“I’ve been involved in our parish for years, and I give a consistent gift to the offertory — so why do I need to fill out a Commitment Card every year?”
This is one of the most frequently asked questions during our annual Stewardship Renewal. It can be answered by considering the following illustration.
Imagine a man and woman who have been married for 15 years, and love each other very much. The husband is dedicated and faithful to his wife, and he looks forward to many more years together. The wife feels the same way — there is no question about the strength of their commitment. They’re in it for the “long haul.” But on their anniversary, do they still give each other a card?
Of course they do! Their love is so strong that they enjoy expressing it to each other in a special way on their anniversary — not out of obligation, but because it’s something they want to do for one another. Exchanging cards reminds them of their original covenant and their future together.
Just as an anniversary card expresses the married couple’s love for one another, your stewardship Commitment Card is an annual expression of your dedication to God and our parish, even though you are already committed. It is a concrete expression of what is already in your heart. It is telling God that you are in it for the “long haul.”
Sometimes, though, as in a marriage, God may be calling you forward. The marriage anniversary may see one spouse promise to be more patient or less critical. And during our Stewardship Renewal, God may be calling you — as involved as you already are — to new heights of service or generosity.
And, just like a good wedding anniversary, Stewardship Renewal is an opportunity to look back at how God has touched your life through the year. When you count your blessings, the desire to commit — or re-commit — should emerge without a second thought. So, celebrate a happy Stewardship Anniversary!
