Telephone: 508-358-7397 CHSWayland@AOL.com |
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| From time to time, members of our parish give talks on the Five T's of Stewardship. |
| On Sunday, September 30, 2007 Jim Metcalf shared his reflections on the Stewardship of Talk. |
| Religious Inventory Worksheet - The Five T's | ||
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| In order for each of us to develop
spiritually we must continuously reflect on the stewardship of our
church family and its mission. The CHS Vestry and Rector have composed
the following worksheet to help guide you with this type of reflection. Because religious and spiritual growth is personal, this worksheet is for personal use. Because religious and spiritual growth is also life-long, this worksheet is meant to be used throughout your life. Please use this worksheet to deepen your commitment and willingness to understand and live Gods Word and your Baptismal Covenant. Each of the five T s below represents an important aspect of stewardship. We ask that you prayerfully reflect on each of these, and make the topics of this worksheet part of your regular conversations with God. |
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| Tithing - The Stewardship of Tithing | ||
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The Old Testament speaks of returning to God a portion of what God has
given the first fruits.
It calls this practice tithing, returning to God a tenth of what one has
received. The New Testament speaks of giving in proportion to what one
has received.
In the story of the poor widow who gave two coins to the treasury Jesus
said that she gave more than the wealthy, since she put in all that she
had to live on. Paul wrote to the Corinthians about putting aside each week whatever extra you earn. The Church today speaks of tithing as an important aspect of spiritual growth and the development of our faith. Whether you choose to work with 10% of an amount that you determine to be your tithing base (see below for suggested guidelines) or strive to give in proportion to all you have received, if you are not already giving proportionally, try to increase your giving until you reach your goal, or more. |
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| Pledge Amounts | ||
| Prior year | $ | |
| Past year | $ | |
| Year ahead | $ | |
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Please contact the CHS treasurer should you need
assistance with these amounts. A) Write in the amount of your pledges for the past year and the year before (estimate if you cannot recall) as a point of reference for your pledge for the year ahead. Consider whether increases in your pledge have, in your view, reflected proportional giving. B) Calculate your tithing goal. Some definitions include 10% of net after taxes, 10% of net after critical or extraordinary expenses (utilities, mortgage, medical, etc.) and/or consideration of your particular circumstances, or 10% of all you have received however it has come to you. |
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| What is your tithing goal? | ||
| Goal | $ | |
| C) Have you made that goal? If not, consider a time line
to get you there.
Consider ways to help meet that time line such as giving a percentage
from your tax refund, bonus checks, or even bottle returns! Are there
expenses you can reduce to help meet your tithing goal? D) Long-term planning may be another way to continue to support the church family. Have you considered estate or will planning? Is this an opportunity you would like to consider? If so, set a goal to start the process. Feel free to speak to the Rector, Wardens, or Treasurer for more information. |
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| Time - The Stewardship of Time | ||
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For everything there is a season and a time for every matter under
heaven.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 A) Have you made a commitment for more family and church time? Are you committed to trying to be in church every Sunday? What might you give up to have more time for your families? B) Have you made a commitment to participate in the church outreach activities that are important to you and your family? |
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| Talent - The Stewardship of Talents | ||
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Use your gifts to help change the lives of others. Let your light shine
before others so that they may see your good works and give glory to
your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5:16 A) What talents have you given to the church? Are there talents you would like to develop? B) Have you considered providing leadership either for an event/program or for the running of the church (vestry/warden)? If not this year, would you be interested in setting a goal for next year? C) How might you put your talents to use for the church either within the walls or outside the walls (outreach)? What goals do you have to introduce your talents? |
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| Treasure - The Stewardship of Your Relationships | ||
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Your relationships with others are a reflection of your relationship
with God. Base all your relationships on Christian values. Treasure
these relationships. A) Are there relationships that need mending in either your own or the churchs family? Can you take the opportunity to use the Bible as a guide in mending these relationships? B) Have you been involved with the church family? Are there opportunities for you to reach out that may interest you? C) Do you use prayer to provide guidance for managing conflict in your family or to help you make difficult decisions? |
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| Talk - The Stewardship of God's Word | ||
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Jesus has commanded us to share our faith and make disciples of all. Go
therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name
of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Matthew 28:19 A) Have you let others know that God has made a difference in your life? Consider sharing with others this upcoming year. B) Are there family members, neighbors, or acquaintances who may benefit from coming to church? Could you invite them to a service, a fellowship event, or an outreach program? C) Do you know the Bible? Consider attending educational opportunities for children and adults such as adult studies and Diocesan workshops, or teaching Sunday school. |
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| In all we do, Let us Bless the Lord. And let us say, Thanks be to God! | ||
