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Stewardship: A Way of Life

In their 1992 Pastoral Letter on Stewardship, "Stewardship: A Disciples Response", the U.S. Bishops defined a Christian Steward as follows:

“One who receives God’s Gifts gratefully, cherishes and tends them in a responsible and accountable manner, shares them in justice and love with others, and returns them with increase to the Lord.”

As the definition implies, Stewardship is a way of life. It challenges Catholics to be steward-disciples by using their gifts in service to God and others. To be a good steward requires a disciplined life-style and an attitude of gratitude.

Bishop John J. McRaith, an original member of the U.S. Catholic Bishops’ Ad Hoc Committee on Stewardship summarizes succinctly the heart of the 1992 pastoral letter with these words, “Once one chooses to become a disciple of Jesus Christ, Stewardship is not an option.”

Today in our society individualism, materialism, excess and entitlement are communicated through media and our culture. They promise so much, but deliver nothing of lasting value. Our yearning for more and better can lead us away from true and everlasting happiness found only in graciously doing God’s will on earth. Once we recognize with our minds and acknowledge with our hearts all that God has given to us, we desire to return a grateful portion. We proclaim our gratitude by redirecting more of our personal energy and resources to do His will. “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done……”. Once we hear prayerfully the needs of our church, our families and our communities….we are called to respond, serving where and how we can in the Name of Christ with our time, talents and treasures.

Stewardship starts with the personal need for each one of us to give back to God.

Vision Statement of the Office of Stewardship and Development: Living Stewardship as a Way of Life – Through Prayer, Faith and Action – More than Yesterday, Less than Tomorrow – Always striving to become more like Jesus Christ.

Our local parishes continue to be the best source for inviting and encouraging Catholics to be steward-disciples and live a grateful and loving life to it’s fullest. The Office of Stewardship & Development for the Diocese of Colorado Springs will serve as a resource for all parishes and missions wanting to incorporate the Stewardship Way of Life in their local community.

The Office of Stewardship & Development promotes the Stewardship Way of Life through the following: