Commitment is defined by the Cambridge Dictionary as:
- a promise or firm decision to do something.
- a willingness to give your time and resources to a job, activity, or something that you believe in.
- something you must do or deal with that takes your time.
Those of us who follow the Christian way of life are regularly asked to make a variety of commitments. We are invited to grow, to learn, to share, to worship, and to witness. This Sunday is Commitment Sunday at St. Bart’s and we will celebrate and bless the financial commitments made by friends and members of the parish to materially support its ministries.
In life we make promises to support the things we love the most and we give our precious time and resources to the things in which we most believe. The theme of this year’s pledge campaign is “Make A Joyful Pledge & Find Joy in Return.” Hundreds of people have already joyfully made financial commitments to St. Bart’s and they have discovered the nearly indescribable joy of having been generous to a great cause about which they care deeply.
- Some people might say, “I don’t have a lot of financial resources. Others with more resources should support the church.” The truth is that most of the people who support St. Bart’s are not wealthy and they make sacrificial commitments to the parish because they understand the spiritual benefits of their generosity. Giving to the church changes them for good.
- Some people might say, “I give to other charitable entities. Why should I give to St. Bart’s?” I believe the religious community is the “engine” which drives the majority of philanthropic giving and social good in this world. It would be difficult to find a hospital, orphanage, or a social services agency in this city which did not find its origins in the Judeo-Christian faith community. We need healthy faith communities in order to advocate for moral decision-making and for peace and justice for all. Additionally, I believe a dollar given to the church goes further than the monies given to most any other charitable organization.
I hope you will prayerfully consider making a commitment to St. Bartholomew’s Church this year. I can think of no better investment for your time, your talent, or your treasure. If you have made a financial commitment in the past, I hope you will consider increasing your gift to meet the challenges of the current moment.
Every week someone tells me how much St. Bart’s means to them.
Every week someone tells me how St. Bart’s has been life-giving and life-changing for them.
Please allow your generosity to meet your passion for the ministries of this great church. It will be a commitment worth making.
Grace & Peace,
The Right Reverend Dean E. Wolfe, D.D.
Rector