Your Stewardship Pledge
Orthodox Christian Stewardship is a way of life, which acknowledges accountability, reverence, and responsibility before God. A primary goal of Stewardship is to promote spiritual growth and strengthen faith. Becoming a Steward begins when we believe in God, to whom we give our love, loyalty and trust and act on those beliefs. As Stewards, we affirm that every aspect of our lives comes as a gift from Him. Stewardship calls on the faithful to cheerfully offer back to God a portion of the gifts with which they have been blessed.
An Orthodox Christian Steward is an active participant in the life of the Church. The parish encourages all who accept the Orthodox Faith to become practicing Stewards. Each year the Steward is expected to carefully review his or her personal circumstances and make a commitment of time, talent, and treasure to support the Parish and her Ministries, which in turn support the National Ministries of our Archdiocese, Metropolises, and related institutions.
To become a Steward of Saint Demetrios, we ask that you fill out a commitment pledge card every year.
You may do this by submitting an Online Stewardship pledge card.
If you prefer to send a Stewardship pledge card by mail, click here to download a paper pledge card.
With questions, please contact Maria Barbas at (206) 631-2505 or mbarbas@saintdemetrios.com.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT STEWARDSHIP
What does it mean to be a Steward of the parish?
Membership in the Orthodox Church begins at baptism (Chrismation for some) and continues thorughout 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. Our Archdiocese requires each parish to distinguish between voting members and non-voting members. A voting member is over 18 years of age and turns in a signed stewardship commitment card, committing a portion of time, talent and treasure to the Church. The Archdiocese also requires the voting member to remain current through the year on their commitments. Keep in mind that true membership in the Body of Christ involves living according to His word and within the Church.
Why must I commit to give a specific amount?
Please keep in mind that your stewardship of money is kept in the strictest of confidence. However, we do compile the amounts anticipated to better plan our budget.
What if I cannot fulfill my stewardship commitment?
During the course of a year, circumstances change. 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 a part of this parish.
Online Chapel
Saturday before Nativity
Saints and Feasts Commemorated
Visit the Online Chapel for more daily readings, hymns, a monthly calendar of saints and feasts, and more.
Lord Jesus Christ, Thou art the good steward, who redeemed Adam and Eve of their failed stewardship by offering Thyself for the life of the world. Thou didst teach us in the feeding of the multitudes that whatever we give to God is returned to us multiplied. Thou didst praise those good and faithful servants in the parable of the talents who returned to the Master their gifts. So help us to learn the joy of stewardship, remembering that everything we have comes from Thee and belongs to Thee. We know, Lord, that we often live in fear of the future and insecurity. Help us to remember the lilies of the field and so to trust in Thy providence. Grant to us a cheerful and generous spirit. Enkindle in the hearts of all Thy people a zealous love for Thee. For Thou art the Good Steward, and to Thee we give thanks, praise and glory, together with Thy Father who is from everlasting and Thine all holy good and life-giving Spirit now and ever and onto the ages of ages. Amen
If you are interested in becoming a steward at our parish, please take a moment to review the Stewardship Booklet. It explains how offerings are used by the church and can assist with possible amounts to tithe, if you are curious. For the same amount as a latte a day, you'll see that you can make a tremendous difference to our parish.
When you feel ready, please visit the following page to learn more about filling out a Stewardship Commitment Pledge Card - Online Pledge Card
Visit our eGiving page to learn more about offering your gifts online as well.
Thank you for your cooperation and support!