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Discernment of Gifts
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Please complete your intention card online (below) by November 10th, 2024.
Answering the Call to Stewardship
Stewardship is an expression of discipleship, with the power to change how we understand and live out our lives. It is recognizing that everything we have and everything we are is a gift from God. We are to be grateful and generous with these gifts of Time, Talent, Treasure, just as
God has given us so much. Holy Spirit Church asks for you to prayerfully consider your gifts, and to share a proportion of them. Please pray for the Church and participate with talents as best fits your situation. Any gift is freely given, just as God has freely given so much to us.
What Does the Church Teach About Stewardship?- Code of Canon Law: Can. 222 §1. The Christian faithful are obliged to assist with the needs of the Church so that the Church has what is necessary for divine worship, for the works of the apostolate and of charity, and for the decent support of ministers. §2. They are also obliged to promote social justice and mindful of the precept of the Lord, to assist the poor from their own resources.
- Catechism of the Catholic Church 1351 From the very beginning Christians have brought, along with the bread and wine for the Eucharist, gifts to share with those in need. This custom of the collection, ever appropriate, is inspired by the example of Christ who became poor to make us rich: Those who are well off, and who are also willing, give as each chooses. What is gathered is given to him who presides to assist orphans and widows, those whom illness or any other cause has deprived of resources, prisoners, immigrants and, in a word, all who are in need.
What does my financial giving support?
There are two separate funds for the Church to which you are asked to contribute:- Operating Expense Fund: This fund provides the necessary monies to fulfill the Church’s basic needs, including liturgical celebrations, catechetical and sacramental formation, ministries of good works, facility maintenance, utilities, plus clergy and pastoral staff salaries.
- Debt Retirement Fund: This fund makes the mortgage payments on the Church building are paid for through a separate debt retirement fund and are not included within the operating budget. The faith community began paying for the Church building in 2010 and has paid almost half of the amount borrowed. The property, administrative space, meeting rooms and halls and the rectory have all been paid for.
How much should I give? This is up to each parishioner to determine. The Church asks that each family/person make time to discern and prayerfully consider their individual abilities. A goal that the Church has shared is to consider achieving a total of 10% of your income where 4% is given to the Church, 1% to the Disciples Response Fund, and 5% to other Charities. A good idea is to start somewhere in your giving. Make it a planned gift, and increase it a little every year.
What is the time frame of my financial gift? The timeframe for your commitment made this Fall is for the calendar year 2025.
What if my financial circumstances change? Your commitment may be altered by a simple
telephone call or email to the parish office.
What is a Planned Gift?
A planned gift or a bequest is a gift typically through a will, trust, or life insurance policy. It costs nothing and allows a person to live out their lives while knowing they will leave a legacy to Holy Spirit Faith Community. It can be any amount or percentage the person chooses. This is an important way to support the ongoing efforts of the Catholic faith. In many cases, it is as simple as designating Holy Spirit Catholic Church as a beneficiary on a Life Insurance Policy. A Church committee is currently being formed to help parishioners with this giving method. If you are interested in learning more, please contact the office for further details.