APBA, Stewardship
I recently attended a meeting of my professional organization, the Association of Parish Business Administrators (APBA). I find it useful to learn from colleagues throughout our Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. At the same time, I can share things I’ve learned.
One of the meeting’s highlights was a talk by Jeanne Schaaf* of the Catholic Community Foundation of Minnesota (CCF). Jeanne spoke on Stewardship as a Way of Life. Jeanne also shared this thoughtful piece, from our Archdiocesan Stewardship website:
“Who is a Christian disciple? One who responds to Christ’s call, follows Jesus, and shapes their life in imitation of Christ’s.
“Who is a Christian steward? One who receives God’s gifts gratefully, cherishes and tends them in a responsible and accountable manner, shares them in justice and love with others, and returns them with increase to the Lord.”
As Jeanne summed up, “Stewardship is a disciple’s response.”
I recall hearing good messages about stewardship back in the 80s, when the catch phrase was “Time, Treasure, Talent.” That’s evolved over the years, and I’m now hearing the phrase, “Prayer, Participation, Generosity.”
I like the additional nuances in the new phrasing, as there are multiple ways to be generous—dare I say, through time, talent and treasure? I also welcome the emphasis on prayer and participation.
*Jeanne helped organize our first Preparing for Heaven (PFH) workshop last November, so some of you might recall meeting her then. PFH workshops feature information about funeral planning, estate planning, and more—as well as a spiritual message from a priest.
I’m delighted to announce that we are organizing another PFH workshop. Please save Thursday, November 7, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. We’ll have more information in future bulletins.
Have a great week!
Phil Grant, Administrator
Safe Environment Coordinator
651-224-9793
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