Walk in love as Christ loved us and gave himself for us, an offering and sacrifice to God.
Stewardship is responsibility for taking good care of resources entrusted to one. At St. Mary's, we are being good stewards by taking care of each other and our neighbors through our financial support of our church family through an Annual pledge. Additionally, we are good stewards by giving of our time, talent and energy to the many ministry and outreach opportunities offered at and through St. Mary’s. We are all asked to give back joyfully to God in thanksgiving for the abundance He has given us through our pledges of time, talent and treasure!
Each household should base their financial pledge upon a percent of income. Tithing (giving the first tenth or 10%) is a Holy Habit that should be the practice or goal of each member of St. Mary's. If it is a goal, one can use increases in proportional giving to grow into this Holy Habit. Just as we grow in faith, we continually strive for growth in our stewardship response to meet this standard of giving.
Stewardship is providing care in many different ways – monetarily and through one’s time, talent and energy. However you practice stewardship at St. Mary's, please know that it is recognized and appreciated by all who are affected by it. For more information please be in touch with our clergy or with Pete and Becky Lauer, our Stewardship Committee and Every Member Canvass chairs.
What is a pledge?
A commitment to give one's time, talents, and money as an expression of faith and a personal response to God's generosity. Parish members are encouraged to make an annual stewardship pledge. This pledge represents their specific Christian commitment to "work, pray, and give for the spread of the kingdom of God" (BCP, p. 856). Parish budgets are prepared in light of the pledges received from the members. A pledge is a statement of intent, not a legal obligation.
What is Stewardship?
Our personal response to God's generosity in the way we share our resources of time, talent, and money. Stewardship reflects our commitment to making God's love known through the realities of human life and our use of all that God has given us. It is also our service to God's world and our care of creation. Parish members are encouraged to make an annual stewardship pledge.
What is the Every Member Canvass?
A church stewardship campaign that invites every member of the parish to make a pledge for the upcoming year. The campaign may urge the parishioners to offer their time, talent, and treasure. Members of the parish pledge to give a certain amount of money to the church. The campaign may encourage parishioners to tithe as an expression of Christian generosity and commitment. The campaign emphasizes the importance of inviting each member to make a pledge to the parish. All members of the parish are urged to participate in stewardship as an expression of Christian generosity.
How can I make a pledge to St. Marys? Pledge cards can be found in the Narthex (just inside the Red Doors of the church), in the Church Office, or by clicking the link above. You can fill it out and either mail it to the Church (2609 N. Glebe Road, Arlington, 22207), place it in the offering plate, give it to a member of the staff, Vestry, or an Usher, or place it on the altar on Sunday, October 5.
Why is pledging better than just making a weekly donation in the offering? Pledging allows the Vestry and staff to anticipate the Church's annual income and budget accordingly. It helps the Church to make vital decisions concerning growth and expansion, programing, education, and outreach.
Is a signed pledge a contract?
When you make a pledge, we ask that you do so prayerfully. You and God determine the amount that is right for you. When you fill out and sign a pledge card, you are pledging that amount to the Church in good faith. It is not a contract or legally binding. Thus, if your financial circumstances change, for better or for worse, a pledge can be changed during the year.
Does my pledge really matter that much? Absolutely! Every pledge, no matter the size matters. And it matters a lot.
What is proportional giving? It is making a commitment to give a specific percentage of your income to St. Mary's. The appropriate percentage is up to you.
How do I determine what percentage is right for me? Most importantly, pray. Consider what 2% or 3% of your income is and then determine if you are able to pledge that amount. 2.5% is the average pledge in the Episcopal Church - equal to the first hour of a 40 hour work week. However, everyone's situation is different.
Why is proportional giving better than agreeing to give St. Mary's a flat dollar amount? No matter what, stewardship is intentional. And it is a deeply spiritual matter. Everyone approaches stewardship differently. Commiting to a percentage can be helpful because it has built-in flexibility for any ups and downs in your personal situation. As you prosper, you give more. If you are struggling, the church gracefully accepts that.
If you have other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our Clergy, Vestry, and Stewardship Committee are always grateful for opportunities for deeper conversation.
