About Us 
Why We Give
Brian Angerame shared this report at the conclusion of the 2011 Stewardship Campaign.
We have heard from our fellow parishioners, Jen Kepner, Janet Nobles, and Lexi Gaillard. All of them gave tear-jerking monologues about what St Matthews has meant to them. I think they were amazing testimonials of how St. Matthews has inspired them, and how they in turn are examples of Christ, right here in Wilton.Notice, they did not scream “Get out your checkbooks!” (that’s my job and Glenn’s job!) But what they did talk about what talk about, in essence, was spiritual giving and faith – giving in to the notion that all we have is from God alone.
And they talked about how they give back to God, and their community, their parish and their families. They are living proof that stewardship is not about getting St. Matthews to a budget goal – it about getting US to OUR goal – for each of us to be the best examples of Christ that we can be.
Their faithfulness should inspire us and lead us to be better examples of Christ in the world. So if Jesus Christ says turn the other cheek? Turn it. Give up your coat? You betcha. If Jesus Christ says give 10% back to God, try to get there. Not all in one year, although that would be great. Set a goal – if you are giving 2% now, take it up a percent a year until you get there.
Your giving financially should be proportional to your ability. Just like giving of time and talent. Start this year - if you already filled out a pledge card, fill out another one with an increase in giving back, and start of the journey of getting to 10%.
Set another goal - If you have not been as involved as you want to be in outreach – do it, get involved – Steve Petitt is right there – he’ll sign you up. Do you have children in church school? Sign up to teach. It’s easy. I promise.
Set a goal. Stewardship is not a November activity – it is about Christians doing Christian things, all year round.
So you see, it’s really not about getting St. Matthews to its budget goal – its about all of US getting to OUR goals. If we do that, we will be stronger examples of Christ in the world – and St. Matthew’s ability to comfort and nourish others will flourish.
It’s fitting that this time of year we start New Years resolutions – and it is also the time of year we say thanks. Stewardship, and increasing your giving of your time, talent and treasure - is about both of those things.
Click here to read Jen Kepner's talk on stewardship.
