This quotation from Hutchinson native, Bishop John J. McRaith, is used in the preface to the Bishop’s document Stewardship: A Disciple’s Response. In the year 2003, the Diocese of New Ulm was blessed with a number of substantial gifts, given in response to discipleship. The combined value of these gifts is $649,955.

The notion of "stewardship" is rooted in "a spirit of gratitude:" all that we have has been given to us by God. The important word to appreciate is "given." No matter how talented or educated or wealthy any of us may be, we have not earned it: we are using the gifts that God has given to us. Therefore, in a spirit of sharing or stewardship, we graciously give back or share what we have received. Stewardship involves not only money but time and talent as well.

There are several dimensions to stewardship. First, we have a responsibility to assist our own parish to carry out the mission of Jesus. Secondly, we have a responsibility to assist the diocesan Church in providing ministries that parishes cannot provide by themselves and to help the universal Church reach out to people all over the world. Finally, we have a responsibility to steward our assets or estates before we die. Stewardship is a response to following Jesus.

In the near future, the Diocese of New Ulm plans to announce some new methods and opportunities for diocesan stewardship and the stewardship of assets. All contributions and donations, no matter what size, are gratefully received because they come from the heart as a response to discipleship.

For further information about making a donation to the Diocese of New Ulm or one of its funds, please contact Tom Holzer, diocesan Director of Finance, Diocesan Pastoral Center, 1400 6th Street North, New Ulm, MN 56073; phone: (507) 359-2966; e-mail: dnu@dnu.org