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  THE VOICES OF THE WORK Giorgio Vasari, sixteenth century author of The Lives of the Artists, called them “perfect in every way,” the “finest masterpiece ever made.” Overcome by their beauty, Michelangelo labeled them the “Gates of Paradise.” Both men were speaking of the great bronze doors on the historic Florentine Baptistry decorated with a series of sculpted and cast panels designed and created by the studio of Lorenzo Ghiberti. The Florentine genius won the prized commission as a respected twenty-one year old Read Complete Article »  A Willingness to Change One’s Mind During a national election year, debates on the major issues are only one piece of a puzzle that begins to be assembled by media, supporters of candidates and their critics. A somewhat commonplace accusation today, the notion that someone has changed his or her mind on an issue has yielded the term “flip-flopper,” no longer a moniker for the coed fond of inexpensive single-band … Read Complete Article »  Stay Awhile. Stick Around. Serve. A thoughtful guest never assumes a host wants to extend a visit, but doubt is quickly erased by a sincere invitation to stay. “Don’t leave now. Stick around. Stay awhile.” Even if other commitments mean it’s time to go, the opportunity for additional, shared fellowship is always welcome. With a knowing grin, those who travel or relocate often … Read Complete Article »  Our Father’s Own In 1976, the year of the great American Bicentennial celebration, many of the automobiles that carried dignitaries through a thousand community parades were the nation’s best-selling cars at the time, the several versions of the Oldsmobile Cutlass. Just three decades ago, only two brands—Chevrolet and Ford—sold more cars than… Read Complete Article » |
SEPTEMBER 2008 Volume 5, Issue 9 All is a Gift from God. Stewardship Today is a monthly publication for parishioners whose mission is to assist Catholics in understanding and embracing the importance of Stewardship in our daily lives. Stewardship is the acknowledgement that all we are and all we possess are gifts that God has given us for our temporary use and for our use in helping our fellow man. Embracing Stewardship as a way of life starts with the personal need within each of us to return to God a thankful portion of our time in the form of prayer, our talents in the form of ministry to others, and the treasure He has entrusted to our care as gifts to His glory. A Total Stewardship Diocese Copyright © 2008 Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge. Reproduction of this material is prohibited without advance written permission from the publisher. All rights reserved.  |
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IN THIS ISSUE: TOP STORY: » The Voices of the Work PRAYER: » A Willingness to Change One’s Mind MINISTRY: » Stay Awhile. Stick Around. Serve. FINANCE: » Our Father’s Own MONTHLY SPOTLIGHT: » Ministry Spotlight in the Baton Rouge Diocese The Stewardship Office’s Annual Curriculum BACK TO TOP ^  |
THE VOICES OF THE WORK Giorgio Vasari, sixteenth century author of The Lives of the Artists, called them “perfect in every way,” the “finest masterpiece ever made.” Overcome by their beauty, Michelangelo labeled them the “Gates of Paradise.” Both men were speaking of the great bronze doors on the historic Florentine Baptistry decorated with a series of sculpted and cast panels designed and created by the studio of Lorenzo Ghiberti. The Florentine genius won the prized commission as a respected twenty-one year old and completed work on what proved to be several sets of doors just three years before his death. For centuries, awed visitors have marveled at the product of Ghiberti’s primary artistic output. The panels are truly remarkable, created at a cost—in the words of one historian—that rivaled the entire defense budget of the city of Florence. The first door alone bore twenty-eight panels and weighed over fifteen tons. With the aid of such accomplished assistants as the gifted Donatello, Ghiberti completed a work that rivals the finest of the Renaissance, a unique combination of engineering, craftsmanship, art and an uncompromised commitment to detail and innovative technique. As Ghiberti himself said, “To do this, one must place art before the chasing after money.” The city fathers of Florence chose wisely, investing in a legacy that has blessed millions for centuries. The parishioners of St. Jean Vianney in the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge have chosen to similarly invest, and in both of their decisions is a lesson for all of us. Given the opportunity, wouldn’t we all want to invest our resources in things that last? In God’s providence, the oldest structure in Florence remains to this day and the artwork of Lorenzo Ghiberti does as well. And the award-winning facilities of the Parish of St. Jean Vianney are a lasting testimony to the considered and prayerful plans of a congregation with both the present and the future in mind. Florentine artwork illustrating stories and characters from the Scriptures—with astounding and captivating detail—has granted reflective patrons centuries of instructional contemplation. The artwork filling St. Jean Vianney similarly encourages and challenges, rewarding parishioners with heightened, meaningful insight into the particulars of both scriptural and liturgical reflection. Regrettably, with age, even the finest work of the most talented artisans wears away. Natural disasters and human conflicts indiscriminately reduce properties of both modest and great value to little more than rubble. Facilities and their finery fade, yet their intangible values often outlive them. Many would argue the genius of Ghiberti’s pupil Donatello far exceeded his teacher’s, perpetuating a legacy of excellence and innovative artistry. The untold millions blessed by the voices of the work form a timeless connection to the works themselves. St. Paul instructed the church at Corinth with these words: “Whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God.” And he invited them to pursue lives of common purpose by following his lead, “not seeking my own benefit but that of many.” Your prayerful contributions bless so many people. Each and every offering of the resources God has placed in your care carries the potential of extended benefit far beyond the mere value of the gift. Some investments last a long, long time. A few even last forever. Send Stewardship Today to a Friend |
“Anybody can do any amount of work, so long as it isn’t the work he is supposed to be doing.”
