Stewardship (Customize for parish here)

Question for Reflection Complete the “My Gifts” self-assessment Discuss with one another: What are some of the gifts you have been given? In what ways do you share those gifts with God and with others?

A Sign of God’s Truth It is the responsibility of the married couple to let themselves be a visible sign of God’s truth Every good gift comes from God (James 1:17)

Stewardship Stewardship – the way in which we use our gifts and share them with others Stewardship calls us to share with others in ways that give them a glimpse of God himself and, in turn, lead them to give glory to God (Matthew 5:16)

The Holy Trinity and Stewardship Although there is disparity in the world, the cooperation and giving within our families demonstrate good stewardship Children – “the supreme gift of marriage” – Husband and wife are imaging God’s creative power – Parents image God in the ways in which they provide for their children

Stewardship and the Image of Jesus and the Church Self-sacrificing love Stewardship of time Crosses we bear together

Budgeting Don’t buy what you can’t afford Don’t get into unsecured debt Plan for emergencies Focus on needs first Learn the art of compromise Don’t keep secrets from one another See “The Family Budget” p. 58

Questions for Reflection What are some of the gifts you hope to give to God and to the world through your marriage? What challenges in the area of stewardship do you anticipate?

Prayer See prayers, p. 57