Stewardship Messages and Reflections

October 1: 18th Sunday after Pentecost – Matthew 21: 23 -32
Jesus speaks about John the Baptist to those who “have it made.” They didn’t listen to John’s message which advocated for justice. However, says Jesus, the tax collectors and prostitutes did. And they (as we all know) didn’t “have it made.” Are there connections between stewardship and justice? You be the judge.

“A Ministry Moment” As part of our annual stewardship program, we continue an intentional journey of giving thanks for the ministries in our community. This morning we give thanks for the members of the “Choir”, for their faithfulness and commitment. We ask God’s continued blessing on each member: (Adriaan Bakker, Julia Goss, Amanda Marsh, Dianne Lloyd, Sheila Robson, Pauline Reid, Joyce Salkey, Phyllis Pharo, Karen Jagne, Jody Ristow, Steve Kirton, Jim Finlay, David Marsh, John Houghton, Jeff Schrader, Tom Willis).

The Choir has about 18 members who share God’s message through music. We meet from September to June: weekly on Thursday’s from 7:30-9:30 and again on Sunday’s to provide the music for the 11:00 services. We are challenged to present good quality music and text to the best of our ability. We have a wide range of vocal abilities and are always on the lookout for new members in all voice sections.

September 24: 17th Sunday after Pentecost – Matthew 20: 1-6
“I’ll pay you whatever is fair,” says the owner of the vineyard to those he hires. However, by the end of the day, the payment hardly seems fair to those who have worked under the hot sun all day long. God’s generosity knows no bounds. How many times do you think to yourself: “God’s not being fair to me?” Think again!

The greatest prayers are those that are prayed in the silence of our hearts. Every Sunday we collectively lift up prayers during the prayers of the people. Intercessors lead the prayers at the 9:30 and 11:00 am services. I ask that you would prayfully consider joining this team. Training and a template for the day are provided. I would be happy to discuss this ministry with anybody who feels called to it. From Deacon Joanne Warman.

September 17: 16th Sunday after Pentecost – Matthew 18: 21-35
Who says stewardship is only about money? This story clearly tells us that stewardship and forgiveness are interwoven. Jesus reminds us that the faithful steward is the one who cares so much for others that they are able to forgive – even when they might feel they are owed much!

“A Ministry Moment” As part of our annual stewardship program, we continue an intentional journey of giving thanks for the ministries in our community. This morning we give thanks for the members of the “St Margaret’s Guild”, for their faithfulness and commitment. We ask God’s continued blessing on each member: (Janet Duke, Isabelle Beaudet, Amber Bryce,Irma Carson, Karen Carter, Patty Clift, Marilyn Csihas, Lesley Dath, Janet Finlay, Maxine Fitzgerald, Diane Gaunt, Marion Hunter, Joyce Ibbott-Belvin, Jane Lawrence, Karen Liedeman, Lesley Nightingale, Paula Robinson, Susan Sleith, Penney Stevens, Eleanor Stevenson, Shauna Van Hoof, Penelope Williams, Millicent Wright).

ST MARGARET’S GUILD is a group of dedicated women who meet regularly for fun and fellowship. Together they support each other, our church community and beyond with social activities and fundraising events. That is their mission statement.

Activities include social get-togethers like a pot luck supper, theater, coffee time, wine and cheese and maybe a craft evening. The fundraising focus is typically on the Plant, Bake and Book sale, the making of preserves for the Bazaar and of course working on Bazaar day wherever needed – the preserves table, kitchen for the take out soup lunch, classic treasures and Christmas Shop. Whatever Guild members are doing, they do it with a joyful heart and comforting fellowship.

September 10: 15th Sunday after Pentecost – Matthew 18: 15-20
Some people say that they can’t see or find Jesus anywhere in their lives. In today’s gospel, Jesus reminds us that he will be found wherever two or three are gathered together in his name. It sounds like Jesus likes to be among company. How often do you gather with others “in his name?

