Archbishop Thomas J. Murphy
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"Let us consider Stewardship as the virtue that enables us to see that our offerings of talent, time and treasure can be a sacrifice of thanksgiving that we offer to God with joy!” Father Tom Ferguson, Stewardship: A Way of Life brochure |
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8. General Parish Assessment
a. Parish is an example to other parishes of similar size and is open to mentoring other parishes in the Diocese/Archdiocese. Good Shepherd Parish is distinguished in the Catholic Diocese of Arlington as a leader in the good stewardship of resources and in reporting. Our Pastor recently presented Pastor: Wise and Prudent Steward to the Business Managers of the Diocese; our Pastoral Associate presented Being Good Stewards of our Resources at the Safe Worship Workshop, sponsored by the Diocese and Arlington County. The parish Emergency Management Plan, Operations Manual, and Employee Evaluation form have been shared with parishes throughout the Diocese. Our monthly dashboard, quarterly and annual reporting models, are offered as an example for other parishes.
b. What is unique about this parish? What lived lessons does the parish have to offer other parishes just starting to embrace Stewardship? Good Shepherd is formed by people from many backgrounds who share a great gratitude for their faith. The parish is unique because the Stewardship Team, led by Father Tom, infuses the message of gratitude and service across all ministries and programs which is not limited to a committee. The creativity of parishioners and ministry partnerships promotes collaboration and support for all programs and empowers lay leaders. Stewardship is focused on the spiritual journey of each parishioner inspiring them to recognize and share their gifts. Through varied communication methods - written, social media, television news, and pictures - we evangelize parishioners where they are on their journey and invite them into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. A parish that is just starting to embrace stewardship should focus on reaching parishioners through varied forms of media.
c. In what area(s) does the parish have the greatest opportunity for growth in living Stewardship? The Stewardship Team constantly seeks new ways to evangelize parishioners more effectively. Our geographic area will always be transient due to federal government and military transfers, the influx of immigrants from Central and South America as well as refugees from the Middle East and Africa. The parish is well poised to consider new and multi-cultural approaches to Stewardship leading to well formed and informed parishioners. The parish’s spirit of Stewardship is embodied in our Jubilee Prayer: “You came that we might have life, and have it in abundance. Today, may we be grateful for this gift, and share it generously in our future, as those who have come before us have handed it on to us”. – Father Tom Ferguson, Jubilee Prayer
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LINKS
GSCC Application (Main page) 1. Committee 2. Growth 3. Education 4. Renewal 5. Gifts 6. Communication 7. Hospitality 8. General assessment 9. Supporting Materials Supporting Materials
(Section 8) |