Dear Friends at Epiphany, 

Stewardship is defined as the management of, or the act of taking care of, or the responsibility to look after and care for, something we value. It is an important part of our relationship with Epiphany. Taking care of our church, our congregation, and our community is a way that we can show our appreciation for God’s many gifts and explore what’s possible when we work together. 

When our children were little, we used to give them each a dollar to put in the plate as it was passed hand-to-hand through the church. Their eyes would become round as they reached for the shiny plate, felt its weight, and saw the treasures within. They understood the importance of the moment, the joy inherent in the act of giving, and the excitement of being part of the church service and a participating member of the church family. It made an impression to the point that they would remind us if we forgot to give them something to put in each week. The act of giving and belonging was an integral part of their church experience, not because of the amount given, but because of the communal act. 

As I lean into the role of Stewardship Chair for Epiphany, I have spent some time talking to those who have had this role before me, and those who have taken on this role for other Episcopal churches near and far, to better understand the importance of giving to the life of our church. What I’ve found is that stewardship is more than a donation. It’s a pledge — a sense of belonging and responsibility to all of you — to be there when there is need, to give hope and promise to our church family and community, to harness that joy found in the giving process and the promise inherent in being a part of God’s work in the world. Stewardship is critical to the healthy life of Epiphany, allowing us to sustain, to plan, and to dream. 

My husband and I value the experiences and relationships Epiphany adds to our lives and the good work we all do, as a church family, to help our community and the world beyond. We’ve found that our decision to pledge a mix of our time, talent, and treasure here at Epiphany has given us much more in return than it has cost us. Interacting as part of the service (singing, reading, listening, and praying), volunteering in various ministries, taking on an active role where needed, building relationships, and turning in our pledge card – all of these things have helped us reclaim that feeling of wide-eyed wonder and have given us the privilege of being stewards. All is a healthy balance of give and take.

As Rev. Dina mentioned during last week’s service, the stewardship campaign activities are coming to a close for this season and the Stewardship Ministry will not be as vocal and active in asking for your financial support. However, you are always welcome to add your pledge in support of our church community and its good work, with God’s help. Every pledge, no matter the size, is helpful! More importantly, your pledge is an outward and visible sign of support for all that our church family is working to accomplish. I look forward to reimagining the possible with all of you as we move forward through the seasons, working together to ensure the health of our church and its community. 

Blessings,

Heather Modzelewski Stewardship Ministry Lead