~ Robert Benchley ~ |
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IN THIS ISSUE: TOP STORY: » The Voices of the Work PRAYER: » A Willingness to Change One’s Mind MINISTRY: » Stay Awhile. Stick Around. Serve. FINANCE: » Our Father’s Own MONTHLY SPOTLIGHT: » Ministry Spotlight in the Baton Rouge Diocese The Stewardship Office’s Annual Curriculum BACK TO TOP ^ |
A WILLINGNESS TO CHANGE ONE’S MIND During a national election year, debates on the major issues are only one piece of a puzzle that begins to be assembled by media, supporters of candidates and their critics. A somewhat commonplace accusation today, the notion that someone has changed his or her mind on an issue has yielded the term “flip-flopper,” no longer a moniker for the coed fond of inexpensive single-band rubber sandals but one reserved for the public figure who seems to have changed positions for little more than pragmatic reasons. Changing one’s mind is nothing new, of course, and Jesus selected such a situation to illustrate an important spiritual point. As recorded in the twenty-first chapter of the Gospel of St. Matthew, the Lord asked an audience that included the contrary Jewish priests and elders what they thought of such a thing. “ ‘What is your opinion? A man had two sons. He came to the first and said, “Son go out and work in the vineyard today.” He said in reply, “I will not,” but afterwards changed his mind and went. The man came to the other son and gave the same order. He said in reply, “Yes, sir,” but did not go. Which of the two did his father’s will? I say to you, tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you. When John (the Baptist) came to you in the way of righteousness, you did not believe him; but tax collectors and prostitutes did. Yet even when you saw that, you did not later change your minds and believe him.’ ” Through a pointed illustration and fairly harsh comments spoken in love, Jesus offered his listeners the opportunity to take corrective action regarding their personal behavior—behavior that had resulted in their rejection of him and the basic tenets of his ministry. Well, it is often difficult to draw contemporary comparisons. And, at times, it is equally unwise to try. A choice to follow Jesus, however common or sensible it may seem for many in our culture, was a completely life-altering decision for first century followers, extreme in the most literal sense. But, for those willing to reverse field and assume a complete life change, it was the most prayerfully prudent decision they ever made. Maybe that’s why a candidate’s willingness to “flip-flop” on important issues can be troublesome to assess. It isn’t always so easy to determine if the most recent position is the correct one or not. Popularity is no guarantor of rightness. Still, anyone willing to assume a position that reflects godly principles and honors Christ always makes the right decision—whether an original position, or merely the most recent one. Send Stewardship Today to a Friend “Of God, we cannot say all that ought to be said. In those matters that concern God, to confess our ignorance is already great knowledge.”
~ St. Cyril of Jerusalem ~ |
 Prayers of the Saints: ST. ROBERT BELLARMINE (1542— 1621) Notably well-educated, Robert Bellarmine was born to a prominent family—an uncle even reigned very briefly as Pope Marcellus II. He joined the Jesuits in his late teens and taught the classics prior to his ordination. An influential writer, he completed a Hebrew grammar, a revision of St. Jerome’s Latin Vulgate, an extensive Catechism and various theological studies that brought him wide acclaim. Pope Clement VIII called him to Rome to serve as papal theologian, and he later served as both an archbishop and prefect of the Vatican Library. Many historians know him as the Vatican’s representative in controversies surrounding Copernicus and Galileo, the saint’s personal friend. A gifted theologian, teacher, spiritual director, and Doctor of the Church, his knowledge of the Scriptures is evident in his written prayers and devotional works. The following brief passage is taken from On the Ascent of the Mind to God: “O Lord, is it not true that you promise those who keep your commandments a reward more desirable than great wealth and sweeter than honey? You promise a most abundant reward, for as your apostle James says: ‘The Lord has prepared a crown of life for those who love him.’ What is this crown of life? It is surely a greater good than we can conceive of or desire, as St. Paul says, quoting Isaiah: ‘Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has it so much as dawned on man what God has prepared for those who love him.’ ” “Wisdom consists not so much in knowing what to do in the ultimate as in knowing what to do next.”
