New Theme for 2009-2010: The Twelve Gardens of Stewardship

We want to learn to share because we want to, not because we need to. There should be no controls, no strings attached, and no guarantee when we give unconditionally. That doesn't mean that in retrospect we do not question our decisions; it simply means that we've tried to look at it as a growth experience, always keeping in mind the life of Jesus Christ. I personally see stewardship as a nurturing process. It is, in a sense, an invitation to reassess our priorities. It is ongoing and often painful, but most of all it brings a personal sense of happiness and peace of mind as I continue my journey through life.

The Twelve Gardens of Stewardship is part of an Archdiocesan-wide initiative to focus on how Catholic Stewardship can be our way of Life. Using the image of a garden, we ask ourselves how well we “cultivate” and “tend to” these various areas of our lives:

September: The Garden of Decisions: make well-informed decision, exercise prudence, understanding and collaboration, always mindful of the mission of Jesus.

October : The Garden of Citizenship: be politically aware, involved and active. Stay well informed. Vote.

November : The Garden of Money: Control your money. Deliberately set and keep a budget. Honestly and regularly assess your use of your financial resources.

December : The Garden of Relationships: Nurture relationships with family, friends and those important to you.

January : The Gardens of Body and Emotions: Get proper nutrition, exercise and rest. Avoid smoking and chemical abuse. Strive for emotional growth, development, and balance. Make good humor your priority.

February : The Garden of History: Know and value our history and traditions, especially in regards to making decisions.

March : The Garden of the Soul: cultivate your spiritual life through Mass, prayer, meditation, and study.

April : The Garden of Creation: Care for the environment, recycle, don't waste natural resources.

May : The Gardens of Technology and the Mind: Use technology for good and not for evil; for gaining knowledge and benefitting others. Make learning a lifelong vocation. Continue to develop your knowledge and intellect.

June : The Garden of Art: Appreciate and use the fine arts to expand your knowledge and lift up your spirit.

While these areas may overlap and intersect, each has an important place in the development of our personal vocation. Nurturing these gifts requires prayerful allocation of our time and resources in many areas of our lives.