Stewardship in Advent

This weekend is the end of our Thanksgiving holiday, an American tradition with a distinctly religious foundation, one with a special focus on our obligation of stewardship and generosity to each other, in grateful remembrance of all the blessings God has bestowed upon us. Gratitude lies at the very heart of stewardship.
 
We look ahead less than a month and know that our Christmas collection, one of our two largest special collections of the year, is a necessary part of our ability to support the many ministries, liturgies, and outreach that touch us throughout the year. The dedication of the people of Queen of All Saints to maintain our faith community in times of challenge has always been a hallmark of our parish.
 
We know the COVID years were one of the most difficult times in the lives of many of our parishioners, in their health, the health and lives of their loved ones, and in their own financial security. We also know that the burdens of the pandemic were unevenly felt, with some faring better than others.
 
As you look around the basilica with a new-found sense of joy and fellowship this Advent season we hope you appreciate the sacrifice made by those who came before us, who sat in the same pews we sit in today.
 
We hope you also remember all the times our parish has touched our lives, at all points from the very young to the very old. Our parish remains our anchor, not just as a symbol of our faith but more importantly as an actual force in our lives as we live the words of Christ for each other.
 
Please remember our parish as you decide on your year-end giving this Christmas.