Stewardship
Christian Stewardship Is...
…learning how to be a responsible and concerned caretaker of Christ’s Church; it is learning how to enjoy Church life and be happy in Church work, for in Her dwells the fullness of the Spirit of God.
…our active commitment to use all our time, talent and treasure for the benefit of humankind in grateful acknowledgment of Christ’s redeeming love.
…caring for the needs of others.
…offering one’s self to God as He offered Himself to us.
…what a person does after saying “I believe…”, as proof of that belief.
…devotion and service to God and His Church as persons, as families, as diocese/metropolis, as national Church and as Church universal.
How do I become a member of the parish?
Membership in the Orthodox Church begins at Baptism (Chrismation for some) and continues throughout our life. We are united with Christ through the sacraments, or mysteries, of the Church and through our faithful offering of our entire selves to Jesus Christ.
Orthodox Christians interested in becoming a member of our Holy Cross parish need only to speak to Fr. Theodore and/or any Parish Council member.
Non-Orthodox who are interested in becoming a member of Holy Cross may meet with Fr. Theodore so that their journey to Orthodoxy can be guided thoughtfully as a catechumen and the decision to become Orthodox can be made prayerfully and with peace and spiritual resolve.
What if I cannot fulfill my stewardship commitment?
Circumstances change from time to time and all you need to do is let us know so we can plan and budget accordingly. Your stewardship is valued because it is made out of your love for God and His Church. Please do not be concerned if you are unable to meet your stewardship commitment – we are glad you are part of this parish!
Why should I commit to give a tithe?
Tithing is a command in the Old Testament and the New Testament. Tithing is putting your faith into action. Your tithe provides Holy Cross with the funds needed to fulfill its mission.
What is my tithe used for?
The money you tithe is used to pay the salaries of those who work for the Church and to pay for the upkeep and maintenance of the buildings. It is used to provide education of our Orthodox Christian faith to children and adults. Tithe money in our church is used for running of the church and its ministries.
The measure of what you give is more precious in the eyes of the Lord when you give with your heart. This is why tithing is so personal. It truly is between you and God.
Always remember and answer two questions when considering the amount you tithe:
- Is my tithe the best I can do?
- Do I have a peace about the amount I have pledged?
When you truthfully answer “yes” to both of these questions, you are fulfilling this important part of God’s plan for your life.
Treasure
In gratitude for God’s blessings, I/we commit to Christ and His Church the following amount:
(Γιά τις ευλογίες τού Θεού υποσχόμαστε να προσφέρουμε στον Κύριό μας και στην Εκκλησία Του)
Click on the button to print a copy of the Stewardship Form
What are other ways I can give?
Stewardship extends beyond tithing contributions. You can support the church by making a general donation or for specific for liturgical supplies. These offerings help sustain our worship and create a sacred space for prayer and reflection. Your generosity in these ways is a meaningful expression of faith and love for our community.
