We are the Hands of Christ

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "We are the Hands of Christ"

Transcription

1 Fall, 2005 Financial Stewardship Renewal Packet We are the Hands of Christ Office of Parish Stewardship Diocese of Rockville Centre 1

2 Office of Parish Stewardship Diocese of Rockville Centre To Contact Us: By Phone: (516) x3 By Fax: (516) By On the Web: Our Address: West Centennial Avenue Suite 202 Roosevelt, NY OUR OFFICE STAFF: Georgena McCandless Laurie Whitfield Program Services Coordinator Associate Director 2

3 Table of Contents Components of the Financial Renewal Process 4 Support Pieces Available from Our Office 4 Notes Guidelines and Samples 5 About Your Plan 5 The Letters for Parishioners (General Notes) 5 The Spiritual Brochure 6 The Commitment Card 6 The Posters 6 The Three Separate Bulletin Inserts 7 The Thank You Letter or Cards 7 The Stewardship Prayer Cards 7 Letters 8 The First Parish Mailing 8 The Second Parish Mailing 9 The Thank You Card/Letter 10 The Follow-Up Letter 11 The Stay-the-Same Letter 12 The Quarterly Report Thanks You Letter 13 The Letter to Accompany the Annual Report of Parish Life 14 Lay Witness Talks 15 General Information 15 Invitation to Potential Speakers 16 So, You ve Been Asked (handout) 17 4 Steps to a Witness Talk (handout) 18 Renewal Resources Explanation 19 Special General Intercessions 19 Special Bulletin Announcements 19 Special Pulpit Announcements 20 Samples for: Preliminary Weekend 20 Awareness Weekend 21 Accountability Weekend 21 Commitment Weekend 22 Follow-Up Weekend 22 Weekend After the Renewal 23 Stewardship Graphics 23 Calendar and Action Plan 24 Renewal Calendar-At a Glance 25 Detailed Action Plan 28 Reporting/Accountability 33 PFI Leadership Course 34 Tenth Anniversary Stewardship Mass and Reception 35 Prayer of St. Teresa of Avila 35 Materials available on the Web 36 3

4 COMPONENTS OF THE FINANCIAL RENEWAL PROCESS Support Pieces Available from Our Office: Parishioner Materials available in MS Publisher and Adobe.PDF Files (for you to print): Spiritual Brochure Template (in English or in Spanish). Introduces the theme We are the Hands of Christ and invites initial reflection for the renewal process. Commitment Card Templates (in English or in Spanish, five versions from which to choose, including several of the Take-A-Step Planning Guides). A tool for planning a response to the financial stewardship reflection. Includes the Commitment Card for Commitment Weekend. Three Separate Bulletin Insert Templates (in English or in Spanish, two sizes from which to choose). Each designed for the corresponding weekend of the renewal process. Offers a progressive opportunity for parishioners to journey through the renewal. Thank You Card Templates (in English or in Spanish). For those who do not wish to use the pre-printed Thank You cards or the personalized computer-generated Thank You Letters. Parishioner Materials available from our Office in quantities you desire (printed by us): Posters (in English or in Spanish). Highlights the new theme We are the Hands of Christ. Thank You Cards (in English or in Spanish). For people/families who have completed a Commitment Card. (These standard, non-personalized cards may be used in lieu of computer generated personal Thank You letters or card templates shown above). Stewardship Prayer Cards (in English; or in English one side, in Spanish the other) Three versions from which to choose. For use at weekend liturgies during the renewal and throughout the year. Renewal Materials available in this Packet and/or on the Web: Letters for Parishioners First Parish Mailing Second Parish Mailing Thank You Letter Follow-Up Letter Stay-the-Same Letter Quarterly Report Thank You Letter For Liturgy and Bulletins Special General Intercessions Special Bulletin Announcements Special Pulpit Announcements Graphics with New Theme Homily Helps for Clergy Leadership Planning Tools Annual Report of Parish Life An assortment of tools for parish leaders to help with the Renewal Letter to Accompany the Annual Report of Parish Life Sample Annual Report of Parish Life Lay Witness Talks Invitation to Potential Speakers So, You ve Been Asked... Four Steps to a Witness Talk 4 Presentation and Committee Aids An assortment of presentation materials, handouts, resource sheets, and Committee planning tools

5 NOTES, GUIDELINES AND SAMPLES About Your Plan First and foremost, YOU NEED A PLAN. Work with your stewardship committee, parish staff, and others to ensure that you have a clear, sensible plan for your Fall, 2005 financial stewardship renewal. Do what you can with what you have. Consult with our Office as a resource ( x3). Use the planning tools that we have designed specifically for you and that are available on our website (see the back outside cover of this Packet). Make choices! This year there are multiple choices and options available to you, especially regarding the parishioner materials. Know the options, make decisions! Make sure you collaborate with others and communicate your plan to all parish leadership who are involved in any part of the process (liturgy people, clergy, music directors, parish council, ministry leaders, and anyone else who may be affected or concerned). If you are amending any part of the plan that we have provided for you, it is vital that you amend all related components, aspects, and parts accordingly. Cohesiveness is a key component of the renewal process. The renewal needs to feel like what it is meant to be: a movement or journey. It s best not to pick and choose regarding proven pieces of the renewal plan. For instance, it is a mistake to decide not to have lay witness speakers. Written commitments should not be eliminated nor should formational pieces like bulletin inserts and the spiritual brochure. The Letters for Parishioners (General Notes) If you choose to mail letters by bulk rate, adjust the scheduled mailings so parishioners will receive the mailing during the appropriate week of the renewal. (For instance, make sure the First Parish Mailing is mailed out so it is received during the week AFTER Awareness weekend.) Local post offices treat the delivery of bulk mail differently. Know what yours does as a general rule and plan accordingly. All letters should be in the name of the Pastor. Some letters, as indicated on the samples, should be in the name of the Pastor and the Stewardship Coordinator/Director (or if there is none, the Stewardship Chairperson). With parishes the size of those in our diocese, it is virtually impossible to hand sign all letters. However a letter can be mass produced in black ink, and then signatures placed on it in blue ink. Check with your printing vendor about this. Some parishes in recent years have combined the first and second parish mailings for cost considerations. This requires an adaptation of the renewal plan we describe as well as care and attention so that the process and movement of the renewal is not diminished. Plan so that the renewal will still achieve the desired results that include at least these three steps that will be clearly recognized by the people: Awareness, Accountability, and Commitment. The process is important. The sample letters shown are formatted to fit on the respective page in this Update. When you actually create the letters, use standard letter formatting on your parish stationery. 5

6 The Spiritual Brochure To provide a renewed reflection and understanding of Christian stewardship in light of the current theme, We are the Hands of Christ. It is designed to challenge people and invite them to move further along the journey of faith. The brochure is to be included in the first parish mailing. It can also be used as a tool that leads to faith-sharing in small Christian communities. It is a welcome addition to the parish book rack or library. It can be given to the homebound, sick, and others for spiritual reading material. It can be used as a tool to lead to discussion and reflection for youth groups, adult faith formation, catechists, and ministry leaders. Make sure your parish prints enough of these for the first parish mailing and for any other uses. The spiritual brochures are an integral part of the desire to have a comprehensive stewardship formation plan in your parish. The Commitment Card To provide more information for reflection and a tool for action to help parishioners design a plan of response to God s generosity in their lives, especially as it relates to the sharing of finances. There are five versions from which to choose this year. Choose that which best reflects what your parish s desire is for Commitment. Ultimately, whatever dollar amount the person/family decides to share this year, we ask that half go to the parish and the other half to other charities, organizations, or institutions that are of interest or concern to the family. The Commitment Card is included in the second parish mailing as well as any follow-up mailings. It is distributed at all Masses on Commitment Weekend and Follow-Up Weekend. The response is most successful when a in-pew walk-though takes place on Commitment Weekend and Follow-Up Weekend. Some parishes choose to ritualize how the Commitment Cards are collected/brought up during liturgy on Commitment Weekend. Consult with your pastor and parish liturgy committee for some ideas or call us ( x3). The Posters These posters are designed to reflect our annual theme. They are colorful with lively pictures of people being Church. They express the joy associated with Christian stewardship. Order enough posters to be displayed in all the rooms in your parish center, your church vestibule and entrances, gathering areas, and meeting rooms. Offer the posters to your parish Catholic school for display in all the classrooms. 6

7 The Three Separate Bulletin Inserts To directly support the flow and movement of the renewal process. The respective bulletin inserts should be utilized each week of the renewal. You have choices regarding the Bulletin Inserts in terms of size. You also need to decide how you will go about printing/distributing them (transmitting them to your bulletin company, printing them yourself or by a printing vendor, or some other method). You may wish to check with your bulletin company to see what will work best for you in your parish given the two file types (MS Publisher and Adobe.PDF) that are available to you and any customization needs you might have. Customize your bulletin inserts before you print them if you d like. Use your own parish pictures, put your parish name and/or website address on them, etc. Certain of the bulletin inserts, as stand alone flyers, can be used in adult faith formation, catechesis, small Christian communities, and elsewhere in the parish. Make sure to print enough extras of those you particularly like and for which you see other uses than just in the bulletin. The bulletin inserts are an integral part of the desire to have a comprehensive stewardship formation plan in your parish. The Thank You Letters or Cards To express gratitude to any person/family in a parish who has responded to this year s invitation to make or renew commitments to financial stewardship. This should be signed by the Pastor, hand-signed if at all possible. There are several options from which to choose (computer generated Thank You letters, templates you can download from us and print yourself, or physical cards you can order from us). Decide what option you desire. Some parishes choose to include the stewardship prayer card, a holy card, or some other small gift with this mailing. This mailing is to be done in a timely fashion, within two weeks of receiving the Commitment from the person/family. Everyone who submitted a Commitment Card must receive a written Thank You. The Stewardship Prayer Cards Now in three popular versions ( A or B or C ), these cards contain a stewardship prayer that explicitly uses some of the language of stewardship spirituality. Order enough cards from us to insert in all the music books or missals in Church, to have for all parish meetings, for any parish formational gathering (catechetical, adult faith formation, etc.), and to distribute in your parish s welcome kit. Great to use as a prayer to pray with the sick, homebound, or on special occasions. 7

8 The First Parish Mailing (Monday, October 17th) To invite all registered parish families to (once again) become aware that our annual financial stewardship renewal is upon us. The included spiritual brochure provides a way to help form parishioners in the spiritual and theological principles of stewardship in a practical way. This letter should be signed by the Pastor and the Stewardship Coordinator/Director. The mailing includes the new spiritual brochure that you have printed. The mailing is to be received by the people during the week of October 17, Feel free to modify the letter to better accommodate your/your pastor s writing style. Be mindful to keep the important points that reference the renewal, theme, and spiritual brochure. The letter is available online for download at PARISH LETTERHEAD We are the Hands of Christ graphic Dear As Christian Stewards, we are called to look not only to ourselves or even only to those we see and touch and meet directly during our practice of good stewardship. We are called to be Catholic, that is, universal in our compassion, and global in our response to be servants of the whole human family. Jesus clearly states to His disciples that they must put themselves at the service of others if they wish to celebrate with Him in Heaven. How can we respond to Jesus call to serve one another? When can we declare We are the Hands of Christ? The enclosed brochure is designed to help us think and reflect on some of the ways. One way is to share our gifts through responsible Stewardship! Please take a few moments to read it as a way of preparing for this year s Stewardship renewal. Each year as a parish community, we are challenged to pray and think about God s generosity in our lives. This year, as you prepare to make or renew your financial commitment to Stewardship at (parish name), we suggest that you prayerfully consider your response in light of God s generosity to you. Next weekend, the Annual Report of Parish Life will be presented. The Report will provide a quick snapshot of the ways in which the gifts of God s people here at (parish name) are being used and shared. Our parish is blessed with many good people who share their gifts time, talent and treasure so that truly we are the hands of Christ. God bless you! Sincerely yours in Christ, Pastor Stewardship Coordinator (or Chairperson) 8

