Page 6 - October 13, 2019

AmericAn mArtyrs cAtholic church |www.AmericanMartyrs.org
StewardShip
time talent treasure
Commission Chair: Dennis Labriola
Stewardship@AmericanMartyrs.org
Stewardship ... moving us closer to God
Attn Lectors:
You may pick up the new 2020 Lector Workbooks at the Welcome Center
We are not far from our Annual Stewardship Renewal when we reflect on using our God-given gifts to support our families, our parish, and those in need. Since stewardship is often referred to as an attitude of gratitude it seems fitting that this weekend’s readings emphasize gratitude.
Not surprisingly, we have covered gratitude in other messages and, each time we do, I am amazed by the number of books, scientific papers, homilies, essays, etc. that have been written on the subject. Why does it seem there is so little of it in the world?
I couldn’t possibly read all that has been written about gratitude so I don’t have an answer to the question. I did find a very interesting interview that a faith-based organization had with Dr. Robert Emmons, Professor of Psychology, at UC Davis. When asked what gratitude was, Dr. Emmons responded, “Gratitude is an affirmation of the goodness in one’s life and the recognition that the sources of this goodness lie at least partially outside the self.” I’m going out on a limb here, but I’m sure he is saying that we owe a big “Thank You” to someone (maybe God) other than ourselves for who we are.
Another question to the Professor was, “Are you saying that gratitude works for our own self-interest and well-being?” The response says a lot. “Gratitude heals, energizes, and transforms lives in a myriad of ways. Gratitude takes us
outside ourselves where we see ourselves as part of a larger, intricate network of sustaining relationships, relationships that are mutually reciprocal.” It seems to me that he is referring to relationships very similar to what we have in the Body of Christ. He goes on to say, “It (gratitude) is a positive state of mind that gives rise to the passing on of a gift through positive action. As such, gratitude serves as a key link in the dynamic between receiving
and giving. It is not only a response to kindnesses received, but it is also a motivator of future benevolent actions.”
This approach to gratitude seems to say that we all have gifts bestowed on us by someone outside of ourselves and we are expected to share them within our community. Simply put, stewardship must be active in the Body of Christ for the Body to grow!
Please contact us at Stewardship@AmericanMartyrs.org, with questions or comments about Stewardship.
paStOral care
beginning again - Separated Or divOrced
We offer a welcoming and healing atmosphere for those experiencing separation or divorce.
The next meeting is Tuesday, October 15, 7:00-9:00pM in the Holy Family House. The topic is "Sexuality."
Questions? Jenny Attanasio, 310-545-5651
all are welcOme at american martyrS
I am because He is.
All ages and their families in the LGBTQ+
community are welcome to join in our
dialogue to build understanding and
support. We meet on the 2nd Thursday of each month, in the St. Mother Teresa room.
Our next meeting is Thursday, November 14, at 7:30pm.
Questions? Colleen Finnegan, metwou@pacbell.net
Stephen miniStry
deacOn dicK & patti williamS, 310-545-8244
“Some people grumble that roses have thorns;
I am grateful that thorns have roses.” Alphonse Karr
It’s hard to be thankful when your life is in turmoil. If you are experiencing a financial problem, a health crisis, the loss of a job, a crisis of faith, or any of life’s many challenges, you may need someone to help you get to a place where you can feel the love and joy that Jesus has for each and every one of us.
A Stephen Minister can be your confidential partner when times are tough.
If you need someone to talk to, leave a message on our Stephen Ministry confidential phone line, 310-545-8244. Deacon Dick or Patti Williams will meet with you to explore whether a Stephen Minister may be a good fit for you.