Stewardship & Pledge

Dear Parishioners & Friends of St. John,

At St. John, a voluntary program of stewardship has replaced the old dues paying system for determining membership in our parish. As our diocesan leaders have pointed out, stewardship is a more Christian, less secular method of defining membership than paying dues. Because it’s not focused on specific dollar amounts, stewardship encourages people to give what they can afford in time and talent as well as money.

As St. Paul wrote, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:6-8)

Take the time to submit a stewardship pledge card either online or by mail. Those who have pledged will be eligible to vote in the Parish Assembly and run for positions at St. John. Stewardship is a decision each individual must make and be committed to our parish with their time, talent and treasure. I look forward to speaking with anyone who has questions about Stewardship and its functions. Also, as your parish priest, it is my responsibility to ensure that longtime members as well as newcomers are:

• Familiar with the teaching of the Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church
• Baptized and chrismated in the Armenian Church.
• Willing to attend services at St. John regularly.
• Willing to learn the essential rituals of the Armenian Church.
• Active and willing to volunteer at events and programs at St. John.
• Committed to fulfill their pledge by the end of the year.

Stewardship also refers to the responsibility that Christians have in maintaining and using wisely the gifts that God has bestowed upon them. It is our duty to use our gifts wisely and adorn the sacred grounds of our beautiful church with our time, talents and treasure.

Sincerely,

Fr. Guregh Hambardzumyan

Pastor

PS: Please see our 2024 stewardship campaign goal and progress at this link