Stewardship
There are some who come to faith just by accepting. And then there those who come to faith by doubting. That’s how Thomas came to faith. But he got there. That’s why we’re all here today, so we can get there. We’re here at Eucharist so we can get to to that point in our faith where we say with Thoms, “My lord and my God.”
In an age of great doubt Pope Francis invites us to embody Christ in the world today. And to di it humbly and with compassion. From the very start of his papacy, Pope Francis chose the path of simplicity and service. He did it by meeting people where they were at, especially those who were hurting, excluded, or forgotten.
That tell us about our role as Christians. We’re not called to sit behind walls, but to go out and be the healing presence of Jesus. Pope Francis challenged us to live a faith that is not just spoken but seen. It’s a faith that is seen, in how we care for the poor, in how we welcome the stranger, and in how we protect God’s creation and the most vulnerable among us, the unborn
Pope Francis embodied that spiri.t. He did it with simple acts of kindness, like washing the feet of prisoners, getting out of the pope mobile to talk to little kids, and wearing old work boots as he made his rounds, the same work boots he was buried in. These are the things that shake us out of complacency. They remind us that if we’re to live the Gospel get ready to be stretched.
At St. Victoria, we work at being a parish family that embraces this spirit. Our mission statement puts it well. We strive to Be the Face and Hands of Jesus. We do so by proclaiming a God of sweet love, offering radial hospitality, and engaging in bold acts of charity and justice. If we’re going to be a parish family where all are welcome, this is how we do it.
We take our lead from Pope Francis. He calls us, as a church, to open our doors wide to everyone regardless of background, past choices, or circumstances. Like Pope Francis we can live out our faith not simply out of obligation but out of joy. That’s how we can be the Face and Hands of Jesus in a world that longs for hope.
This is who we strive to be as a pariah family. With that in mind if you support that vison, thank you for not just sitting on the sidelines but for your willingness to join us in our stewardship effort for this year.
So, if you could pass down the pews your stewardship commitment card for this year. If you’re ready to complete it, you can do so now and drop it in the collection. Otherwise, return it next week or at a time convenient to you. Again, thank you for all you do for St. Victoria Parish Family.
