In the Episcopal tradition, stewardship is increasingly understood not merely as an annual pledge drive or a response to budget deficits, but as the active cultivation of relationship and community connection.

Core Principles:

• Connection Over Transaction: True stewardship flows naturally from deep congregational engagement. When parishioners feel connected to worship, formation, and service, financial generosity follows.
• The Ministry of the Laity: As outlined in the Book of Common Prayer Catechism (p. 855), the ministers of the Church are lay persons, bishops, priests, and deacons—in that order. Stewardship is a shared lay responsibility, not just a clergy or vestry concern.
• Everyday Stewardship: Broadly defined, stewardship includes activities that honor parish history, care for the environment, invest in children, and pursue racial reconciliation.
• Digital Tools: Implementing systems like Digital Faith to bridge the gap between Sundays lowers barriers to participation and keeps the community connected to liturgical life.

See also: news-3215933, parish-systems.