~ Herbert Hoover ~ |
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IN THIS ISSUE: TOP STORY: » The Voices of the Work PRAYER: » A Willingness to Change One’s Mind MINISTRY: » Stay Awhile. Stick Around. Serve. FINANCE: » Our Father’s Own MONTHLY SPOTLIGHT: » Ministry Spotlight in the Baton Rouge Diocese The Stewardship Office’s Annual Curriculum BACK TO TOP ^ |
STAY AWHILE. STICK AROUND. SERVE. A thoughtful guest never assumes a host wants to extend a visit, but doubt is quickly erased by a sincere invitation to stay. “Don’t leave now. Stick around. Stay awhile.” Even if other commitments mean it’s time to go, the opportunity for additional, shared fellowship is always welcome. With a knowing grin, those who travel or relocate often find the need to confirm the presence of both genuineness and generosity. More than one displaced Southerner has casually remarked—just like back home—“Ya’ll come on and go home with us,” only to have others willingly accept the invitation. Clearly, hospitality should never be taken lightly. And, for those gifted by the Spirit of God to be hospitable and merciful and encouraging to others, the chance to stay and minister to someone else helps shape lives of service. While imprisoned, the Apostle Paul wrote a letter to a New Testament church full of people whom he loved a great deal, the people and the church at Philippi. “My eager expectation and hope is that I shall not be put to shame in any way, but that with all boldness, now as always, Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me life is Christ, and death is gain. If I go on living in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. And I do not know which I shall choose. I am caught between the two. I long to depart this life and be with Christ, for that is far better. Yet that I remain is more necessary for your benefit. And this I know with confidence, that I shall remain and continue in the service of all of you for your progress and joy in the faith.” In the words of many popular songs, “Do I stay, or do I go?” St. Paul wondered. To leave those with whom he ministered likely meant identification with Christ in death and martyrdom. To stay meant identification with Christ in devotion and ministry. What is clearly so significant about the apostle’s perspective is the total absence of selfish interest. Even as the Philippians may have echoed the sentiment of the genial host, “Please stay awhile longer. Don’t leave now,” St. Paul’s great concern was that he might honor God through whatever his Heavenly Father purposed to do. Though ready for eternity, St. Paul desired to remain until God called him home, a martyr’s death. For him, that was gain. How many of us have reduced life to such a profound measure? How many choose to focus so purposefully on eternal things that temporal situations are shaped by them? In truth, we are all here for God’s purposes. Why not accept his invitation to stay awhile, that we might do the good work of ministry on behalf of a good and gracious God. Send Stewardship Today to a Friend “When did God’s love for you begin? When He began to be God. When did He begin to be God? Never, for He has always been without beginning and without end, and so He has always loved you from eternity.”
~ St. Francis de Sales ~ |
 An Attitude Adjustment Each person is a mixture of character traits, likes and dislikes, talents and dreams, and the product of a series of life experiences, both good and bad. Much of this has been formed, in part, by the places we’ve called home. When we tell our stories about those communities, we reveal a good bit about who we are. And where we’ve been has a lot to do with where we find ourselves today. What then, do St. Paul’s comments, as found in Philippians chapter two, reveal about the Lord Jesus? “Have among yourselves the same attitude that is also yours in Christ Jesus. Who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; and found in human appearance, he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross.” Fully divine, the Son of the Most High took on our form, that he might reach us, that he might teach us, that he might redeem us by dying a horrible death in our place. From where had he come? Where had he been prior to the three-plus decades he shared with those he called family and friends? He had been in heaven, of course. Yet—for a season—he left his place there, that—through him—we might know citizenship there ourselves. He is our Lord. He is also our example. And his willingness to set aside the glories of heaven informs our definition of sacrifice and an attitude of willing ministry and humble service. |
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IN THIS ISSUE: TOP STORY: » The Voices of the Work PRAYER: » A Willingness to Change One’s Mind MINISTRY: » Stay Awhile. Stick Around. Serve. FINANCE: » Our Father’s Own MONTHLY SPOTLIGHT: » Ministry Spotlight in the Baton Rouge Diocese The Stewardship Office’s Annual Curriculum BACK TO TOP ^ |
