2026 Stewardship Campaign
We’ve reached 85% of our financial goal! We are so close to our goal of $400,000.
Our stewardship theme this year is Giving, Growing, Building. These three words capture who we are and who God is calling us to be. When we give, we grow as disciples. When we grow, we build the church God dreams for us—a church of welcome, compassion, justice, and hope.
This past year has been a living witness to that truth. Because of your generosity, St. Mary’s has launched new ministries – SMART (St. Mary’s Advocacy Resource Team), Lunch & Learn, the Here Now Worship feeding ministry, and Eucharistic Visitors. We unveiled a new website, with a welcome video at its heart that shares the joy and Spirit of St. Mary’s. We have also weathered staff transitions, welcomed new leaders, and embraced many new members who are enriching our parish life. Each of these is a sign of growth – growth that comes from faithful giving and builds up the Body of Christ.
Looking ahead, our strategic planning shows a future where St. Mary’s continues giving, growing, and building: through new liturgies, expanded education, online outreach, and the musical gifts of our new Music Director, Dr. Mijin Choi.
To live into this vision, we are setting two goals for the coming year:
- Increase pledge commitments by 6%, reaching $400,000.
- Grow pledging households by 10%, reaching 156 members.
We are in the middle of our annual pledge drive, and while we’ve had many faithful responses, we’re not quite where we need to be yet. In two weeks, on Ingathering Sunday, November 23, we’ll gather to celebrate and give thanks for all who have made their pledge for the coming year. If you haven’t yet turned in your pledge card, I hope you’ll take a moment to do so – either by mailing it in or bringing it with you that morning.
Our Stewardship goals are not just about a budget – they ensure St. Mary’s remains strong and vibrant, ready to carry out the ministry entrusted to us. Every pledge, large or small, declares: I believe in St. Mary’s mission. I believe in a church that is giving, growing, and building God’s kingdom here and now.
Pledging allows us to budget for our future. What matters most is that each of us participates, because stewardship is not only about what we give – it is about who we are becoming as followers of Christ.
We are excited for the future God is unfolding among us, and grateful to be walking this journey with you. Please reach out to me or a member of our Stewardship Committee if you have questions—we would be glad to talk with you. There is also a section of Stewardship Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) below, for your review and further understanding of how you can impact St. Mary’s and our community through your financial gift.
Meet our Stewardship Committee: Marian Ferguson, Arlene Antonicelli and Wes Blair.
Stewardship – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is stewardship, and why is it important?
Stewardship is the practice of taking care of the resources God has entrusted to us—our time, talents, and finances—to support the church’s mission and ministry. At St. Mary’s, stewardship enables us to carry out God’s work, supporting worship, outreach, and the day-to-day operations that keep our church thriving. - Why should I make a financial pledge?
Pledging is a tangible way to express your commitment to St. Mary’s and its ministries. It allows us to plan our budget responsibly, ensuring we can fund key areas like worship, music, Christian education, outreach, and pastoral care. When you pledge, you help secure the future of our church, making it possible to grow and respond to the needs of the community. - Does it matter how much I pledge?
Every pledge, regardless of the amount, makes a difference. We encourage prayerful consideration of what you can give. Pledging is more about participation than the size of the gift – collectively, our gifts enable the church to fulfill its mission. - Why give financially when St. Mary’s has an endowment?
While the endowment is a blessing that helps sustain us, it is not enough to cover all our needs. Endowment funds are typically invested for long-term stability and are often restricted in how they can be used. Your financial gifts allow us to meet our operating expenses and expand our ministries without relying on the endowment, ensuring the church remains vibrant and active today and in the future. - How are my contributions used?
Your contributions support everything from Sunday worship and music to outreach programs and maintaining the church building. They also enable us to pay staff, run educational programs, and care for the wider community. Every dollar directly supports the life and mission of St. Mary’s. - Can I change my pledge during the year?
Yes, you can adjust your pledge at any time if your financial situation changes. Simply reach out to our stewardship team, and they will assist you in making any necessary adjustments. - Is my pledge confidential?
Yes, all pledges are confidential. Only the rector, stewardship team and the finance office have access to pledge information. - What if I can’t give much this year?
We understand that financial circumstances vary, and we deeply appreciate any amount you are able to pledge. The important thing is participation, as your pledge is a sign of your commitment to St. Mary’s community and mission. - How do I make a pledge?
You can make a pledge by filling out a pledge card available at the church, or you can pledge online through our website, www.stmarysbarnstable.org, and click the Give Today button at the top of the home page. If you have any questions, the stewardship team is happy to assist you. - What happens if we exceed our pledge goals?
Exceeding our goals allows St. Mary’s to expand its ministry and outreach efforts, providing more support for those in need, enhancing our programs, and ensuring our facilities are well-maintained for generations to come.