Thank you for visiting the Stewardship and Congregational Development web

page. It is our prayer that you will find information here that will be of service to you and to your parish or congregation.

 

My name is David Smith and I am the diocesan coordinator for Stewardship and Congregational Development. As a disciple of Christ it is a privilege to share in the work of the gospel throughout the Diocese Of Ontario and if I can ever be of assistance to you please feel free to contact me.

 

There are many ways in which parishes can grow in health. To this end we seek to offer a variety of educational opportunities which we trust will equip parishes to grow in their ability to worship and serve.

 

One of the key approaches I use in engaging and supporting parishes is through Natural Church Development. It has been exciting to coach parishes through this strategic planning process. It is a faithful, hopeful approach that invites parishes to engage in ministries that seek to allow God to give growth and health. St Paul described this approach when he said to the Corinthians: "I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth" (1 Corinthians 3:6).  Using Natural Church Development has given parishes an excellent snapshot of their health as well as needed focus and direction in seeking to become healthier. If your parish is interested in learning more about this ministry I would be delighted to speak with you.

 

Throughout the year we also offer workshops on specific stewardship subjects but I am particularly keen to work in parishes, assisting leadership teams in implementing both short term stewardship programs and--more importantly--year round holistic stewardship education initiatives.  Experience shows that parishes with robust stewardship programs are healthier in many ways: they have more vibrant ministry, more engaged volunteers, sounder financial positions, and more fruitful spiritual life. I am always delighted to visit parishes and to offer hands-on assistance with stewardship ministries.

 

A third ministry that I offer to parishes is that of education and support around the implementation of our Screening in Faith Protocol. This important ministry enables parishes to do all that they can to make their communities safe for children, other vulnerable people and, for that matter, every member of the parish. I am always available to consult and to support parish leadership in the implementation of Screening in Faith and to run educational workshops in parishes.

 

For more details on these and other ministries offered through our department browse through our page.

 

Once again thank you for visiting us and we wish you God's peace and grace.