“A Ministry Moment” As part of our annual stewardship program, we continue an intentional journey of giving thanks for the ministries in our community.  This morning we give thanks for the members of our “Greeters Team”, for their faithfulness and commitment. We ask God’s continued blessing on each member: (Waneta Dennis, Jackie Brooks, Allan Robinson, Shane Schick & Emily Grace Schick, Millicent Wright, Karen & Neil Liedeman, Isabelle & John Beaudet, Marion Stephens, Lesley Nightingale, Janet Duke, Shauna van Hoof, Debi McQuoid, Al Nowitski, Maurice & Joan Fraser, June Barlow, Susan Sleith, Greg Carter and Eleanor Stevenson).

The Greeters Team is made currently made up of 22 dedicated members who arrive at church approximately a half hour before the service starts. They greet the parishioners when they arrive and provide them with a bulletin for the service. They try to recognize new people and answer any questions they may have. As part of their duties they give the count of numbers in attendance to one of the servers, this is provided by Rob. Another duty is to deliver the collection plates to the server at the front of the church by the end of the offertory hymn and to assist with ushering for the Eucharist/communion at the 11:00 am service or 10:00 am during summer hours. They tidy up after each service (pick up bulletins etc. left in the pews and return books to the pew backs). Any questions that a greeter can’t answer should be directed to Rev. Jennifer Schick or one of the Wardens.

We are always looking to add members to the team. If you would like to be a Greeter please speak to Waneta Dennis or Jennifer Schick.

September 3: 14th Sunday after Pentecost – Matthew 16: 21-28
“You aren’t thinking in God’s terms, but in human terms,” says Jesus to Peter. The faithful steward is one who seeks to discern God’s “terms” and allows these to guide their thoughts and actions – minute by minute and day by day.

The Digital Verger Audio-Visual Ministry is comprised of a committed group of eight volunteers who provide online broadcast and connection to those parishioners who are unable to attend our worship services in-person. Digital Vergers control the audio and work the camera up in the balcony and behind the scenes, each week, connecting our in-person parishioners to between 30 and 40 individuals in their homes. Digital Vergers also provide digital connections for special worship services, vestry meetings, funerals and weddings.
New members to our team are always welcome. If you enjoy technology and have a creative flair, we will provide on-the-job training and work with you at your side until you are ready to take the reins to host a service on your own. Please contact Tim Ralph if you’d like more information.

August 27: Stewardship Reflection for the 13th Sunday after Pentecost – Matthew 16: 13-20
Peter responds to the question of Jesus with what some might call an inspired answer. Jesus is God’s anointed – God’s chosen one. If someone was to ask you, as a follower of Jesus, and (hopefully) as a faithful steward, who or what would you say Jesus is?

“A Ministry Moment”
As part of our annual stewardship program, we continue an intentional journey of giving thanks for the ministries in our community. This morning we give thanks for the members of our “Chancel Guild”, for their faithfulness and commitment. We ask God’s continued blessing on each member: (Pauline Reid, June Barlow, Isabelle Beaudet, Sandy Butler-Saunders, Mari-Lou Camelford, Rita Cane, Irma Carson, Sandy Clarke, Marilyn Csihas, Beryl Cyr, Jennifer Dewar, Lee Elliott, Debbie Gannon, Eve Harries, Anoop James, Edrie Kingston, Dianne Lloyd, Lesley Nightingale, Brenda Peel, Syama Prasad, Sheila Robson, Mary Sano, Elizabeth Sensicle, Susan St. Laurent, Penney Stevens, Eleanor Stevenson, Lynda Town.

The work of the Chancel Guild is conducted behind the scenes and the role of the members is to support the clergy and congregation in worship. More specifically, they prepare the sanctuary for Sunday services by ensuring the correct linens, vessels and communion elements are in the appropriate place. The flowers are ordered and arranged, and the readings placed in the binder. Subsequent to the service everything is cleared away and the chancel returned to its non-worship state. Additional duties are undertaken for weddings, funerals and other special services and Chancel Guild members decorate the church for Christmas, Easter and Thanksgiving.