9 The Second Parish Mailing (Monday, October 24th) To invite people to enter more deeply into the spirit of this year s annual financial stewardship renewal. To send all registered parish families a Commitment Card so that all may have a tool to help reflect upon the ways they will share their God-given gifts, particularly their finances, with the parish and other charities throughout the coming year. This letter should be signed by the Pastor and the Stewardship Coordinator/Director. This mailing includes the Commitment Card of your choice that you have printed. This mailing is to be received by the people during the week of October 24, Feel free to modify the letter to better accommodate your/your pastor s writing style. Be mindful to keep the important points that reference the renewal, theme, and the Commitment Card. The letter is available online for download at PARISH LETTERHEAD Dear We are the Hands of Christ graphic Last week, we wrote to you about Jesus call to be His hands in today s world. As good stewards, we recognize that all true Stewardship moves from attitude to activity. Everything we do should be informed by a basic sense of who our God is, how God is involved in our lives and how that ought to make a difference in how we see ourselves and our world. It s time for us, both as individuals and as a faith community, to reflect on God s generosity in our lives and the ways we respond to that generosity in gratitude. It s time for us to be responsible and accountable for that which God has entrusted to our care. It s time for us to be the hands of Christ. This timely challenge calls us to action, and that action includes making a plan. The enclosed Take-a- Step Planning Guide is designed to help lead you through the planning process. Its simple chart will enable you to prayerfully consider the sharing of your financial resources in all aspects of your life at home, in the workplace, in the community, and right here in our parish. After prayer and reflection, determine if you can Take-a-Step by moving up to the next level in giving whatever that may be. Planned, proportionate giving out of a spirit of gratitude to God is key to truly making it possible for our parish community to become the hands of Christ in today s world. Whatever your decision is this year for the sharing of your financial resources, we ask that you bring your completed Commitment Card to Mass on October 29/30. As your gift is presented during Mass, we pray our most generous God continues to bless you in all aspects of your lives. God bless you! Sincerely yours in Christ, Pastor Stewardship Coordinator (or Chairperson) 9

10 The Thank You Card/Letter To express gratitude to any person/family in a parish who has responded to this year s invitation to make or renew commitments to financial stewardship. This letter/card should be signed by the Pastor alone; hand-signed if at all possible. Some parishes choose to include the stewardship prayer card, a holy card, or a small gift with this mailing. This mailing is to be done in a timely fashion, within two weeks of receiving the Commitment from the person/family. Everyone who submitted a Commitment Card must receive a written Thank You. Feel free to modify the letter or the card templates to better accommodate your/your pastor s writing style. Be mindful to reference the renewal and this year s theme. This year, there are new options for saying, Thank You to those who completed Commitment Cards. 1. You can send personalized letters produced in MS Word and mail merged (we provide the MS Word file to you). 2. You can send cards you print using the templates we have for you. (We ve produced this template in MS Publisher format and Adobe.PDF file. Both require sufficient cardstock, such as Avery 5315 note cards or even plain cardstock can be cut in half after they are printed.) 3. You can send standard Thank You Cards we print for you (make sure you order them from us). The letter is available online for download at PARISH LETTERHEAD We are the Hands of Christ graphic Dear The prayer of St. Francis says, It is in giving that we receive. How like a good steward to recognize that good things are for sharing! On behalf of our parish, I want to thank you for completing a Take-a-Step Commitment Card this year. Such generous and joyful giving of financial resources is indicative of the way our parish has embraced Stewardship. With each renewal of our commitment to the practice of stewardship, we strengthen our ties to each other as a parish and demonstrate to the wider community the depth of our faith. Together, we become the hands of Christ as we seek to use not only our hands, but our whole selves while we continue to help build God s kingdom. Faithfully yours, Pastor 10

11 The Follow-Up Letter To follow-up with those in the parish who have not completed a Commitment Card this year (or in recent years should you decide not to use the Stay-the-Same letter on the following page). This letter should be from the Pastor alone. It should include another Commitment Card. This letter should go out the week of November 7, 2005 (towards the end). This letter ideally is used as a complement to the Stay-the-Same letter on the following page. The letter is available online for download at Dear PARISH LETTERHEAD We are the Hands of Christ graphic Our parish is in the final days of the annual renewal of financial stewardship. During the last few weeks, we have reflected upon the gifts and blessings God has given each one of us. We have also considered what our baptismal call to service means as together we strive to become the hands of Christ. The spirituality of stewardship calls us to be of service to others out of gratitude to our most generous God for all that God has given us. This year s theme We are the Hands of Christ echoes that each of us is called not only to use our hands but our whole selves in bringing Christ to others. Please review the enclosed Take-a-Step Planning Guide and Commitment Card. I would like to invite you to reflect on how you may wish to share your resources with your parish and other charities of your choice this coming year. Whatever you decide, I would like to thank you for your past commitment and for being a part of this parish family. The sharing of your financial resources in love and service will revitalize our stewardship effort. By endorsing a spirituality that is genuine, honest and alive you reinvigorate a personal discipleship that acknowledges, we are the hands of Christ. Yours in Christ, Pastor 11

12 The Stay-the-Same Letter This letter is a follow-up to anyone in the parish who HAS NOT returned a Commitment Card this year, but DID RETURN ONE last year. This letter should be from the Pastor alone. It should include another Commitment Card. This letter should go out the week of November 7, 2005 (towards the end). This letter is ideally used as a complement to the Follow-Up Letter on the previous page. The letter is available online for download at PARISH LETTERHEAD We are the Hands of Christ graphic Dear Our parish is in the final days of the annual renewal of financial stewardship. During the last few weeks, we have reflected upon the gifts and blessings God has given each one of us. We have also considered what our baptismal call to service means as together we strive to become the hands of Christ. The spirituality of stewardship calls us to be of service to others out of gratitude to our most generous God for all that God has given us. This year s theme We are the Hands of Christ echoes that each of us is called not only to use our hands but our whole selves in bringing Christ to others. Our records indicate that your commitment to financial stewardship in our parish during the last financial renewal was $ per week. Since we have not yet heard from you this year, we will enter this amount in our records for the coming year. I have enclosed another Take-a-Step Planning Guide and Commitment Card should you wish to consider a different level of support. Whatever you decide, I would like to thank you for your past commitment and for being a part of this parish family. The sharing of your financial resources in love and service will revitalize our stewardship effort. By endorsing a spirituality that is genuine, honest and alive you reinvigorate a personal discipleship that acknowledges, we are the hands of Christ. Yours in Christ, Pastor 12

13 The Quarterly Report Thank You Letter The purpose of this letter is to acknowledge the shared gifts of parishioners, affirm them in that sharing, and help them see where they stand in terms of the Commitment to financial stewardship they have made this year. It also serves as a wonderful tool for accountability, both from the parishioner s perspective, and from the parish being accountable to people by keeping good records. Ideally, the letter should include a ministry story that would highlight a particular way the parish is serving others in a new way. This letter should be from the Pastor alone. It cannot be stressed enough that people need to be acknowledged for the gifts they share. The most effective ways to develop and sustain trust in the relationship between your parish staff and the people includes thanking them often and being responsible and accountable for the ways the gifts of the community are being used. This letter helps make this happen. This kind of letter is a periodic letter sent three times per year (end of March, end of June, and the end of September). (A final letter/report would be the standard letter most parishes send that covers the end of December - full year - for tax purposes.) Some people may lose track of what they have given so far. This letter will help them stay on track. If your parish uses PDS, our Office can help you get the data you ll need from your database to create the letter. The letter is available online for download at PARISH LETTERHEAD Dear Mr. And Mrs. John Smith, Parishes practicing Stewardship as a Way of Life have received many blessings. I want to thank you for including our parish in your response to God s generosity in your life. As part of your financial stewardship plan this year, you committed to sharing $15.00 per week. This contributes to the gospel-centered mission and vision of St. Monica s parish that takes place in the many ministries and services in which we together offer and participate. To date this year, your donations total $ or an average of $15.00 per week. In prayer, I give thanks to God for your generosity. Your recognition of the value of Stewardship as our gospel way of living continues to enrich the spiritual growth within our parish. Peace be with you, Pastor Your First Quarterly Report of Donations to St. Vincent Parish January 1 to March 31, 2006 Here s just one way your generous gift is being shared with others in our parish: Due to the generosity of people like you, our parish was recently able to expand our parish outreach ministry and our youth group. We now have ample space in our parish center for the wonderful new food pantry. The new waiting area helps to provide an atmosphere that maintains the dignity of those who come to us for assistance. Also, because of the increased financial stewardship of our people, this year we were able to hire John Doe as our first parish youth minister. John has already begun to expand our parish youth ministry effort and reach out to parish youth. We are so blessed by the shared gifts of people like you so that we may help further the Kingdom of God here in our parish. 13

14 The Letter to Accompany the Annual Report of Parish Life This letter is a sample of that which should accompany your Annual Report of Parish Life. The letter could be an insert into your report, or could actually be part of the report (first page, or inside front cover). Over the years, parishes have done this in different ways. The letter should be signed by the Pastor, and if it s desired, the parish stewardship coordinator/ director. Dear Parishioners, PARISH LETTERHEAD We are the Hands of Christ graphic We are a parish community truly blessed by so many people sharing their gifts to help build God s kingdom! Through our common prayer and worship, our sacramental life, and a variety of ministries of love and service, we are better able to respond to the call of Jesus to Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations. (Matthew 28:19) This Annual Report of Parish Life has been prepared for you so you may see some of the highlights of the shared gifts of this community. It is exciting to witness the numerous ways God s people here in parish share their resources with others! Our parish is now in the middle of our annual financial stewardship renewal. We continue to reflect upon God s gifts in our lives and the challenge to develop, use and share those gifts with others. As we move to the end of our renewal, it is my fervent prayer that each parish family will seriously pray over and reflect upon how financial resources are shared here in the parish. We are a people on a journey and we believe God has provided us with all we need to get where we need to go. As we endeavor to become the Hands of Christ, reaching out to our parish community as well as the larger world around us, I pray that all of us enter into the spirit of this year s stewardship renewal and respond appropriately to God s generosity in our lives! Faithfully yours in Christ, Pastor Annual Report of Parish Life The purpose of this report is to provide one kind of accountability in a snapshot format to our parishioners for the ways in which shared gifts in the community are used and distributed. The report is not a detailed financial report. It does, however, provide a snapshot of parish finances in the last year. And, it is not just a financial report, but should reflect a whole picture of the life of the parish, including parish ministries. The more creative and visually stimulating the report is, the better. For a sample of a very basic report that any parish can do and a more visually pleasing and advanced report, see or call our Office for a samples packet. For parishioners who desire it, there should be a very detailed, precise financial report produced by the Finance Committee, as part of the need for extensive parish accountability. That is above the scope of the kind of Annual Report we mean when it comes to our annual stewardship renewal. 14

15 Lay Witness Talks (General Information) Key to the renewal process are witness talks from members of the parish who have struggled to respond to God s call in their lives, accepted the challenge, and entered into the ongoing conversion process of living as Christians. Lay Witness talks are never requests for money or for volunteers. Those are different kinds of talks on different occasions and are inappropriate during stewardship renewals. Some parishes, because of the notable effectiveness of Witness Talks and the belief of parish leadership in their essential value, schedule the talks for more than one weekend during the renewal. Whatever your parish decides, make sure to include Lay Witness Talks before the inpew Commitment process takes place (usually the second or third weekend of the renewal). Lay witness talks are to take place at Mass within established liturgical norms. The Diocesan guidelines appear in the Homily Helps the clergy will receive. Lay witness training and/or preparation is important. If you need ideas for this, call us. For more Lay Witness resource sheets and sample talks, visit our website: The following are important to note when utilizing Witness Talks in the parish for financial stewardship renewal periods: Inviting Potential Speakers: People who have had some level of conversion regarding Stewardship. People who give effective witness to their use of financial resources. Overview of Purpose and Nature of Talk: Includes reference to this year s theme We are the Hands of Christ. To tell personal stories of how the Witness Speaker responds to Jesus call by returning gifts to the Lord. To consider a reflection on a major theme of the readings for the particular Sunday the talk will be made. Follow the Big Four Questions: I first heard about stewardship when My reaction to Stewardship was What changed my mind was Stewardship has benefited my life by Training (preferably as a Group): Familiarity with principles of the U.S. Bishops Pastoral on Stewardship. Familiarity with the designated Sunday s scripture. Use of Fr. Bill Hanson s Witness Training Guide and Video (available from our Office). Reflection on: Baptismal Call. Stewardship as a way of life. Sharing financial gifts. Practice Presentations (and friendly Group Critique): Preferably, in the space where the talk will be given. Using the actual audio equipment that will be available. Duration of talk should be no longer than five minutes. 15

