October 31 “All Hallows Eve” – In the annual rhythm of the Church’s life of prayer and worship, the Solemnity of All Saints begins with Mass on Saturday afternoon, October 31, as well as Evening Prayer I in the Liturgy of the Hours. We rejoice in those who celebrate the heavenly banquet with Jesus Christ and we recall the Church’s rich tradition of faith-filled stewards. Keep “All Hallows Eve” from becoming “hollow” by celebrating the Christian connection to Halloween and the positive messages that stem from the holiday for the benefit of ourselves and the spiritual formation of our children. Celebrate this day as a Catholic heritage of faith.

Source: International Catholic Stewardship Council Website