Q. Is Stewardship only about our financial giving?
A. Members of St. Thomas’ are encouraged to give their time, talent and treasure. It is through faithful stewardship of the gifts God has given us that we are able to carry out our responsibility to follow Christ, to come together week-by-week for corporate worship and to work, pray and give for the spread of the kingdom of God.

Q. How do we decide how much time, talent and treasure to give?
A. Christians have aspired to give a minimum of 10% of their income and time in thanksgiving to God. This is from the Old Testament and is relevant to us today. It represents a real sacrifice and a personal investment. The New Testament emphasizes Jesus Christ’s sacrifice for us and the request that we consider all things from Him. We ask that you seek guidance through prayer and follow the leanings of your heart.

Q. Is there a prayer I might say before making my pledge?
A. Barbara Stechert, our Director of Stewardship wrote a prayer for this decision.
Lord, soon I will be asked to make a promise to support your work in the world. As I think about your generosity, help me to act out of the same abundance you so liberally offer me. Keep me from deep reasoning, rationalizing and fear. I know that you always leave enough for me to give to support others. Help me to see what you wish me to share. Let happiness accompany my decision. Remind me to keep you first in my life and to weigh the cost of my pleasures to that of my sacrifices. You have said in James 1: 17 that you never turn away from sending me every free, large, good and perfect gift. May I not cast my shadow, or turn away from others. Amen.

Q. What is our average pledge?
A. St. Thomas’ Church, Whitemarsh has been blessed with the generosity of our parish family. Our average pledge for 2011 is $2600.  In the Pledge Gifts Chart 2011, you see the range of pledges from $20 to $25,000!  Each pledge is an important gift to God and our parish.