16 Lay Witness Talks (Invitations to Potential Speakers) This letter is used as an invitation from the Pastor to someone who is a potential lay witness speaker for this year s annual renewal. Some parishes use a similar letter, not as an invitation from the Pastor, but as a nomination from someone who is known well by the nominee. If the letter is an invitation, it should be from the Pastor. If it is a nomination, it could be from someone the person knows who has nominated him/her. Sometimes, a parish has difficulty securing adult witness speakers. Some have found it to be quite exciting and fresh to have young people (teenagers and young adults) give the witness talks during stewardship renewals. There is an accompanying sheet entitled, So, you ve been asked to present a lay witness talk at the Parish and another, 4 Steps to a Witness Talk that many parishes have found helpful. They are reproduced for you on the following pages and are also available on our website at Dear, (personalized) PARISH LETTERHEAD We are the Hands of Christ graphic I believe you are someone who tries to live your life as a Christian steward. You join with other stewards who endeavor to be the Hands of Christ in our parish when you recognize, nurture, and share what God has given you with others. By doing this, you help bring us further along to the establishment of God s kingdom. Our parish will soon enter into the annual Financial Stewardship renewal process. Integral to this process is what we call a Witness Talk. I would like you to consider telling your story of responding to God s generosity in your life. The witness talks will take place on the weekends of October 22/23 and October 29/30. You may be saying, Why would you want to pick me? Well, I truly believe that you have a story of giftedness to share! You can be an example to help inspire others in our parish so that they too will reflect and pray about sharing financial resources with the parish and other charities and organizations. (And you can even read your presentation from your notes but we can talk more about that!) Think and pray about this invitation. For your information, I am holding (or, our eg. Pastoral Associate is holding) a 90 minute information and training session on Tuesday Evening, October 4th, from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. or on Wednesday morning, October 5th from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. There, all the details will be laid out and everyone s mind will be put at ease! I ll be calling you (or will be calling you) shortly about this invitation. Whatever you decide to do, I wish to thank you for the gifts you share with our parish community. Your decision to use and share all that God has given you bears witness to your belief that We are the Hands of Christ, and continues to inspire me as Pastor. Sincerely yours in Christ, Pastor 16

17 So, You ve Been Asked to Present A Lay Witness Talk at the Parish It s because the Pastor recognizes something in you that is a tremendous gift - your willingness to try and live out the commitment you have to Jesus Christ and the Catholic Faith! It s also because you are someone whose life has been a witness to what Christian stewardship and discipleship are all about! You express a gratitude to God for the great gifts you have received, and you are willing to share your gifts with others! You have made a decision to be a giver! In a word, you are someone who tries to live the faith on a daily basis in concrete ways! What is a Lay Witness Talk, Anyway? It s a story of commitment...a story of conversion shared with other people that helps them relate to the message of Jesus. It s an ordinary story. It s very much like what the early Christians did to help evangelize others. It s a story BY real people living regular lives FOR real people living regular lives. The Lay Witness Talks take place during one or two of the weekends during our Stewardship Renewal. Your talk would be at one of our weekend Masses at that time. Well...What Would You Have To Do? First and foremost, think and pray about how God may be calling you to this task. Then, read and reflect upon the questions on the reverse side of this sheet. The next step would be to attend the information meeting we have scheduled for this purpose as outlined in the invitation. And Then...We ll Take It From There! 17

18 4 Steps to a Witness Talk 1. I first heard about stewardship when This recalls the background and situation of a person which leads them up to the next step of conversion. 2. My reaction was By describing a negative reaction, the listeners can relate to their own weak spots, and focus on the place where a breakthrough is needed. 3. What changed my mind was By describing the story details surrounding his or her own breakthrough, the listener can get as close as possible to feeling and being moved by the power of transformation in the speaker s life story. 4. It has benefited my life by By describing the positive results, though mysteriously arrived at, the listener gets a glimpse of life on the other side of the breakthrough. This brings hope, as well as the thrill of a change. Special thanks to Fr. Bill Hanson for the above outline explanation. A Witness Talk is NOT A plea for people to give more money. A plea for people to get more involved. A Witness Talk IS A story of real life faith by real life people! An opportunity to evangelize! 18

19 Special General Intercessions To foster a complete and holistic approach to stewardship renewals and to make necessary liturgical connections. The general intercessions we provide follow a format that may differ from that which is used in your parish. Simply adapt the content of each to your parish s own standard for general intercessions. Find out how, in your parish system, one goes about placing special general intercessions for each weekend liturgy (e.g. through the liturgy committee, the pastor, the rectory secretary, etc.). Then request these enough in advance to be placed for the respective weekends. There is one special general intercession before the four weekends of renewal and another for after the four weekends of renewal, making a total of six special intercessions. When appropriate, some parishes choose to include, in addition to the special renewal general intercessions, the regular general intercession for stewardship that appears in each week s fax from our Office. It is possible that your parish has adapted our model for financial stewardship renewal, which would make some of the verbiage in our general intercessions incorrect. Rework each intercession to reflect what is actually going on in your parish for the renewal. Special Bulletin Announcements To reinforce all that is going on in other printed materials, the liturgy, and the homilies during this Fall s stewardship renewal. Each of the bulletin announcements should include the stewardship logo and/or one of this year s theme graphics: We are the Hands of Christ. Check the back cover of this Update and download your selections at Find out how, in your parish system, one goes about placing items for the bulletin. There are time constraints that differ from parish to parish. Typically, all matters for the bulletin are due into the parish office at least one week before the scheduled bulletin insertion date. It is possible that your parish has adapted our model for financial stewardship renewal, which would make some of the verbiage in our special bulletin announcements incorrect. Rework each announcement to reflect what is actually going on in your parish for the renewal. There is one special bulletin announcement before the four weekends of renewal and another for after the four weekends of renewal, making a total of six bulletin announcements. These special bulletin announcements are not meant to replace the bulletin reflections that we send out in our weekly fax. 19

20 Special Pulpit Announcements To reinforce all that is going on in other printed materials, the liturgy, and the homilies during this Fall s stewardship renewal. Find out how, in your parish system, one goes about placing pulpit announcements. There are time constraints that differ from parish to parish. It is possible that your parish has adapted our model for financial stewardship renewal, which would make some of the verbiage in our special pulpit announcements incorrect. Rework each announcement to reflect what is actually going on in your parish for the renewal. There is one special pulpit announcement before the four weekends of renewal and another for after the four weekends of renewal, making a total of six pulpit announcements. The location of pulpit announcements in weekend liturgies varies from parish to parish, with most parishes doing the pulpit announcements after the Prayer After Communion. The announcements we provide are written with that placement in mind. You may need to change the verbiage in these pulpit announcements depending upon where your parish has placed the pulpit announcements, or other items included in the renewal, such as the completion of in-pew Commitments and Lay Witness Talks. Interesting Note: The repetition that exists in the bulletin/pulpit announcements and, to a lesser degree, in the general intercessions is by design. They used to say it takes people seven times to integrate a message into their minds. Now, it is said it takes eleven or more times, because of the fast rate of information exchange in our society! Samples for the Weekends of Financial Renewal Preliminary Weekend October 8/9 Although the actual four weekends of Renewal do not actually begin until next week, use the following preparatory materials for this weekend: GENERAL INTERCESSION: That as conscious stewards, we may prepare ourselves for our upcoming stewardship renewal with joy and thanksgiving, we pray to the Lord BULLETIN AND PULPIT ANNOUNCEMENT (Place in Bulletin AND Announce at Mass): STEWARDSHIP RENEWAL IS ON ITS WAY! Next week, we begin our time of renewal for financial stewardship. Let us pray for all people in our parish as we reflect together on God s generosity in our lives, and our response to that generosity. 20

21 Awareness Weekend October 15/16 GENERAL INTERCESSION: That as aware stewards, we will reflect upon what it means to be the hands of Christ as we begin this Fall s stewardship renewal, we pray to the Lord BULLETIN AND PULPIT ANNOUNCEMENT (Place in Bulletin AND Announce at Mass): OUR GOD IS A MOST GENEROUS GOD! This week you will receive a special mailing from our pastor designed to help you reflect on God s generosity in your life and what it means to be the hands of Christ. Please look for it in the mail and try to take the time to read it before next weekend. And, next week at all Masses we will look at just some of the ways we as a parish community are the hands of Christ when we share God's many gifts. Fr. will present the Annual Report of Parish Life. As stewards, as the hands of Christ, we share in the building of God's kingdom! Accountability Weekend October 22/23 GENERAL INTERCESSION: That as accountable stewards, we may use all of our God-given gifts more responsibly to help build God s kingdom, we pray to the Lord BULLETIN AND PULPIT ANNOUNCEMENT (Place in Bulletin AND Announce at Mass): WE ARE ACCOUNTABLE AS WE SHARE OUR GIFTS! Please take home your copy of our Annual Report of Parish Life. We are very grateful for your generosity in sharing your gifts here in our parish family. As the hands of Christ, we are all called to be responsible and accountable for the many gifts our most generous God has entrusted to each one of us. This week you will receive a letter in the mail from our pastor along with a Commitment Card that will assist you as you reflect upon the ways you may wish to make or renew a commitment to sharing your financial gifts with others, including our parish community. Please look for it in the mail, and bring it with you to Mass next weekend. 21

22 Commitment Weekend October 29/30 GENERAL INTERCESSION: That as committed stewards, we will respond to the challenge to be the hands of Christ, we pray to the Lord BULLETIN AND PULPIT ANNOUNCEMENT (Place in Bulletin AND Announce at Mass): WE ARE THE HANDS OF CHRIST Stewardship is a way of life. When we respond to God s generosity in our lives with gratitude by using and sharing our gifts, we are helping to build God s kingdom we are being the hands of Christ. Thank you for responding to God s generosity in your life and sharing in the mission of Jesus by sharing your gifts with our parish and with other charities and organizations this year. Follow-Up Weekend November 5/6 GENERAL INTERCESSION: That as the hands of Christ, we may have the perseverance to follow Jesus and his teachings in all aspects of our lives, we pray to the Lord BULLETIN AND PULPIT ANNOUNCEMENT (Place in Bulletin AND Announce at Mass): WE ARE THE HANDS OF CHRIST Stewardship is a way of life. God has gifted each and every one of us. Thank you for responding to God s generosity in your life and sharing in the mission of Jesus. As the hands of Christ and stewards of God's gifts we: Receive the gifts of God with gratitude; Cultivate them responsibly; Share them lovingly in justice with others, and; Stand before the Lord in a spirit of accountability. 22

23 Weekend After the Renewal November 12/13 GENERAL INTERCESSION: That all of us as Christian stewards may live a life that gives witness to the fact that we are the hands of Christ, we pray to the Lord BULLETIN AND PULPIT ANNOUNCEMENT (Place in Bulletin AND Announce at Mass): THANKS BE TO GOD! Thank you for entering into the spirit of stewardship renewal these past few weeks! You know, everything we have is gift from God. And, as disciples, we are called to be the hands of Christ! Thank you for making or renewing your commitment to share your gifts at home, in the workplace, in the community, and right here in our parish! If you haven t yet made this year s Commitment, please do so today. Stewardship Graphics To help communicate our annual theme and to provide visual recognition so that the language and the practice of stewardship becomes a recognizable part of Christian life. These graphics should be included in all your parish communications. These and more graphics are available for download at 23

