“EVERYTHING I HAVE IS YOURS”
(Luke 15:31)

Dear Friends in Christ,

As we begin our annual stewardship season, I want to share a simple truth that changes everything: everything we have is a gift from God. The air we breathe, the talents we possess, the money in our wallets none of it truly belongs to us. We are stewards, not owners, called to manage God's gifts with grateful hearts.

Time, God's Daily Gift: Each day, God gives us 24 hours. How we spend this precious gift matters. Time spent in prayer draws us closer to God. Time given to family strengthens love. Time offered in service changes lives - including our own. Ask yourself: How is God calling me to use my time? Maybe it's daily prayer, volunteering once a month, or simply being present to those around me.

Talent, Gifts Meant to be Shared: God has given each of us unique abilities. Some can teach, others can comfort. Some organize well, others create beauty. Some lead, others serve quietly. These gifts weren't meant to be hidden they were meant to build God's kingdom. Your talents may seem ordinary to you, but they're extraordinary when offered to God. Whatever gifts you have, they find their purpose when shared in love.

Treasure, More than Money: Our financial gifts support parish ministries maintaining our church, feeding the hungry, educating children, caring for those in need. Every dollar given in faith becomes a tool for God's work. But treasure includes more than money. It's anything of value we can use for God's glory. The widow's offering teaches us that the size of the gift matters less than the heart behind it.

A Spirit of Generosity: True stewardship comes from grateful hearts. When we realize how much God has given us, sharing becomes joy, not burden. We discover we cannot out-give God - the more we give, the more room we make for His blessings. This isn't about giving until it hurts, but giving until it feels good - until we experience the joy of aligning our lives with God's purposes.

Everything is Gift: If everything we have is a gift from God, then everything can become a gift again - offered back to Him and shared with others in love. This transforms stewardship from obligation into opportunity. We don't give because we have to, but because we get to.

Moving Forward: Pray about how God is calling you to be a better steward. Maybe it's increasing your giving, volunteering for ministry, or being more intentional with your time. Let your response flow from gratitude for all you've received.

My Prayer for Us: I pray that each of us will discover the joy of generous living. When we hold our time, talents, and treasure loosely, we find freedom. When we give with grateful hearts, we become the people God created us to be. Everything we have is indeed a gift from God. Let us give as we have received - with grateful hearts and generous spirits.

God bless you,

Fr. John Murphy
Pastor

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