Our 2018 stewardship renewal theme is a simple phrase. Yet, it challenges each of us to consider the impact we are making – or are willing to make – in our Saint Agnes faith community and beyond.

In Matthew’s Gospel, we learn about the Sermon on the Mount. It is the longest piece of teaching from Jesus in the New Testament and begins with a very recognizable portion of Scripture, the Beatitudes. Why do they strike such a chord with us? Is it because we learned them as children? Or perhaps it is because the succinct and strikingly clear teachings form many of the foundational planks of the Christian way of life. Our stewardship theme asks us to consider a directive Jesus gives after outlining the Beatitudes.

You are light for the world. A city built on a hill-top cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp to put it under a tub; they put it on the lamp-stand where it shines for everyone in the house. In the same way your light must shine in people’s sight, so that, seeing your good works, they may give praise to your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16

More than 2,000 years later, Jesus’ words still hold great meaning. They also continue to challenge us as people of faith. It isn’t enough to be a spectator. We are called to action – to do good in a way that people see it.

At this time of stewardship renewal, please consider the needs of our Saint Agnes Community as well as how your time, talent and treasure can help meet those needs. Are you willing to stretch beyond what you have always done and try something new? Are you willing to be the spark? Will you allow God to use you as a light for the world?

Stewardship renewal is our opportunity to say “thank you” to God by committing to share a just and fair portion of our time, talents, and financial blessings to continue to do His work. By completing, returning, and then fulfilling your stewardship intention form, you are demonstrating your desire to continue as a vital part of the body of believers who gather as Saint Agnes Catholic Community. You are accepting Jesus’ directive to be the light. It starts with . . . a spark.