Stewardship 2023: Neighbors in Giving

PLEDGE NOW ONLINE

We, your St. James Stewardship Committee, are thrilled to announce the Parish’s 2023 Pledge Drive, which begins today, Sunday, September 25 and concludes in celebration on November 13th. We write today to request your pledge of support for St. James and our parish community at large.

Our Parish theme for this year asks each of us to consider the question: “Who is My Neighbor?” To see why we should ask that question, we need only look to Jesus’s Golden Rule. In his sermon on the mount, Jesus proclaimed that we should all love our neighbors as ourselves. The action word in that rule is love, an action that Jesus repeatedly defined through the acts of service, especially service to our fellow people, our neighbors. Those teachings and lessons inspired this year’s Stewardship theme, Neighbors in Giving.

Jesus speaks directly to the ways in which we should use our gifts in that service, stating “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” 1 Peter 4:10. We are all blessed with many gifts, both tangible and intangible. No gift is more valuable than another, but different gifts fit into different slots in the puzzle, and the investment of our funds is no exception.

The benefits of our collective investment in St. James have rarely been clearer than they are at this very moment. The energy and momentum of the Church is palpable. Services are vibrant and impactful. St. James Day School is at capacity and bustling with students, teachers, and love. Talented staff and numerous valuable new members have joined. Programming is diverse, meaningful, and frequent. From the lecture series to children’s ministries to deep and varied community outreach, the reach of St. James’ love is long.

We do not take our appeal to you lightly. Please know that participation is meaningful no matter the level; there is simply no gift too small. What is important is that we each contribute from your heart and in a way that is manageable for you and your family. Please do not be shy about your questions; reach out to any of us. We want to hear from you and we look forward to receiving your pledge for 2023.

Blessings,

Co-Chairs: Allen Trask, III & Lizzie Hartman

Members: Bram Colonna, Kristine Montalto, Jenna Porter

Advisors: Bill Clark & Ryal Tayloe, Sr.

Vestry Liaisons: Kay Dougherty & Al Marr