Stewardship Campaign FAQ – Key Questions
Purpose & Theology of Giving

What is stewardship, and why is it important at St. Anne’s?

Stewardship is our grateful response to God’s generosity. In Creation, God made everything that is, everything that will be, and gave it all to us to steward. Our responsibility is to carry on the Love that inspired this original gift by using our gifts to make the world a better place, to seek and serve God in our neighbor, to work for justice and peace. All of our gifts – time, talent, and treasure – work together to enact and enable the Mission of the Church.

Why does the church ask for a pledge instead of just passing the plate?

Our church uses pledges, or anticipated income for the coming year, to generate a budget from which we can create a spending plan for our ministries. Some members can anticipate their income for the coming year, and we ask them to make a pledge or a promise based on that. Whether a member chooses to make a gift through pledge or by other means, every gift matters.

Is giving a spiritual practice? How is it connected to my faith?

Giving is a deeply scriptural and spiritual practice, rooted in our most ancient traditions. Scripture reminds us to give freely (Matthew 10:8); and to do good and share with others (Hebrews 13:16); and that even the smallest gifts matter (Luke 21:1-4). Our traditions remind us that giving as we have received is a part of our commitment to our community of faith and our neighbors.

As with any spiritual practice, it needs – practice! The more we share what we have learned, acquired, received, and understood with our church and the world, the more deeply connected we become to the original gift of Creation.

Adapted from text © 2026 The Episcopal Network for Stewardship (TENS). All rights reserved.
Used with permission.