Members work in teams and each team is responsible for one week a month. Currently we have 27 dedicated members who work diligently and reverently in support of our worship team. Each team is led by a Captain and the President coordinates the activities and liaises with the clergy and the worship committee. We are a warm and caring group and would be very happy to welcome new members. To God be the glory

August 20: Stewardship Reflection for the 12th Sunday after Pentecost – Matthew 15: (10-20), 21-28 “Your trust is enormous,” says Jesus to this Canaanite woman. A faithful steward is one who is able to show enormous trust in Jesus. If you were asked about your level of trust in Jesus, just how would you respond?

“A Ministry Moment” As part of our annual stewardship program, we continue an intentional journey of giving thanks for the ministries in our community.  This morning we give thanks for the members of our “Servers Guild”, for their faithfulness and commitment. We ask God’s continued blessing on each member: (Debbie Brewer, Patti Clift, Eleanor Stevenson, Winifred Scipio-Spencer, Mark de Sousa, George Csihas, A.J. Schick, Emily Grace Schick, Brian Finigan, Millicent Wright, Joyce Ibbott-Belvin).

Serving is a ministry that forms part of an act of worship. Under the general direction of the clergy, the Server undertakes the overall preparation of liturgical celebrations, ensuring all books, elements and other components required to celebrate the Eucharist or fulfil the worship liturgy are in place and in order.

Servers at All Saints form part of a team of three during the service at 11:00 a.m., no servers at 9:30 a.m., and one server at 8:00 a.m. The team consists of the Crucifer, who carries the Cross, the Communion Acolyte, a torch bearer, who helps to set the alter for communion, and the Gospel Acolyte, torch bearer, who presents the collection. The bells heard during the liturgy for communion are also rung by the Communion Acolyte. Special services will sometimes add another Server for a special purpose. Serving is a special ministry, and a privilege to be a part of. Training is provided for this very supportive and friendly group. We are always delighted to have additional members join our team.

August 13: Stewardship Reflection for the 11th Sunday after Pentecost – Matthew 14: 22-33
Does your life ever feel like it is being pounded and tossed around? Do you feel like you’re sinking, with no way of being rescued? Sometimes, it does get that bad, doesn’t it? The faithful steward knows not only when to ask for help but, more importantly, who to ask

There are two designated readers at the 11 a.m. services and each reader is assigned to read either the Old Testament or the Epistle on “their” Sundays from September to June. During the summer months, there is just one reader required.

On the Fridays before they are scheduled to read, the readers receive references for the Sunday readings by e-mail from our church secretary. This gives them time to practice their reading and check for any difficult or unfamiliar words. The preacher for the day bases their homily on the readings so it is very important that the scriptures are read clearly and with meaning to familiarize the parishioners with the basis for the message.

Our present readers are doing a wonderful job but new readers are always welcome too. If you are interested, please contact Gail Holland or Mthr. Jennifer.

August 6: Stewardship Reflection for the 10th Sunday after Pentecost – Matthew 14: 13-21
The familiar story of the loaves and fishes, seen through the eyes of a steward, serves as a reminder that from seemingly small and insignificant beginnings, great things can happen. Why, there are even leftovers! Do you see God’s abundant generosity in your world?

This group was on hiatus during the pandemic, and has recently become active again. Our mission is to bring scripture to life by telling it in a dramatic way. The words are not printed in the bulletin, so that the congregation is fully engaged with the storytellers. This year there was a dramatic presentation of the Passion of our Lord on Palm Sunday, and the story from Acts was presented on Pentecost Sunday.

July 30: Stewardship Reflection for the 9th Sunday after Pentecost – Matthew 13: 31-33, 44-52 “A Ministry Moment” As part of our annual stewardship program, we continue an intentional journey of giving thanks for the ministries in our community. This week we give thanks for the members of our “Pastoral Visitation Teams” and for their faithfulness and commitment. We ask God’s continued blessing on each member: (Deacon Joanne, Jeff S., Waneta D., Brian and Linda F., Phyllis P., June B., and Gail H., Eve H., Marlene H., Lee C. and Ian and Jennifer D.). The pandemic made visiting impossible and All Saints is now working on getting this team up and running again. Visiting is done in teams of 2 and usually visits are on a monthly basis. We bring communion to those who are unable to attend church in person. Training is provided. Our team meets 3-4 times a year but leaders are always available if you have questions or concerns. This ministry is not just about visiting. It is an acknowledgement, in various ways, of the importance to All Saints of every single person. Included in this ministry is the Card Ministry headed by Linda F. and the Prayer Shawl Ministry headed up by Eve H. and Marlene H. Donations of cards and wool would be greatly appreciated. If you are a knitter or a crocheter, Eve & Marlene would welcome the chance to let you know how you can share this talent with those of our Parish who would welcome a prayer shawl or blanket. Many of the cards that Linda sends out are handmade so if you are crafty and enjoy making cards, this is a place you can use this skill.

