The main presentation began with some history, when we heard how the American Bishops 1992 Pastoral Letter ‘Stewardship, a Disciples Response’ had triggered a process of renewal in many parishes across the USA, and was now being introduced in the UK, most notably in Portsmouth Diocese. We learned that when parishioners begin to realise that they possess nothing except the things that are Gods gifts to them, given freely, their sense of gratitude prompts them become more generous in using those gifts – time, talent, and treasure – in all areas of their life, and often for the benefit of others. We also heard how many American parishes have experienced rising Mass attendance, growth in vocations and spirituality, and an increasing commitment to discipleship and evangelisation.

We took time to discuss what we had heard with those around us, and we began to understand that Stewardship is not a short term training programme, but a call to change the way we live as we try to be better Stewards and better Disciples. This is an on-going process.

A highlight of the evening (apart from the very welcome range of refreshments!) was when three of the delegates who had attended the International Stewardship Conference in Chicago told us how Stewardship was changing them and how they believed it might bring about reinvigoration of our own parishes.

We had a further opportunity for discussing what we had heard before being invited to take part in the planned Stewardship Formation programme. The programme is intended to help everyone with an interest to learn more about Stewardship and to begin to see and plan ways in which it can change our lives and the lives of those around us.

Many thanks to all involved in planning and presenting the evening.

Sign-up forms are available at St Joseph’s, St Mary’s and St Pius, together with a list of dates. If you require more information, please contact any of eight people who went to Chicago with Father Colin:   Adrian Burnett, Una Corning, David Loveder, Ken Maguire, Sue and Chris Richardson, Sam Richmond and Sarah Style.