In this article, John Patrick Herold argues that the perceived "pastor shortage" in the Episcopal Church is actually a stewardship crisis—specifically, an erosion of the connective tissue binding parishioners to their communities.

Key Concepts:

• Redefining Stewardship: Stewardship is not merely about the pledge drive; it is about showing up, investing in neighbors, and building deep relationships. Generosity follows connection.
• Holistic Ministry: Parishes like St. Anne's (Annapolis) demonstrate multi-layered stewardship through diverse activities: scholarships, Vacation Bible Camp, Truth and Reconciliation work ("Say My Name"), and cemetery preservation.
• Digital Connection: Tools like Digital Faith function as Connectional Community Management Systems, integrating Book of Common Prayer devotions and online giving to maintain relationships between Sundays.
• The Baptismal Ministry: Echoing the BCP Catechism, Herold notes that lay persons are the first order of ministry, making stewardship a shared responsibility of the entire congregation.

See also: parish-systems, stewardship.