We have sung and exclaimed this truth today at all the Masses and will continue our joy throughout the 50-day Easter season that culminates in the celebration of Pentecost and the coming of the Holy Spirit. What is our response to this good news?

Christ left us to be in charge of the kingdom.

This is something we say we believe.

And, Stewardship is everything we do after we say we believe.

The apostles brought their diverse gifts to the Church when Christ called them. Jesus called twelve unique personalities to initiate the building of the kingdom. Peter was the natural leader. John the sensitive and caring one who was beloved by Christ. Matthew was the financial talent. Simon and Jude were natural preachers. The same is true at our parish. We have all the unique gifts to share in community right here. Stewardship helps us to break this down so that we will know how to advance the kingdom.

A good steward is one who is learning to give, who is becoming holy.

At All Hallows, the invitation to participate is extended to everyone all the time. During the Easter season, we might look for the special time needed to pray and privately discern our particular gifts. Then at Pentecost, the “birthday of the Church”, our prayers may lead us to a new or renewed time of becoming involved here, in our Catholic community.

There is always the vision of what a great parish can be. When we practice good stewardship, making time for and sharing our resources with the parish and those in need, it happens.