“Stewardship is About Looking at What We Have and What We Need to Keep It”

A few weeks ago, Pastor Mel introduced the upcoming stewardship campaign, imparting this bit of wisdom, “Stewardship is about looking at what we have and what we need to keep it.” I was moved by this and decided it would be a good springboard to share my thoughts about stewardship.

I typically don’t care for Stewardship Campaigns – everyone is looking for money, more money. Who likes that? Sometimes I feel as if the time and effort I put into volunteering should be enough. But is it? It does not pay for salaries, snow removal, supplies, etc. What to do? What to do?

Well, the Mission Possible Stewardship Campaign has taken the sting out of giving for me. Rather than concentrating on dipping into my wallet or savings account, the campaign is focused on taking stock of everything I get from being a member of SUM and what I can do to maintain it, in a fashion I have become accustomed to, so to speak. I believe our Mission is Possible.

I recently watched the last interview Jane Goodall taped earlier this year, which was intended to be shown after her death. In it, she shared these parting words, “What message do I want to leave? I want to make sure that you all understand that each and every one of you has a role to play. You may not know it, you may not find it, but your life matters, and you are here for a reason….You have it in your power to make a difference. Don’t give up. There is a future for you. Do your best while you’re still on this beautiful Planet Earth that I look down upon from where I am now.”

We are all here for a reason, and I believe that being a member of SUM matters. It is our responsibility and our honor to participate in its growth and continued success through our stewardship, our volunteering, and our passion.

This has not been an easy year for SUM. We lost our beloved Pastor Gene and Deacon Deb. And yet we endure and at times, dare I say it, we thrive. We have welcomed Pastor DH, a minister full of ideas and a passion that can revitalize the church. But he cannot do it alone, and he cannot do it on a shoestring. I am not a wealthy woman, but I am rich in my faith, friends, and my hope for the future. I know I can make a difference, and so can you. Help us make our Mission Possible!

Eileen Brogan