24 CALENDAR and ACTION PLAN The Plan These pages contain the recommended Calendar and Plan for this Fall s Financial Stewardship Renewal. A Detailed Action Plan follows. PLEASE READ THROUGH THE ENTIRE PLAN BEFORE YOU START THE RENEWAL PROCESS to get an overview of how each part fits. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3: Stewardship 10th Anniversary Mass and Reception SATURDAY/SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15/16 Stewardship Awareness Weekend (Bulletin Insert 1) MONDAY, OCTOBER 17: First Parish Mailing (Spiritual Brochure and Letter) SATURDAY/SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22/23 (Mission Sunday): Accountability Weekend (Annual Report of Parish Life, Bulletin Insert 2, possible Lay Witness Talk in addition to Commitment Weekend) MONDAY, OCTOBER 24: Second Parish Mailing (Letter, Commitment Card, and if possible, Annual Report of Parish Life) SATURDAY/SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29/30: Commitment Weekend (In Pew Commitments Commitment Cards, Lay Witness Talk, Bulletin Insert 3) SATURDAY/SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5/6: Follow-Up Weekend (At Mass and in other ways. Acknowledgements, Follow-up Letters, etc.) 24

25 You may need to make adjustments to the Detailed Action Plan that is provided on the following pages because of variations and modifications unique to your parish. However, five key pieces should remain: Stewardship Homilies Lay Witness Talks Presentation of the Annual Report of Parish Life Take-A-Step Commitment Walk-Through Public Commitments (For Level 1 Parishes) Renewal Calendar - At A Glance * DATE DAY DESCRIPTION December 3 Saturday Stewardship 10th Anniversary Mass and Reception Please R.S.V.P. by phone at x3 or online at on or before Friday, November 18th. September 18 September 26 October 2 or October 9 The week of 1) Prepare format, gather data, and decide who will produce and present the Annual Report of Parish Life for Accountability Weekend (Oct. 22/23). 2) Invite and select Lay Witness Speakers and schedule an information/training night for the weeks of Oct. 2 or Oct. 9. Inform speakers of the chosen date. 3) Prepare with liturgy committee/pastor/music ministry appropriate music selections for each liturgy during the renewal weekends. Monday 1) Decisions need to be made as to how and which of the options for parishioner materials (brochures, bulletin inserts, Commitment Forms, etc.) will be used. 2) Materials the parish should print/get printed for parishioners are available on our Office s site this week. 3) Parishes will be mailed material order forms this week to order Posters, Prayer Cards, and, if necessary, Thank You Cards. 4) Make up your parishioner material printing schedule (consult with whomever is printing your materials for you). Sometime during these two weeks 1) Conduct Lay Witness information/training night. October 2 The week of 1) See that all parish clergy (priests and deacons) have received a copy of the Homiletic helps for the four renewal weekends. 2) Place Special Bulletin Announcement for Oct. 8/9. 3) Place Special General Intercession for Oct. 8/9. 4) Place Special Pulpit Announcement for Oct. 8/9. 5) Invite people who can assist with mailings, putting inserts in bulletins, arranging the pews during Accountability and Commitment Weekends, etc. 25

26 DATE DAY DESCRIPTION October 9 The week of 1) Verify that the materials you ordered from us are received. 2) Verify that all other printed materials are complete/taken care of (e.g. Annual Report of Parish Life, bulletin inserts, spiritual brochure, Take-A-Step, Commitment Forms, Thank You s etc.). Prepare for Awareness Weekend: 1) Place Bulletin Announcement for Oct. 15/16. 2) Place General Intercession for Oct. 15/16. 3) Place Pulpit Announcement for Oct. 15/16. 4) Replace or Add Stewardship Prayer in hymnals to be ready for Awareness Weekend (Oct. 15/16). October 14 Friday 1) Stuff Bulletin insert #1 if necessary. October 15/16 Awareness Weekend 1) Reference the fact that the Stewardship Renewal Process has begun in Homily (use homiletic helps provided by our Office). 2) Pray the Stewardship Prayer. October 16 The week of Prepare for Accountability Weekend: 1) Place Bulletin Announcement for Oct. 22/23. 2) Place General Intercession for Oct. 22/23. 3) Place Pulpit Announcement for Oct. 22/23. 4) Finalize Annual Report of Parish Life. 5) People to straighten and re-supply pews with Annual Report of Parish Life. October 17 Monday First Parish Mailing including Spiritual Brochure and Letter. October 21 Friday 1) Stuff Bulletin Insert #2 if necessary. 2) Check that you received Fax sent by our Office containing the In-Pew Commitment Script for use on October 29/30. October 22/23 Accountability Weekend (Mission Sunday) Calendar (cont d)* 1) Pastor presents overview/review of Annual Report of Parish Life. 2) Reference the Stewardship Renewal Process in Homily (use homiletic helps provided by this Office). 3) Pray the Stewardship Prayer. 4) Lay Witness Presentation depending upon the parish s plan that considers liturgical placement of talks. October 23 The week of Prepare for Commitment Weekend: 1) Place Bulletin Announcement for Oct. 29/30. 2) Place General Intercession for Oct. 29/30. 3) Place Pulpit Announcement Oct. 29/30. 4) Review script with presenter for In-Pew Commitment walkthough. 5) People to straighten and re-supply pews with Commitment Forms, pencils (and envelopes, if desired). October 24 Monday Second Parish Mailing, including Letter, Take-A-Step and/or Commitment Card, and possibly Annual Report of Parish Life. October 28 Friday 1) Stuff Bulletin Insert #3 if necessary. 26

27 DATE DAY DESCRIPTION October 29/30 Commitment Weekend 1) Reference to the Stewardship Renewal Process Commitment Weekend - in Homily (use homiletic helps provided by this Office). 2) Lay Witness Presentation depending upon the parish s plan that considers liturgical placement of talks. 3) In-Pew Commitment Walk-Through. 4) First request for Commitment Cards via collection. 5) Pray the Stewardship Prayer. October 30 The week of 1) Begin Data Entry of Commitment Cards. Prepare for Follow-Up Weekend: 1) Place Bulletin Announcement for Nov. 5/6. 2) Place General Intercession for Nov. 5/6. 3) Place Pulpit Announcement Nov. 5/6. 4) Review script with presenter for In-Pew Commitment walkthough. 5) People to straighten and re-supply pews with Commitment Forms, pencils (and envelopes, if desired). November 5/6 Follow-Up Weekend 1) Reference to the Stewardship Renewal Process in Homily (use homiletic helps provided by this Office). 2) Lay Witness Presentation (if desired). 3) In-Pew Commitment Walk-Through. 4) Second request for commitment cards via collection. 5) Pray the Stewardship Prayer. November 6 The week of 1) Thank-You mailing (letters or cards). 2) Follow-up mailing. 3) Stay-the-Same letters. 4) Optional Telephone Follow-Up begins. Packet available from our Office. November 6 through January 1, 2006 Calendar (cont d)* Report in Bulletin the status of Financial Stewardship Commitments returned this renewal period. March 31, 2006 Quarterly First mailing in 2006 of quarterly letter to all parishioners thanking them for their regular Sunday offertory donations (yearto-date) and showing them how well they are doing toward their committed amount. * This is just an overview please review the detailed outline listed on the following Don t Forget! You Need a Plan for FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP Follow-Up! 27

28 DETAILED ACTION PLAN The following is a detailed action plan for the Fall, 2005 process. It assumes that you are following the components of the plan laid out for parishes in the diocese, which includes a four weekend renewal process. Your parish may need to adjust this plan appropriately, based upon pastoral decisions that are made related to Financial Stewardship Renewal this Fall. Whatever your plan is, it is strongly recommended that it contain these five aspects, preferably over a four (or at least a three) weekend process: 1. Stewardship Homilies. 2. Lay Witness Talks. 3. Presentation of Annual Report of Parish Life. 4. Take-A-Step Commitment Walk-Through. 5. Public Commitments for Level 1 Parishes. Note about Homily Helps: We will mail homily helps to all parish priests and deacons in our database during the week of October 2, They cover the four weekends of the Renewal according to our plan. If your parish is deviating from this plan, work with clergy so that appropriate homilies are prepared during the weekends you have scheduled for Financial Stewardship Renewal. Regardless of whether our homily helps are used or not, it is important that homilies during each of the weekends of the Renewal process connect with the Renewal. Planning/First Steps September 18, 2005 (the week of): 1) Prepare format, gather data, and decide who will produce the Annual Report of Parish Life for Accountability Weekend (Oct. 22/23). This report will include a brief overview of income and expenses, ministries/activities, and ministry stories. For samples or ideas, call our Office at (516) x3. 2) Invite and select Lay Witness Speakers and schedule an information/training night for the weeks of Oct. 2 or Oct. 9. Inform speakers of the chosen date. See sample Letter of Invitation on page 16. 3) Find out what involvement the Pastor wants to have during the four-weekend process, particularly Accountability and Commitment Weekends. It would be ideal if the Pastor is available to present the Annual Report of Parish Life and to lead the people through the In-Pew Commitment process. 4) It is suggested that the Pastor and lay witnesses address key elements of Stewardship for this season; renewal, commitment and conversion. Witnesses would also be asked to share their experiences on these elements. Ask them to speak for no more than 5 minutes (if a couple, no more than 6 minutes). See info on Lay Witness Talks (pages 15-18). Contact our Office for ideas, hand-outs, more sample talks or video. ** September 25, 2005 (the week of): AGAIN THIS FALL! 1) Download all the templates for the Fall Materials that are available to you from our Office ( 2) Order the materials you need from us that we will print for you (Prayer Cards, Posters, and optional standard, non-personalized Thank You cards). 28

29 3) Make decisions and a plan concerning the new materials available from us in computer file format which ones you will use, what options you will take, how you will customize them, and how they will get printed. October 2 or October 9, 2005 (sometime during these two weeks): 1) Conduct Lay Witness information/training night. 2) Schedule Practice Session with Witness Speakers. October 2, 2005 (the week of): 1) See that all parish clergy (priests and deacons) have received a copy of the Homiletic Helps for the four renewal weekends by the end of this week (if not, call us x3). 2) Place General Intercession, Bulletin/Pulpit Announcement for Oct. 8/9. This announcement is placed one week BEFORE the four-weekend renewal process occurs to announce its arrival! See page 20. 3) Line up people who can assist with mailings, putting inserts in bulletins, arranging the pews during Accountability, Commitment, and Follow-Up Weekends, etc. 4) Finalize all pieces of the renewal, including all the details of how you will do the mailings. 5) Plan liturgy with music minister/liturgy committee/pastor for Awareness Weekend. October 3, 2005 (Monday): The materials you ordered from us are to be shipped to the parish this week, unless there has been a delay. See the weekly fax for updates. October 9, 2005 (the week of): 1) Verify that the materials you ordered from us are received. 2) Verify that all other printed materials are complete/taken care of (e.g. Annual Report of Parish Life, bulletin inserts, spiritual brochure, Take-A-Step, Commitment Cards, Thank You s ). Four Weekend Renewal Process October 9, 2005 (the week of): Prepare for Awareness Weekend (See page 21). 1) Place Bulletin Announcement for Oct. 15/16. 2) Place General Intercession for Oct. 15/16. 3) Place Pulpit Announcement for Oct. 15/16. 4) Replace or Add Stewardship Prayer in hymnals to be ready for Awareness Weekend (Oct. 15/16). 5) Finalize presenters for all four weekends of the Financial Renewal Process (homilies, witness talks, Commitment Card walk through, etc.). October 14, 2005 (Friday): 1) Stuff Bulletin Insert #1 if you chose to have the bulletins as a separate insert. October 15/16, 2005: Awareness Weekend If all steps are followed, at all Masses this weekend, parishioners will have a sense that we are now entering a period of Stewardship Renewal, particularly Financial Stewardship Renewal. 1) Reference the fact that the Stewardship Renewal Process has begun in Homily (use homiletic helps provided by this Office). 2) Pray the Stewardship Prayer. 29

