By Catholic Stewardship Consultants
www.CatholicSteward.com
Many Catholic parents feel like they’ve failed — especially when their adult children no longer practice the faith or attend Mass regularly. Parents are often slow to take credit for their children’s successes but quick to shoulder the blame when it comes to struggles in the spiritual life.
Yet as disciples of Jesus Christ, we are called to live as stewards of all God’s gifts — especially the gift of our Catholic faith.
Stewardship is a response of gratitude to God, and one of the greatest ways we show that gratitude is by handing on the faith to those we love. Stewardship is always about invitation, witness and love — not pressure or guilt.
In 2005, then-Archbishop J. Michael Miller of Vancouver outlined the five essential marks of Catholic education — a message later published in “The Holy See’s Teaching on Catholic Schools.”
These qualities apply not only to Catholic schools, but also to Catholic families and individuals who seek to be faithful stewards of God’s grace.
Supernatural vision: A stewardship life begins with a supernatural vision — recognizing everything we have is a gift from God, and our ultimate goal is heaven. From an early age, we should focus our hearts on eternal life with God. Do we speak to our children and grandchildren about heaven? Do we remind ourselves that we are stewards of this earthly life, always journeying toward eternity?
Christian anthropology: Stewardship flows from understanding who we are — children of God, made in his image. Is Christ at the center of our daily lives? Are we showing through our words and actions that Jesus is the heart of our families? Stewardship begins with gratitude and flourishes when we live as joyful witnesses.
Communion and community: Stewardship reminds us we are not isolated individuals but part of a greater communion — the body of Christ. In our homes and parishes, we are called to build community, sharing life and supporting each other. Do we foster this in our families? Do we encourage generosity and self-giving?
Catholic worldview: A stewardship way of life shapes how we see the world. A Catholic worldview helps us see God in all things and encourages holiness in daily life. Are we helping each other recognize God’s call? Are we supporting and gently challenging one another to grow as disciples?
Gospel witness: At its heart, stewardship is about witness. We don’t need all the answers to share our faith. What matters most is showing how Jesus and his church have made a difference in our lives. Stewardship invites us to be living examples of God’s love and generosity.
Passing on the faith is not complicated, and it’s never too late. Let’s help our children, grandchildren and all our loved ones know what we’re about — discipleship, holiness and the journey to heaven.