The Telephone ministry is another area of visitation and I want to thank Lee C. and Ian and Jennifer D. for their work in this area. Our list of members who need to be visited is growing, please consider joining the team.

July 23: Stewardship Reflection for the 8th Sunday after Pentecost – Matthew 13: 24-30, 36-43
How do you help “good seed” to not only take root, but to grow, and keep on growing in your life? Jesus suggests that the faithful steward is the one who listens to his words and allows them to guide all of his/her life.

“A Ministry Moment” As part of our annual stewardship program, we begin an intentional journey of giving thanks for the ministries in our community. This morning we give thanks for the members of our “Christian Education Team”, for their faithfulness and commitment. We ask God’s continued blessing on each member: (Jacky Bramma, Mother Jennifer, Arleane Ralph, Deacon Joanne, Cheryl Marek and Anne McGillivray).

The Christian Education Group meets four or five times a year to plan learning opportunities for our parish family. We seek to find, plan and lead courses and learning opportunities for a wide range of interests and topics both online and in-person.

In the past we have offered traditional Bible studies – such as the seven “I AM” statements of Jesus, studies on prayer, Religious Art appreciation, family-friendly movie nights, Indigenous studies such as “Mapping the Ground We Stand On” and “Stolen Lands-Strong Hearts”. We also led the global prayer initiative “Thy Kingdom Come” providing resources for our members.

We encourage everyone to join our offerings to grow deeper in your faith. If you have specific areas you wish to learn about, or would like to help shape the parish’s Christian Ed endeavors please speak to one of our members.

July 15: Stewardship Reflection for the 7th Sunday after Pentecost – Matthew 13: 1-9, 18-23
Ever stopped to ask yourself just what kind of soil the word finds in you? Know how to find out? It’s very simple, really. Just take a look at your life – how much and what kind of “fruit” do you see being produced regularly?

July 8: A Message from the Stewardship Committee Chair:

Stewardship education is an important aspect of healthy parish ministry. The generous giving of our time, talent and treasure ensures that parishes have the resources to be vibrant, attractional, and missional. Our stewardship is a part of how we live out our discipleship – essentially our call to be fully committed followers of Jesus Christ. As stewards we commit to a life of generosity in all aspects of our lives. But how do we do that? Or more importantly, where do we learn to do that?

(From the “Growing Healthy Stewards – Covenant” document.)

Our understanding of stewardship as a way of life is based on scripture. The first chapter of Genesis tells us that God created all things and created us to be stewards of all creation. Being good stewards involves protecting our environment, as well as being concerned about the welfare of our fellow human beings. As Stewards we recognize that everything, we have is a gift from God. We are responsible to tend our gifts, to nurture them and to share their abundance with all.

Why a year-round stewardship education program at this time? Stewardship includes Time, Talent and Treasure. The program will work to develop all three of these resources. Treasure, however, does have the most measurable impact on parish life.

The number of identified givers in the past six years has declined by 31%.
The Annual Offertory peaked in 2018 and has declined 15% since then.
The average annual giving per giver at All Saints’ remains about 15% below the Diocesan average.
66% of identified givers give below the average for All Saints’ and 34% give more than the average. Consider the implications of this!

These figures are encouraging as they suggest there is room for growth. However, we all know what inflation is doing to expenses and the Church is not immune. These numbers show clearly why we are struggling to maintain the All Saints’ we love. We look forward to sharing this excellent program with all of you and with God’s help fully expect to realize many more blessings for the future of All Saints’ Church.

Jim Finlay
Chair, All Saints’ Church Stewardship Education Committee

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