30 October 16, 2005 (the week of): Prepare for Accountability Weekend (See page 21). 1) Place Bulletin Announcement for Oct. 22/23. 2) Place General Intercession for Oct. 22/23. 3) Place Pulpit Announcement for Oct. 22/23. 4) Plan liturgy with music minister/liturgy committee for Accountability Weekend. 5) Line up people to straighten and re-supply pews with the Annual Report. The Annual Report of Parish Life is a key element in fostering Stewardship as A Way of Life in your Parish. Accountability is a very important component of Stewardship and is demonstrated this weekend. Here s how your financial support helped us accomplish our vision last year. Your report should show the impact of Time, Talent, and Treasure in the Parish in terms of: Parish Operating Budget Data on Parish Ministries Giving Pattern of the Parish Ministry Stories It is recommended that the Pastor present the Report at each Mass. October 17, 2005 (Monday): The First Parish Mailing This mailing will introduce the fact that Stewardship Renewal is upon us. It will address the theme for this year s Stewardship effort ( We are the Hands of Christ ). The First Parish Mailing includes: 1) Personalized letter from Pastor and Stewardship Committee Chair. (See page 8) 2) Include We are the Hands of Christ Spiritual Brochure. October 21, 2005 (Friday): 1) Stuff Bulletin insert #2 if you chose to have the bulletins as a separate insert. 2) Check that you received Fax sent by Parish Stewardship Office containing the In-Pew Commitment Script for use on October 29/30. This is a script that you should use to help parishioners complete the Take-A-Step Commitment Card. Of course, you can modify the script according to local tastes. Just remember, an in-pew walk-through for completing commitment cards is a most effective way to gather Commitments. October 22/23, 2005: Accountability Weekend (Mission Sunday) If all steps are followed, parishioners will recognize that this weekend is the time for us to look at an overview of how the gifts of the people in the parish are shared (through the Annual Report of Parish Life). 1) Pastor presents overview/review of the Annual Report of Parish Life, highlighting the ministries and services the parish has provided in the past year (especially any new ones) due to the generosity of people sharing and returning their gifts to the Lord. 2) Lay Witness presentations depending upon the parish s plan that considers liturgical placement of talks (see pages 15-18). 3) Reference to the Stewardship Renewal Process in Homily (use homiletic helps provided by this Office). 4) Pray the Stewardship Prayer. 5) People are needed to straighten out and re-supply the pews with the Annual Report of Parish Life. It is important that this is done after each Mass. Note: For procedures for generating the data for the Annual Report of Parish Life by using PDS call our Office (516) x3. October 23, 2005 (the week of): Prepare for Commitment Weekend (See page 22). 1) Place Bulletin Announcement for Oct. 29/30. 2) Place General Intercession for Oct. 29/30. 3) Place Pulpit Announcement Oct. 29/30. 30

31 4) Plan liturgy with music minister/liturgy committee for Commitment Weekend. 5) Review In-Pew Walk-Through of Commitments with presenter for Oct. 29/30 6) People are needed to straighten/re-supply pews with Commitment Cards, pens/pencils (& envelopes, if desired). It is recommended that the Commitment Cards be placed face up on every seat rather than stacked at the end of the pew. Over half of the Commitment Cards turned in this weekend will come from the in-pew walk-through if generous supplies are available. October 24, 2005 (Monday): The Second Parish Mailing This mailing will speak about our theme and it will ask people to reflect and pray about making or renewing a commitment to financial stewardship for this year out of gratitude for all that God has given them. The Second Parish Mailing includes: 1) Personalized letter from Pastor and Stewardship Committee Chair. (See page 9) 2) Include a Commitment Card. If possible, it has been proven more effective if you attach a mailing label for each family to the Commitment Card, so as to facilitate its completion. 3) Copy of the Annual Report of Parish Life (optional - some parishes will choose to distribute the Report only at Mass on Accountability Weekend, or in commitment followup mailings). October 28, 2005 (Friday) 1) Stuff Bulletin Insert #3 if you chose to have the bulletins as a separate insert. October 29/30, 2005: Commitment Weekend If all steps are followed, parishioners will have a sense that this weekend is the time when we, as individuals in a parish community, will think, pray, and reflect upon our Finances and make a decision to Take-A-Step and to make a commitment, if at all possible. 1) Reference to the Stewardship Renewal Process Commitment Weekend - in Homily (use homiletic helps provided by this Office). 2) Lay Witness Presentation (optional). There is no doubt that lay witnessing forms an essential component of Stewardship Renewal, provided the Witness Talk is one illustrating conversion (see pages 15-18). 3) In-Pew Commitment Walk-Through. This is the best way to assure a maximum return of Commitment Forms. It also substantially reduces the amount of follow-up which has to be done (mailings and telephone). Nothing short of a personal home visit can make up for this sort of ask. 4) At the regular offertory collection time, invite all parishioners to place their commitment cards and Sunday envelopes in the collection basket. Or, work with your Liturgy Committee to design a more creative way of presenting the Commitment Cards during Mass. 5) People are needed to straighten/re-supply pews with Commitment Cards, pens/pencils (& envelopes, if desired). It is recommended that the Commitment Cards be placed face up on every seat rather than stacked at the end of the pew. 6) Pray the Stewardship Prayer. 31

32 Follow-Up October 30, 2005 (the week of): Prepare for Follow-Up Weekend (See page 22). 1) Begin Data Entry of Commitment Cards. 2) Place Bulletin Announcement for Nov. 5/6. 3) Place General Intercession for Nov. 5/6. 4) Place Pulpit Announcement Nov. 5/6. 5) Review script with presenter for In-Pew Commitment walk-though. 6) People to straighten and re-supply pews with Commitment Forms. November 5/6, 2005 Follow-Up Weekend: If all steps are followed, this weekend will indicate the close to our Stewardship Renewal for this season by making one more request during Mass for people to Take-A-Step. 1) Reference to the Stewardship Renewal Process in Homily. 2) Lay Witness Presentation (optional). 3) In-Pew Commitment Walk-Through (second request). 4) At the regular offertory collection time, invite all parishioners (who haven t done so already) to place their Commitment Cards and Sunday envelopes in the collection basket. 5) People are needed to straighten/re-supply pews with Commitment Cards, pens/pencils (& envelopes, if desired). It is recommended that the Commitment Cards be placed face up on every seat rather than stacked at the end of the pew. 6) Pray the Stewardship Prayer. November 6, 2005 (week of): Follow up is absolutely essential to the Renewal Process! It is absolutely critical that anyone who made a commitment is sent an acknowledgement. It is also important that those who have not yet made a commitment this year are contacted. 1) Thank-You mailing (letters or cards - see page 10). 2) Follow-up mailing (see page 11). 3) Stay the Same Letters (see page 12 - Some parishes may not have the data management capability of being able to identify who made a commitment in a prior year. Those parishes should send a Follow-Up Letter rather than a Stay-the-Same Letter). 4) Optional Telephone Follow-Up begins (a packet is available from our Office). Note: Recommendations for entering data and sending acknowledgements by using PDS are available from the Office of Parish Stewardship (516) x3. November 6, 2005, through January 1, 2006: 1) Place General Intercession, Bulletin/Pulpit Announcement for Nov. 12/13. This announcement is placed one week AFTER the four-weekend renewal process concludes to thank and affirm all those who participated! (See page 23.) 2) Report in Bulletin the status of Financial Stewardship Commitments returned this renewal period. March 31, 2006: First mailing in 2006 of quarterly letter to all parishioners thanking them for their regular Sunday offertory donations (year-to-date) and showing them how well they are doing toward their committed amount and sharing a ministry story (see page 13). 32

33 Reporting/Accountability Good reporting and responsible accountability are critical to sustaining ongoing stewardship. A continued process of communication and personal contact needs to be conducted year round. This responsibility is incumbent upon all Church leadership, including the Stewardship Committee. 1) Communicate Results of Financial Stewardship Renewal: a) Publicly and personally thank all those who have returned Take-A-Step Commitment cards. Thank you is a message that cannot be said too often to the parish family. b) Via the pulpit and the bulletin, tell your parishioners the up-to-date results so far. Include the number of commitment cards returned, and the total commitment amount in relationship to the goals you have established. Do this as creatively as possible to make it interesting and exciting. 2) Ongoing Accountability to Parishioners: a) Reminders about, and reporting of, the progress of financial gifts should be on-going throughout the year. A special section of your bulletin is good for this purpose. b) A suggested option to keep the individual parishioners reminded of their commitment is to mail to each family, about 3 or 4 times yearly, a record of donations to date. (We generally refer to these as Quarterly Thank You Letters. ) c) Let your people know of any gifts the parish has given to the poor or to charity from the regular offertory. Parishioners need to be reminded that the parish community is giving to the poor (and taking-a-step ) just as each family is asked to do. d) On a regular basis (Accountability Weekend of each Fall Financial Stewardship Renewal), report on the parish s financial and spiritual status; a brief report, including parish income and expenses, should be given to all parishioners. Include ministries and activities, with particular attention being given to new or less familiar ministries. This report is referred to as the Annual Report of Parish Life. e) Make parishioners aware that if at any time they have questions of concern about the financial situation of the parish, they may express their concern and an answer will be forthcoming. Good and proper accountability at any level is absolutely essential in order for stewardship to take root. Types of Accountability: People to God (individual accountability) People to Each Other/Community/Parish (social accountability) Church to People (corporate/organizational accountability) Our model for Financial Stewardship Renewal has built into it all three levels of accountability. 33

34 PFI S PFI STEWARDSHIP LEADERSHIP COURSE We are happy to be able to again offer this unique Stewardship Leadership Formation Course! With more than 125 people in attendance over seven years, this 35-hour course is rated as a national model and is directed toward anyone interested in learning the theology, principles and practical applications of stewardship at the parish level. During the 7 Saturdays that we will be together, topics like these will be covered: Theological & Spiritual Principles of Stewardship Change and Conversion Gift Discovery Financial Stewardship Stewardship for Children and Youth Motivating for Stewardship Gifts Celebrations Lay Witness Talks Stewardship and the Parish System All these topics (and more!) are all taught by a variety of gifted instructors. This course can be used either as a third year track for PFI or as a stand alone course. Forming & Sustaining a Stewardship Committee 34...and more! Location: St. John the Baptist High School, West Islip Dates : (7) Saturdays 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 2005: November 19 December : January 14 February 11 March 4, 18 & April 8 If you wish to register, please call Marcela at the Office of Laity and Family (516) ext 631. Registraton is required and limited. The fee for attendees from Parishes connected with the Diocesan Parish Stewardship effort for will be paid for by the Office of Parish Stewardship. (For PFI Graduates who elect to take this course as a track, the Office of Parish Stewardship will partially subsidize the total fee.) For all other registrants from parishes NOT connected with the Diocesan Parish Stewardship effort, the fee is $275 per person. Don t know if your parish is connected? Ask your Pastor, or call the Office of Parish Stewardship at (516) x3. If you have any questions about registration or need further information, please contact Marcela at (516) x631. Registration Deadline: October 28, 2005

35 You are Invited! Come and celebrate with us a special Mass and reception for the Tenth Anniversary of Stewardship in the Diocese of Rockville Centre Saturday, December 3, :00 p.m. Mass with Bishop William F. Murphy Christ the King Church, Commack Reception to follow including a visual history of stewardship in our Diocese and parish displays of their stewardship journeys Please R.S.V.P. by phone at x3 or online at on or before Friday, November 18th. Prayer of St. Teresa of Avila Christ has no body now but yours. No hands, no feet, on earth but yours. Yours are the eyes through which He looks compassion on this world. Yours are the feet with which He walks to do good. Yours are the hands with which He blesses all the world. Yours are the hands, yours are the feet. Yours are the eyes, you are His body. Christ has no body now but yours. No hands, no feet on earth but yours. Yours are the eyes, through which He looks compassion on this world. Christ has no body now on earth but yours. 35

Fall, Financial Stewardship Program Outline. Office of Parish Stewardship Diocese of Rockville Centre

Fall, Financial Stewardship Program Outline. Office of Parish Stewardship Diocese of Rockville Centre Fall, 2010 Financial Stewardship Program Outline Office of Parish Stewardship Diocese of Rockville Centre 1 Office of Parish Stewardship Diocese of Rockville Centre To Contact Us: By Phone: (516) 379-4055

