Frequently Asked Questions

Home : Governance : Committees & Commissions : Gratitude/Stewardship : Frequently Asked Questions

Click on any of the Frequently Asked Questions listed below to expand/retract response. Still have questions? Please contact us today!

What is the Theology of Abundance?

The theology of abundance proclaims that God has already given us everything we need. Our joyful task, then, is simply to acknowledge the riches bestowed upon us!

What is the Ministry of Gratitude?

This is the ministry devoted to gathering resources –time, talent and treasure—in support of mission and ministry. In its approach to encouraging a rich outpouring of gifts from the people, it proclaims that the Theology of Abundance is real!

Why not call it what it is – stewardship? Isn’t Gratitude just a warm and fuzzy word for fundraising?

Calling this ministry “Gratitude” points to cause instead of effect. The goal of Stewardship is generosity – abundant giving to the cause of Christ. That’s why we place our focus on the gratitude, the condition preceding generosity! Choosing this word, we commit to inspiring joyful—instead of obligatory, need or guilt-based—giving.

We have a budget to meet! Don’t financial realities get lost in all this talk of Gratitude?

Not at all! A Gratitude-based approach is both daringly open to vision and fearless in discussion of budgets. Gratitude avows that it really is more blessed to give than to receive. And where giving is a good and joyful thing, volunteers find asking others to give is a pleasure! Bottom line, in terms of grace or dollars pledged, we believe grace-based giving will trump guilt every time.

How can the Ministry of Gratitude help my Parish?

The Ministry of Gratitude can help shift focus from scarcity to abundance, from guilt to joy-based giving. We offer program resources and trained consultants. Find us up on the web at . . . !

What does a Gratitude Consultant do?

Invite a consultant in to revitalize your vestry or congregation’s relationship to stewardship. A consultant will work with you to reframe existing programs and develop new ones to foster a spirit of year-round gratitude, and a healthy tradition of giving of time, talent, and treasure.

What is Grateful, Glad and Giving?

Grateful, Glad, and Giving is a year-round gratitude-based program for stewardship—and congregational development! Watch both pledge income and the parish roll grow as you become a more joyous and gratitude-based community.

We’re too busy to take on a year-round approach…

Sometimes it just takes a fresh look at old programs – a new view through the lens of appreciation. Grateful, Glad, and Giving can be used to reframe, refresh or enhance your existing minstries!

I need resources NOW for our pledge drive!

The Commission of Gratitude has enrolled the diocese in TENS (The Episcopal Network for Stewardship), a rich source of proven pledge programs, preaching resources, and materials to teach stewardship. Contact the Commission on Gratitude for more info!

Home : Governance : Committees & Commissions : Gratitude/Stewardship : Frequently Asked Questions