As Christians, we are called to live our lives Eucharistically, in thankfulness. If we are truly thankful, and we recognize that nothing belongs to us, it is all the Lord’s and we are His stewards, then we will give. The primary way we give is to/through the Church. Giving to the Church should not be perceived as contributing to the “organization” and those working for it. The local body of Christ manifests God’s love in providing for the needy both within and outside the Church. In giving, we help maintain the Church, and we entrust the Church with the task of finding and giving to those in need. The earliest Christians did the same—the Acts of the Apostles describe how
“all who believed were together and had all things in common, and they sold their possessions and goods and distributed them to all, as any had need” (Acts 2:44-45)
For the Church and charity to run smoothly, we must give regularly. Jesus Himself did this, in obedience to the Temple law of tithing. Although we are out of the habit, “tithing” (10%) should be our standard as well. We must prayerfully establish a fixed portion for our offering, and commit this amount to the Church in the annual pledging program. This portion is “off the top,” not the bottom; which is to say, it is our best, representing the whole which belongs to God. It is not the amount that counts, but that we truly give what we can which is always more than we think. Our Lord praised the poor widow who gave only two coins, saying she gave more than the rich who gave proudly.
What is a stewardship pledge?
A stewardship pledge is a commitment, made after deliberate and prayerful consideration, to contribute a specific amount of money to the parish community. It is a reflection of your gratitude for God’s abundant grace in your life and is a holy offering that we can use to grow our relationship with Him. Pledging enables the parish to prepare a realistic budget for the coming calendar year. We hope that all households will make a stewardship pledge -regardless of the amount- as an expression of a vital commitment to St Spiridon Cathedral.
Is there a minimum amount I have to pledge in order to be a member at St Spiridon Cathedral?
No, all gifts are gratefully received at St Spiridon. We are glad you’re here.
What’s a good way to figure out what my pledge will be?
Prayer is a great start! Pledging and giving regularly is a great spiritual discipline. The Diocese of the West considers pledging a financial commitment to your parish as a requirement for membership. All members are urged to make a yearly commitment of financial support to the parish. We encourage you to give whatever you can!
What if my circumstances change during the year?
Your pledge to St Spiridon Cathedral is not a commitment set in stone. It’s a way for us to prepare our annual budget. If you find that your financial circumstances change in the course of a year – that’s OK – your pledge can be revised.
How can I pay my pledge?
St Spiridon accepts cards, checks, and cash (through giving envelopes – found in the collection basket). You can also add St Spiridon as a payee in your bank’s online bill pay feature.
How can I submit my pledge?
You can submit your pledge by filling it online below or by filling out a pledge form and handing it directly to the parish Financial Secretary or placing it in an envelope and mailing to the church office.