More information

Spring, 2010 Time and Talent. Renewal Packet. Stewardship A Way of Life. Office of Parish Stewardship Diocese of Rockville Centre

Spring, 2010 Time and Talent. Renewal Packet. Stewardship A Way of Life. Office of Parish Stewardship Diocese of Rockville Centre Spring, 2010 Time and Talent Renewal Packet Stewardship A Way of Life Office of Parish Stewardship Diocese of Rockville Centre 1 Office of Parish Stewardship Diocese of Rockville Centre To Contact Us:

More information

RESOURCES FOR LITURGY

RESOURCES FOR LITURGY General Intercessions RESOURCES FOR LITURGY To foster a complete and holistic approach to stewardship renewals that includes the necessary liturgical connections. The special general intercessions we provide

More information

Homily Hints for Stewardship Renewal, 2017

Homily Hints for Stewardship Renewal, 2017 Homily Hints for Stewardship Renewal, 2017 We are pleased to present all deacons and priests in Stewardship parishes in our Diocese with these homiletic resources. It is our hope that these tools will

More information

Position Descriptions

Position Descriptions Effective Tools for Time and Talent Renewal Position Descriptions Ministry Directories Commitment Forms Office of Parish Stewardship Diocese of Rockville Centre, NY (516) 379-4055 x3 www.stewardshipli.org

More information

GUIDE FOR A STEWARDSHIP IMPLEMENTATION ACTION PLAN

GUIDE FOR A STEWARDSHIP IMPLEMENTATION ACTION PLAN A GUID FOR A STWARDSHIP IMPLMNTATION ACTION PLAN PRPARD BY: TH OFFIC OF STWARDSHIP & DVLOPMNT DIOCS OF PROVIDNC, RHOD ISLAND TABL OF CONTNTS W ACTION PLAN PAG XHIBIT 1 Personalized Introductory Letter

More information

2017 Appeal Parish Manual

2017 Appeal Parish Manual 2017 Appeal Parish Manual Step by-step Instructions to Implement the Appeal at your parish Disciples, Sent by the Spirit www.archsa.org/archbishops-appeal 2 Table of Contents An online copy of this manual

More information

2019 Parish Leadership Guide

2019 Parish Leadership Guide 2019 Parish Leadership Guide Catholic Services Appeal Foundation 12805 Highway 55, Suite 210 Plymouth, MN 55441 Phone: 612-294-6622 Catholic Services Appeal Foundation 019 Catholic Services Appeal Parish

More information

A GUIDE FOR THE NEW CATHOLIC CHARITY APPEAL CHAIRPERSON

A GUIDE FOR THE NEW CATHOLIC CHARITY APPEAL CHAIRPERSON A GUIDE FOR THE NEW CATHOLIC CHARITY APPEAL CHAIRPERSON 2018 Catholic Charity Appeal Diocese of Providence Celebrating our 93 rd Anniversary 1925 2018 February, 2018 Dear Friend, Thank you for accepting

More information

STEWARDSHIP. A Way of Life MONTHLY BULLETIN INSERTS. Office of Stewardship & Development. Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence

STEWARDSHIP. A Way of Life MONTHLY BULLETIN INSERTS. Office of Stewardship & Development. Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence STEWARDSHIP A Way of Life MONTHLY BULLETIN INSERTS Office of Stewardship & Development Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence www.providencediocese.org Created in collaboration with the Office of Parish

More information

Developing a Stewardship Committee

Developing a Stewardship Committee Stewardship Committee Overview The Stewardship process encourages parishioners to identify their gifts, to be grateful for these gifts, to cultivate and use them responsibly, to share them lovingly in

More information

Discernment Process for Selecting New Members of the Parish Pastoral Council. Manual for PPC Facilitators

Discernment Process for Selecting New Members of the Parish Pastoral Council. Manual for PPC Facilitators Discernment Process for Selecting New Members of the Parish Pastoral Council Manual for PPC Facilitators These instructions are written for facilitators who assist pastors, existing council members, and

More information

Fourth Synod of the Diocese of Bridgeport. Synodal Summary

Fourth Synod of the Diocese of Bridgeport. Synodal Summary Fourth Synod of the Diocese of Bridgeport Synodal Summary September 19, 2015 Introduction On Friday, September 19, 2014, Bishop Frank Caggiano signed the official decree opening the Fourth Diocesan Synod

More information

Responding Sheltering. Renewing. Visiting. Office of Parish Stewardship, Diocese of Rockville Centre, NY. Happy Advent! Stay Awake!

Responding Sheltering. Renewing. Visiting. Office of Parish Stewardship, Diocese of Rockville Centre, NY. Happy Advent! Stay Awake! Giving Feeding Praying Discovering Thanking Clothing Comforting Celebrating Caring Loving Sharing Responding Sheltering Building Inviting Praising Stewardship Renewing Visiting Forgiving Deciding Evangelizing

More information

Briefly, the chronology of events leading up to this pastoral plan are as follows:

Briefly, the chronology of events leading up to this pastoral plan are as follows: St. Thomas the Apostle, Crystal Lake With a Heart Renewed June 28, 1999 St. Thomas the Apostle Mission Statement We are a Catholic family, living our awareness of Christ s presence through worship, service,

More information

Lord, Source of All Gifts

Lord, Source of All Gifts Lord, Source of All Gifts Lord and Source of All Gifts, we, your people, rejoice in the fullness of Your generosity. We thank you for those whose lives are visible signs of your love and blessing to others.

More information

Strategies for a Successful Bishop s Appeal

Strategies for a Successful Bishop s Appeal Strategies for a Successful Bishop s Appeal www.catholicfoundationgb.org 920-272-8197 BishopsAppeal@gbdioc.org Putting the Pieces in Place For a successful campaign, the Pastor needs some help and there

More information

2014 Ambassadors for Christ

2014 Ambassadors for Christ 2014 Ambassadors for Christ Table of Contents Page Parish Timeline 1 Diocesan Priorities and Ministries 2 Preparing for Success 4 Parish Leadership 6 Pastor 6 Parish CFSA Chairperson 7 Parish CFSA Secretary

More information

ST. ANGELA MERICI CATHOLIC CHURCH ARCHDIOCESE OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON INAUGURAL PASTORAL PLAN

ST. ANGELA MERICI CATHOLIC CHURCH ARCHDIOCESE OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON INAUGURAL PASTORAL PLAN ST. ANGELA MERICI CATHOLIC CHURCH ARCHDIOCESE OF GALVESTON-HOUSTON INAUGURAL PASTORAL PLAN 2015-2016 Table of Contents I. INTRODUCTION OF THE ST. ANGELA MERICI PASTORAL PLAN..3 II. ROLE OF THE PARISHIONER...4

More information

Responding Sheltering. Renewing. Visiting. Office of Parish Stewardship, Diocese of Rockville Centre, NY. We Don t Just Do Stewardship We Live It!

Responding Sheltering. Renewing. Visiting. Office of Parish Stewardship, Diocese of Rockville Centre, NY. We Don t Just Do Stewardship We Live It! Giving Feeding Praying Discovering Thanking Clothing Comforting Celebrating Caring Loving Sharing Responding Sheltering Praising Stewardship Building Inviting Renewing Visiting Forgiving Deciding Evangelizing

More information

Engaging Parishioners. Through the Spirituality of Stewardship

Engaging Parishioners. Through the Spirituality of Stewardship Engaging Parishioners Through the Spirituality of Stewardship Thank You Father Peter Martinez and St. Paul the Apostle Parish, Clergy and YOU! Who is Hear & Why are We Here Today? Pastors, Deacons, Religious,

More information

walkwithfrancis.org #WalkwithFrancis u 2

walkwithfrancis.org #WalkwithFrancis u 2 Introduction and FAQ What is the Walk with Francis pledge? This initiative of the Archdiocese of Washington and Catholic Charities is an opportunity for you to make a commitment to follow the Pope s example

More information

Choosing a Liturgical Consultant

Choosing a Liturgical Consultant Choosing a Liturgical Consultant Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions Choosing a Liturgical Consultant An evaluation workbook to assist parishes hiring a consultant for liturgical space Liturgical

More information

Summer Revised Fall 2012 & 2013 (Revisions in italics)

Summer Revised Fall 2012 & 2013 (Revisions in italics) Long Range Plan Summer 2011 Revised Fall 2012 & 2013 (Revisions in italics) St. Raphael the Archangel Parish is a diverse community of Catholic believers called by baptism to share in the Christian mission

More information

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, The privilege and responsibility to oversee and foster the pastoral life of the Diocese of Rockville Centre belongs to me as your Bishop and chief shepherd. I share

More information

How to use the Welcoming Parish Assessment

How to use the Welcoming Parish Assessment How to use the Welcoming Parish Assessment The assessment provided offers parish leadership some concrete, practical criteria and descriptions of how a welcoming parish looks and feels. It is meant to

More information

Introducing a New Lenten Spiritual Experience for the Whole Parish

Introducing a New Lenten Spiritual Experience for the Whole Parish Introducing a New Lenten Spiritual Experience for the Whole Parish YO U R PA RISH C A N BEGIN I N LENT 2012 Look inside for more information >>> Help Your Parishioners Live Their Faith! Dear Follower of

More information

GUIDE FOR IMPLEMENTING STEWARDSHIP OF TREASURE

GUIDE FOR IMPLEMENTING STEWARDSHIP OF TREASURE A GUIDE FOR IMPLEMENTING STEWARDSHIP OF TREASURE THE OFFICE OF STEWARDSHIP & DEVELOPMENT DIOCESE OF VENICE IN FLORIDA THE PURPOSE OF IMPLEMENTING STEWARDSHIP OF TREASURE A national survey of Roman Catholics

More information

Preliminary Recommendations Holy Trinity & St. Michael Parishes January 2018

Preliminary Recommendations Holy Trinity & St. Michael Parishes January 2018 To: Fr. Kornath and Parish Leadership From: Barbara Vite, Archdiocesan Director of Parish Stewardship Preliminary Recommendations Holy Trinity & St. Michael Parishes January 2018 Note*: The parish has

More information

Loving To Our Neighbor Bishop s Annual Telephone Follow-up Manual. Bishop s Annual Appeal Follow-up Process

Loving To Our Neighbor Bishop s Annual Telephone Follow-up Manual. Bishop s Annual Appeal Follow-up Process Faithful To God, Loving To Our Neighbor Bishop s Annual Appeal @ 2013 Telephone Follow-up Manual Bishop s Annual Appeal Follow-up Process INTRODUCTION On behalf of Bishop Frederick Campbell and the Office

More information

2018 In-Pew Weekend Liturgy Aid

2018 In-Pew Weekend Liturgy Aid 2018 In-Pew Weekend Liturgy Aid I n c l u d i n g t h e C e l e b r a n t s S c r i p t This Liturgy Aid, provided by email to Parishes and Music Directors, offers assistance in planning parish liturgies

More information

Annual Catholic Services Appeal How to Make or Surpass Your Parish s Goal

Annual Catholic Services Appeal How to Make or Surpass Your Parish s Goal Annual Catholic Services Appeal How to Make or Surpass Your Parish s Goal Best Practices Helpful Tips from Local Pastors Connect Your Parish to the Diocese Why Do We Have An Annual Appeal? Prior to the

More information

Guidelines for Parish Pastoral Councils Diocese of Rockford

Guidelines for Parish Pastoral Councils Diocese of Rockford Guidelines for Parish Pastoral Councils Diocese of Rockford Originally published September 23, 1999 Introductory Statement 1. Diocese of Rockford Directive 2. What is a Pastoral Council? 3. The Nature,

More information

St. Francis of Assisi, Belchertown Visitation Report April 20, 2017

St. Francis of Assisi, Belchertown Visitation Report April 20, 2017 The Bishop s Parish Visitation The purpose of a parish visitation is to help me be better aware of the situations and challenges facing the parishes within the Diocese of Springfield. It also allows me