OUR FATHER'S OWN In 1976, the year of the great American Bicentennial celebration, many of the automobiles that carried dignitaries through a thousand community parades were the nation’s best-selling cars at the time, the several versions of the Oldsmobile Cutlass. Just three decades ago, only two brands—Chevrolet and Ford—sold more cars than Oldsmobile. The members of the proud GM division traced their roots to the progressive Olds family and the turn of the previous century, and they designed cars blessed by a legacy of innovation and futuristic thinking with names to match—the Rocket 88, the Jetstar, and the Starfire among them. Shortly after celebrating its own centennial, the brand was shelved. Oldsmobiles are no longer manufactured by General Motors. One of the division’s last marketing campaigns was one of its most inventive. The familiar slogan “This is not your father’s Oldsmobile” communicated a connection to the past with an emphasis on the future. An appeal to someone’s respect for dear old Dad was matched by an understanding of the wants and needs of the contemporary car buyer. The Oldsmobile division experienced less than anticipated sales, but that was no reflection on the ability of the ad to capture the imagination. The cars depicted were a bit like, and yet equally unlike, the vehicles of a previous generation. Similar. The models represented two sets of similar vehicles, but each was marked by the characteristics of a particular place and time. And, though once considered a brand with timeless cachet, even the Oldsmobile proved to be a brand with a limited and defined shelf life. Much of what we think when we talk of spiritual things suggests timelessness. We use words like eternal, everlasting, forever, endless, imperishable, unending and infinite. We do that for one reason. The language of God reflects his eternal nature. Investments crumble and disappoint, and the best man-made designs capture just a moment of wonder in life’s plate glass display. God is quite unlike that. The Old Testament prophet Isaiah quotes the Creator of all things, using these insightful words: “My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways. As high as the heavens are above the earth, so high are my ways above your ways and my thoughts above your thoughts.” We give, but generosity is defined by God’s gift of his Son. We love, but devotion is defined by God’s unconditional sacrifice. We show mercy and forgiveness, but God—through his goodness and grace—defines those terms as well. Fortunately, unlike cars rusting in a thousand junkyards, we are our Father’s, and when we give, love, show mercy and show forgiveness, we point others to him and his higher ways and thoughts. In that, we show his grace. Send Stewardship Today to a Friend “Avoiding danger is no safer in the long run than outright exposure. The fearful are caught as often as the bold.”
~ Helen Keller ~ |
 We’re Surrounded The audiophile is fond of his stereo surround sound. The collector of fine art is partial to his or her collection of paintings and sculpture—the treasured visual hanging on every wall and adorning each available shelf. The professor’s office is testimony to her love for books, a desk and chairs surrounded by thousands of valued authors and themes. We love to surround ourselves with whatever stuff we love—the sights, the sounds, the smells, the feel of the things we value and treasure most. Our preferences may be reflected in the furniture and cabinetry that actually house few objects, or our fondness for things may completely dominate the pieces on which they rest. In Psalm 103, David spoke of a different type of ‘surrounding’ altogether. ”Bless the Lord, my soul; do not forget all the gifts of God, who pardons all your sins, heals all your ills, delivers your life from the pit, surrounds you with love and compassion.” Though many people enjoy the thought of being surrounded by friends and family, few might consider the value of spreading their love and generous care for others in such a way that their regard for them surrounds them. It is a very different idea, but it is reflective of God who surrounds us with his love. It is the blessing of his presence, not simply of his provision. “Surrender to the will of God, and embrace His love and His compassion,” one has written. He has us surrounded. “If all the cars in the United States were placed end to end, it would probably be Labor Day weekend.”
~ Doug Larson ~ |
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IN THIS ISSUE: TOP STORY: » The Voices of the Work PRAYER: » A Willingness to Change One’s Mind MINISTRY: » Stay Awhile. Stick Around. Serve. FINANCE: » Our Father’s Own MONTHLY SPOTLIGHT: » Ministry Spotlight in the Baton Rouge Diocese The Stewardship Office’s Annual Curriculum BACK TO TOP ^ |
MONTHLY SPOTLIGHT: THE STEWARDSHIP OFFICE'S ANNUAL CURRICULUM The monthly newsletter Stewardship Today is an important component of a valued and award-winning ministry of the Stewardship Office of the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge—the creation of instructive stewardship curriculum of great value to the development efforts of an entire diocese, a local parish congregation, or an individual parishioner. Each year the office produces a comprehensive curriculum packet, complete with an instructional sixty- to seventy-page binder, reproducible brochures, program cards, posters, an informational CD and more. Stewardship: A Way of Life has served the stewardship needs of hundreds of Catholic dioceses and parishes all over the country for years. The newest edition is entitled “A Legacy of Faith” and traces the contributions of the saints and other faithful from the Apostolic Era to the present. The cover article of this month’s issue of Stewardship Today is adapted from a particular study piece within the material. For additional information regarding either Stewardship Today or the office’s annual curriculum Stewardship: A Way of Life, please contact the staff through the following e-mail address: info@stewardshiptoday.org BACK TO TOP ^ |
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