More information

Finding Faith in Life. Online Director s Manual

Finding Faith in Life. Online Director s Manual Discover! Finding Faith in Life Online Director s Manual Discover! Finding Faith in Life Contents Welcome... 3 Program Highlights... 4 Program Components... 6 Understanding the Components...11 Key Elements

More information

Confraternity of Christian

Confraternity of Christian Confraternity of Christian Doctrine Parish Handbook Revised Edition 2007 Recruitment Strategies for Your Parish Volume 3 Published by: Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (Archdiocese of Sydney) Level

More information

PARISH PASTORAL PLAN. Mary, Star of the Sea Parish

PARISH PASTORAL PLAN. Mary, Star of the Sea Parish Mary, Star of the Sea Parish PARISH PASTORAL PLAN 2017-2021 And Jesus came up and spoke to them saying, all authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all

More information

A REPORT TO PASTORAL LEADERS IN THE ARCHDIOCESE OF BALTIMORE

A REPORT TO PASTORAL LEADERS IN THE ARCHDIOCESE OF BALTIMORE A REPORT TO PASTORAL LEADERS IN THE ARCHDIOCESE OF BALTIMORE BUILDING A CULTURE OF FORMATION God s Call and Our Response Through the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist every Christian is

More information

St. Anne Communications Guidelines

St. Anne Communications Guidelines St. Anne Communications Guidelines Revised 11-14-2018 St. Anne Roman Catholic Parish Communications Guidelines These guidelines provide an efficient and effective process for submission of information

More information

Diocese of Marquette Increased Offertory Program

Diocese of Marquette Increased Offertory Program Diocese of Marquette Increased Offertory Program Terri Gadzinski, Development Director Diocese of Marquette 1004 Harbor Hills Drive, Marquette, MI 49855 Phone: 906/227-9108 or 1/800/562-9745 ext. #108

More information

DIOCESAN PRIORITIES. (over)

DIOCESAN PRIORITIES. (over) DIOCESAN PRIORITIES Addressing effectively these pastoral priorities requires first and foremost a commitment by all in the Church to intentional discipleship and to enthusiastically embrace the mission

More information

Communication Plan and Toolkit For Parishes Moving Ahead as Pastoral Regions

Communication Plan and Toolkit For Parishes Moving Ahead as Pastoral Regions Communication Plan and Toolkit For Parishes Moving Ahead as Pastoral Regions Planning for and implementing a pastoral region is a major change in the life of a parish. Strategic, intentional, timely and

More information

Starting Your Stewardship Council

Starting Your Stewardship Council Starting Your Stewardship Council Mission of the Stewardship Council The Catholic Community of St. Luke the Evangelist We prayerfully believe we have a spiritual need to share our time, talent, and treasure

More information

Saint Bernadette Catholic Church

Saint Bernadette Catholic Church Saint Bernadette Catholic Church Butner, North Carolina GOALS AND OBJECTIVES 2011-2012 MISSION STATEMENT Saint Bernadette Parish is an ethnically diverse and welcoming community of Christians. We share

More information

Active Campaign Phase Manual

Active Campaign Phase Manual Active Campaign Phase Manual Table of Contents Advance Promotion of the Campaign (January 13 & 14) 2 Prayers of the Faithful, Bulletin, and Altar Announcements Active Phase of the Campaign (Begins January

More information

Diocese of La Crosse. Diocesan Annual Appeal. Parish Manual

Diocese of La Crosse. Diocesan Annual Appeal. Parish Manual 2016 2017 Diocese of La Crosse Diocesan Annual Appeal Parish Manual DIOCESE OF LA CROSSE STEWARDSHIP & DEVELOPMENT OFFICE Jeff Reiter, Director of Stewardship & Development Sarah Komperud, Administrative

More information

Diocese of San Bernardino DDF Annual Appeal Resource Guide Mission Advancement (909)

Diocese of San Bernardino DDF Annual Appeal Resource Guide Mission Advancement (909) Diocese of San Bernardino 2018 DDF Annual Appeal Resource Guide Mission Advancement (909) 475-5460 Table of Contents Section 1: Introduction A Message from Bishop Gerald Barnes.3 Diocese of San Bernardino

More information

Engage Parishioners Through An Annual Offertory and Communication Plan

Engage Parishioners Through An Annual Offertory and Communication Plan Engage Parishioners Through An Annual Offertory and Communication Plan Region XI Stewardship Conference May 5, 2014 Terry Poplava Director of Marketing, Sales and Customer Service Our Sunday Visitor Offertory

More information

Time and Talent Stewardship Renewal

Time and Talent Stewardship Renewal Time and Talent Stewardship Renewal Spring, 2010 HOMILY HELPS For Parish Priests and Deacons We are pleased to present all deacons and priests in Stewardship parishes in our Diocese with these homiletic

More information

Sacramental Policies and Guidelines. Diocese of Paterson, New Jersey. May 31, Introduction

Sacramental Policies and Guidelines. Diocese of Paterson, New Jersey. May 31, Introduction Sacramental Policies and Guidelines Diocese of Paterson, New Jersey May 31, 2009 Introduction There are fundamental policies that apply to catechesis for each of the Sacraments. The following revised policies

More information

Angel Tree Church Coordinator s Guide

Angel Tree Church Coordinator s Guide Angel Tree Church Coordinator s Guide Table of Contents Phase 1: Preparation and Recruitment 1 What is Angel Tree? 1 Basic Guidelines 1 Step 1: Prepare for the Program 2 Step 2: Recruit Your Team 3 Step

More information

Guidelines for Yoked Parishes in the Diocese of Norwich. Introduction. I. Role of the Pastor. II. Parish Pastoral Councils

Guidelines for Yoked Parishes in the Diocese of Norwich. Introduction. I. Role of the Pastor. II. Parish Pastoral Councils Guidelines for Yoked Parishes in the Diocese of Norwich Introduction When parishes in the Diocese of Norwich are yoked, it means that a group of parishes is under the leadership of one pastor. Usually,

More information

Pamphlets. Our Sunday Visitor Pamphlets

Pamphlets. Our Sunday Visitor Pamphlets Our Sunday Visitor Pamphlets Our Sunday Visitor Pamphlets The perfect parish communication tool! Most pamphlets available in English AND Spanish Preview PDFs for every pamphlet available at osvparish.com/pamphlets

More information

SAMPLE - COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL SAMPLE - COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL PARISH LEADERSHIP TEAM MANUAL

SAMPLE - COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL SAMPLE - COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL PARISH LEADERSHIP TEAM MANUAL PARISH LEADERSHIP TEAM MANUAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AUTHOR n Rev. Kenneth Boyack, CSP Fr. Kenneth Boyack, CSP, serves as the Vice President of Paulist Evangelization Ministries. The author or editor of fifteen

More information

Increase our Awareness

Increase our Awareness Increase our Awareness Dear Lord, Thank you for helping us recognize and answer Your Call to be here today. We pray for increasing awareness of Your messages to us: Through the people You send into our

More information

Bishop s Visitation Customary Diocese of Olympia

Bishop s Visitation Customary Diocese of Olympia Bishop s Visitation Customary Diocese of Olympia The Rt. Rev. Gregory H. Rickel VIII Bishop of Olympia The Episcopal Diocese of Olympia The Episcopal Church of Western Washington I am looking forward to

More information

Seat of Wisdom Diocesan Institute Do whatever he tells you (Jn. 2:5)

Seat of Wisdom Diocesan Institute Do whatever he tells you (Jn. 2:5) Seat of Wisdom Diocesan Institute Do whatever he tells you (Jn. 2:5) A Formation Program for Adults of the Diocese of Madison Parish Catechists & Volunteers Diocese of Madison www.madisondiocese.org Diocese

More information

Congratulations, you have logged on successfully to Our Sunday Visitor s live Webinar Establishing a Plan for Stewardship Communications

Congratulations, you have logged on successfully to Our Sunday Visitor s live Webinar Establishing a Plan for Stewardship Communications Congratulations, you have logged on successfully to Our Sunday Visitor s live Webinar Establishing a Plan for Stewardship Communications Moderated by: Diane Brumbaugh There are two options to hear the

More information

Appeal Sunday Presenter Manual. Table of Contents

Appeal Sunday Presenter Manual. Table of Contents Appeal Sunday Presenter Manual Table of Contents Title Page Facts about the 2018 DSA 2 DSA Ministry Facts 3-5 Pastor s Presentation Weekend 6-7 Lay Presenter s Presentation Weekend 8-9 Sample Lay Presenter

More information

2016 Parish Survey Results

2016 Parish Survey Results 1 St. Joseph Catholic Church Richardson, Texas 2016 Parish Survey Results Narrative Summary Report Overview Executive Summary Narrative Summary Report Appendix A: Parish Demographic Survey Results Appendix

More information

BISHOP S SERVICES APPEAL (BSA) RESOURCE MANUAL

BISHOP S SERVICES APPEAL (BSA) RESOURCE MANUAL BISHOP S SERVICES APPEAL (BSA) RESOURCE MANUAL 1408 Carmel Drive Lafayette, Louisiana 70501 Phone No.: (337) 261-5641 diolaf.org TABLE OF CONTENTS What is the Bishop s Services Appeal (BSA)?...1 Bishop

More information

SO, BE BOLD! A PASTORAL PLAN FOR OUTREACH TO YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS IN THE DIOCESE OF BROOKLYN

SO, BE BOLD! A PASTORAL PLAN FOR OUTREACH TO YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS IN THE DIOCESE OF BROOKLYN SO, BE BOLD! A PASTORAL PLAN FOR OUTREACH TO YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS IN THE DIOCESE OF BROOKLYN Overview The Diocese of Brooklyn has a rich, long history of catechizing and evangelizing youth and young

More information

GUIDE FOR PLANNING AND ORGANIZING YOUR MINISTRY FAIR

GUIDE FOR PLANNING AND ORGANIZING YOUR MINISTRY FAIR A GUIDE FOR PLANNING AND ORGANIZING YOUR MINISTRY FAIR PREPARED BY: THE OFFICE OF STEWARDSHIP & DEVELOPMENT DIOCESE OF PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND THE PURPOSE OF THE TIME AND TALENT MINISTRY FAIR A Time and

More information

Diocese of La Crosse. Diocesan Annual Appeal. Parish Manual DIOCESE OF LA CROSSE STEWARDSHIP & DEVELOPMENT OFFICE

Diocese of La Crosse. Diocesan Annual Appeal. Parish Manual DIOCESE OF LA CROSSE STEWARDSHIP & DEVELOPMENT OFFICE 2015 2016 Diocese of La Crosse Diocesan Annual Appeal Parish Manual DIOCESE OF LA CROSSE STEWARDSHIP & DEVELOPMENT OFFICE 3710 East Avenue S, PO Box 4004, La Crosse, WI 54602-4004 Phone 608-791-2653 Fax

More information

Puedes contar conmigo! You can count on me!

Puedes contar conmigo! You can count on me! Puedes contar conmigo! You can count on me! The Stewardship and Evangelization Process of Elizabeth Carrillo ( Elizabeth s Plan ) Sacred Heart Catholic Church Austin, Texas Diocese of Austin June 2018

More information

Planning Guide for the Diocesan Encuentro

Planning Guide for the Diocesan Encuentro Planning Guide for the Diocesan Encuentro What is the Diocesan Encuentro? The Diocesan Encuentro is an opportunity to: Gather delegates from parishes, apostolic groups and Catholic organizations, together

More information

An Overview of the Parish-Based Program

An Overview of the Parish-Based Program An Overview of the Parish-Based Program Walking With Purpose is a women s Catholic Bible study that aims to bring women to a deeper personal relationship with Jesus Christ by offering personal study and

More information

3. The Archdiocese of Santa Fe Office of Worship will provide guidelines for parish training and formation of liturgical ministers by fall 2007.

3. The Archdiocese of Santa Fe Office of Worship will provide guidelines for parish training and formation of liturgical ministers by fall 2007. Sacraments and Worship Christ acts in and through the Church. Through ritual actions and sacred signs, the church celebrates the paschal Mystery by which God redeems us and makes us holy. Through the grace

More information

Parish Celebration for Sending Catechumens for Election and Candidates for Recognition by the Bishop

Parish Celebration for Sending Catechumens for Election and Candidates for Recognition by the Bishop Parish Celebration for Sending Catechumens for Election and Candidates for Recognition by the Bishop Outline of the Rite Liturgy of the Word Homily Presentation of the Catechumens Affirmation by the Godparents

More information

St. John the Baptist Parish Pastoral Plan and Annual Report. Six Main Goals. June 2017 June 2022

St. John the Baptist Parish Pastoral Plan and Annual Report. Six Main Goals. June 2017 June 2022 St. John the Baptist Parish Pastoral Plan and Annual Report Six Main Goals June 2017 June 2022 Introduction: From September 2016 through May 2017, the Pastoral Council studied the results of the Parish

More information

n n n n n n n n n TABLE OF CONTENTS

n n n n n n n n n TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction...5 Session One: Sacraments and Symbols...9 Session Two: Water and Baptism...21 Session Three: Bread, Wine, and the Eucharist...30 Session Four: Immediate Preparation for

More information

Pastoral and catechetical ministry with adolescents in Middle School or Junior High School (if separate from the Parish School of Religion)

Pastoral and catechetical ministry with adolescents in Middle School or Junior High School (if separate from the Parish School of Religion) 100.10 In this manual, the term youth ministry pertains to the parish s pastoral and catechetical ministry with adolescents of high school age. Additional programs included within the term youth ministry

More information

2015 Catholic Services Appeal Parish Guide

2015 Catholic Services Appeal Parish Guide 1 2015 Parish Guide Archdiocese of Louisville 2015 Catholic Services Appeal Parish Guide Table of Contents Prayer...3 Section 1. Purpose & Case for Support...4 Section 2. Appeal Goal & Theme...6 Section

More information

Catholic Family Sharing Appeal Parish Timeline

Catholic Family Sharing Appeal Parish Timeline Parish Timeline January 2013 22 Regional Meeting Sacred Heart, Aberdeen 24 Regional Meeting St. Benedict, Yankton 26-27 ANNOUNCEMENT WEEKEND AT PARISHES 29 Regional Meeting Holy Trinity, Huron 31 Regional

More information

Lay Ministry Sunday: In Your Parish and Diocese

Lay Ministry Sunday: In Your Parish and Diocese Lay Ministry Sunday: In Your Parish and Diocese Promotional Packet Courtesy of the Advocacy Committee for National Association of Lay Ministry Mission Statement The National Association for Lay Ministry

More information

St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church Long Range Planning Committee Long Range Plan November 2005

St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church Long Range Planning Committee Long Range Plan November 2005 Dear Fellow Parishioners & Friends in Christ: January 15, 2006 The attached November 2005 Long Range Plan for our St. Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church is a result of some three years of work lovingly

More information

PROJECT GUIDE LHM GUATEMALA. Curriculum

PROJECT GUIDE LHM GUATEMALA. Curriculum PROJECT GUIDE LHM GUATEMALA Curriculum What to Look For In This Guatemala Curriculum Please review and become familiar with the contents of this curriculum packet. The pieces are designed to provide for

More information

Archbishop s Annual Appeal Training Manual - Table of Contents

Archbishop s Annual Appeal Training Manual - Table of Contents Archbishop s Annual Appeal Training Manual - Table of Contents This manual is available on our website: www.archbalt.org (see instructions on p. 36) Stewardship Prayer Page 1 The 2014 Archbishop s Annual

More information

DIOCESE OF SACRAMENTO PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL GUIDELINES

DIOCESE OF SACRAMENTO PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL GUIDELINES DIOCESE OF SACRAMENTO PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL GUIDELINES October 2013 DIOCESE OF SACRAMENTO PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL GUILDELINES THE MISSION OF THE CHURCH The Church is the living body of Christ in which

More information

MINISTRY GUIDE ST. SYLVESTER R.C. CHURCH ~ 68 OHIO AVENUE, MEDFORD, NY PARISH PHONE NUMBER: (631)

MINISTRY GUIDE ST. SYLVESTER R.C. CHURCH ~ 68 OHIO AVENUE, MEDFORD, NY PARISH PHONE NUMBER: (631) MINISTRY GUIDE ST. SYLVESTER R.C. CHURCH ~ 68 OHIO AVENUE, MEDFORD, NY 11763 PARISH PHONE NUMBER: (631) 475-4506 WEBSITE: WWW.STSYLVESTERLI.ORG Please use this Guide to help you choose the Ministries that

More information

Immaculate Conception Church Wilmington, North Carolina

Immaculate Conception Church Wilmington, North Carolina Reports to: Faith Formation Commission Sacramental Preparation Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) Coordinator Position Description Faith Formation Commission Chair. Ministry Purpose / Objective:

More information

PASTORAL PLAN. Goals & Objectives S Nicholas Parish El Toro Road Laguna Woods, CA 92637

PASTORAL PLAN. Goals & Objectives S Nicholas Parish El Toro Road Laguna Woods, CA 92637 PASTORAL PLAN Goals & Objectives 2015 t S Nicholas Parish 24252 El Toro Road Laguna Woods, CA 92637 MISSION STATEMENT Saint Nicholas Parish is a Catholic community, celebrating our faith through the Sacraments,

More information

Diocesan Guidelines for Parish Pastoral Councils Diocese of San Jose, CA

Diocesan Guidelines for Parish Pastoral Councils Diocese of San Jose, CA Diocesan Guidelines for Parish Pastoral Councils Diocese of San Jose, CA Introduction. Vatican II called on all Catholics to recognize and respond to their vocation to ministry. This call includes an invitation

More information

St. KILIAN RELIGIOUS EDUCATION HANDBOOK. Pre-K & Kindergarten (ages 4 & 5) Grades 1-8, Special Education

St. KILIAN RELIGIOUS EDUCATION HANDBOOK. Pre-K & Kindergarten (ages 4 & 5) Grades 1-8, Special Education St. KILIAN RELIGIOUS EDUCATION HANDBOOK Pre-K & Kindergarten (ages 4 & 5) Grades 1-8, Special Education St. Kilian Church Office of Religious Education Pre-K & Kindergarten, Grades 1-8 and Special Education

More information

MISSION ACTION PLAN

MISSION ACTION PLAN INTRODUCTION MISSION ACTION PLAN 2016-2021 Commencing in the fall of 2015, a diverse group of approximately 40 parishioners began the Parish Transformation process led by a facilitator from the Archdiocese

More information

ARCHDIOCESE OF NEWARK PARISH PRINCIPLES

ARCHDIOCESE OF NEWARK PARISH PRINCIPLES ARCHDIOCESE OF NEWARK PARISH PRINCIPLES Task Force on Parishes April 8, 2003 PARISH PRINCIPLES Pages #1 Spiritual Life 1-3 #2 Education and Formational Life 3-5 #3 Life of Service 5-7 #4 Parish Community

More information

St. Joseph Church STAFF: - Website: stjosephsquincy.org

St. Joseph Church STAFF:  - Website: stjosephsquincy.org St. Joseph Church 550 Washington Street, Quincy, MA 02169 Tel. 617-472-6321 Fax 617-471-8849 Email - stjoesquincy@comcast.net Website: stjosephsquincy.org STAFF: Rev. Matthew M. Williams, Pastor Rev. Joseph

More information

Diocese of Marquette. Guidelines for Confirmation

Diocese of Marquette. Guidelines for Confirmation Diocese of Marquette Guidelines for Confirmation Revised 2017 In March of 2012, the Most Reverend Alexander K. Sample established the 11 th grade as the ordinary age for the celebration of the Sacrament

More information

Synod on Young People, the Faith, and Vocational Discernment Listening Sessions Tool-Kit 1

Synod on Young People, the Faith, and Vocational Discernment Listening Sessions Tool-Kit 1 Synod on Young People, the Faith, and Vocational Discernment Listening Sessions Tool-Kit 1 Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, recently called for a Synod on Young People, the Faith, and Vocational Discernment

More information

A Future with Hope Mission Fund Campaign Manual The United Methodist Church Greater New Jersey Conference

A Future with Hope Mission Fund Campaign Manual The United Methodist Church Greater New Jersey Conference A Future with Hope Mission Fund Campaign Manual The United Methodist Church Greater New Jersey Conference Extending the Mission of the Church Locally, Regionally and Globally For use only by The United

More information

The Cathedral Community

The Cathedral Community The Cathedral Community Rochester, New York Building a Solid Future in Hope Capital Campaign Building a Solid Future in Hope Campaign Prayer Gracious God, through Your Holy Spirit, You continue to bless

More information

Saint Peter Parish Geneva, Illinois. Pastoral Plan

Saint Peter Parish Geneva, Illinois. Pastoral Plan Saint Peter Parish Geneva, Illinois Pastoral Plan 2003-2005 Table of Contents Page Mission of Saint Peter Parish 2 Parish Overview 3 Introduction 4 Priority One - Worship 6 Priority Two - Education 7 Priority

More information

Lay Witnesses Why have a lay witness? people give to people Who should be asked to make the lay witness presentation? Outline for Lay Presenter Talk

Lay Witnesses Why have a lay witness? people give to people Who should be asked to make the lay witness presentation? Outline for Lay Presenter Talk Lay Witnesses Why have a lay witness? Inviting the ICA Chairperson (or another lay witness) to speak to the congregation provides increased motivation to participate in the Appeal. The use of a lay witness

More information

C a t h o l i c D i o c e s e o f Y o u n g s t o w n

C a t h o l i c D i o c e s e o f Y o u n g s t o w n Catholic Diocese of Youngstown A Guide for Parish Pastoral Councils A People of Mission and Vision 2000 The Diocesan Parish Pastoral Council Guidelines are the result of an eighteen-month process of study,

More information

2017 BISHOP S ANNUAL APPEAL

2017 BISHOP S ANNUAL APPEAL 2017 BISHOP S ANNUAL APPEAL PARISH LEADERSHIP PROMOTIONAL INFORMATION 2017 BISHOP S ANNUAL APPEAL Office of Development Catholic Diocese of Memphis 901-373-1209 www.cdom.org TABLE OF CONTENTS Message,

More information

GOD S GIFT APPEAL. Commitment Weekend February 23-24, 2019 DIOCESE OF FARGO

GOD S GIFT APPEAL. Commitment Weekend February 23-24, 2019 DIOCESE OF FARGO Be holy as your heavenly Father is holy. (Mt. 5:48) GOD S GIFT APPEAL Commitment Weekend February 23-24, 2019 DIOCESE OF FARGO Office of the Bishop 5201 Bishops Blvd. S, Suite A Fargo, North Dakota 58104-7605

More information

Immaculate Conception Church Wilmington, North Carolina

Immaculate Conception Church Wilmington, North Carolina Reports to: Liturgical Commission Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion to the Sick and Homebound Coordinator Position Description Liturgical Commission Chair, currently the Director of Liturgy Ministry

More information

GUIDE FOR INTRODUCING STEWARDSHIP TO CHILDREN

GUIDE FOR INTRODUCING STEWARDSHIP TO CHILDREN A GUIDE FOR INTRODUCING STEWARDSHIP TO CHILDREN PREPARED BY: THE OFFICE OF STEWARDSHIP & DEVELOPMENT DIOCESE OF PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND Lifelong Habits Take Shape if Stewardship is Instilled at a Young

More information

Building Up the Body of Christ: Parish Planning in the Archdiocese of Baltimore

Building Up the Body of Christ: Parish Planning in the Archdiocese of Baltimore Building Up the Body of Christ: Parish Planning in the Archdiocese of Baltimore And he gave some as apostles, others as prophets, others as evangelists, others as pastors and teachers, to equip the holy

More information

Parish Contact Manual

Parish Contact Manual Parish Contact Manual 1 Table of Contents Young Disciples Apostolate Overview 3 Young Disciples Team Training 4 A Week with a Young Disciples Team 5 Elementary Day Camp: Vacation Bible School 6 Foundation

More information