Stewardship: A Reflection  

Penny Mandziara 

Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.  

-1 Thessalonians 5: 16-17

This bible verse has served for many years as my rule of life. For me, developing an attitude of giving thanks is being aware of how much I have been given. Being grateful shifts my focus from what I might not have in my life, to the abundance, that is already been given to me by God. I have kept a gratitude journal for many years and was delighted, when Oprah made that practice so popular. The very act of writing down, what I am thankful for each day, has helped me develop a state of mind in which I feel thankfulness in every action and thought.

While it is easy to give thanks when things are going great in our lives, the celebrations of a loving partner, engagements, weddings, births, good health, meaningful employment, it can sometimes be a challenge, when things aren't going so well. It is during these times, that I ask myself, "Where's the good in this? What is God teaching me in this? Can I find God's grace in this?" Those are the times that I can reflect and pray on what is happening, but I ALWAYS come up with three things for which I'm grateful. I'll be honest. Some days it might be, that I'm a child of God, thankful for my family, and just grateful to be alive. I have come to the revelation through God's grace, that when I open myself up to find things in my day for which to be thankful, many opportunities present themselves. This has caused me to slow down; to be in the moment; and not to worry (as much)!

As I reflect on the meaning of stewardship, I think, how can I say thank you to God for everything that I have been given? In truth, I know I can't, but what I can do is give back in as many ways possible; to my God, my family, my friends, my church, and my community. Each week, as I write out our pledge, I take a moment to reflect on the week's blessings. I, also, believe that I am called to give my time and talent, too. Time is that precious gift, that I never feel I have enough of! Yet, can I give of myself to help others? I can take a late night call from a friend, who just put her mom in a nursing facility. I can tutor a second grader to become a better reader. I can volunteer in my community to make it a better place to live. These situations help me experience the grace of God working through me.

I am a work in progress, and as I continue my journey, I will rejoice always, pray constantly, and give thanks continually! I am VERY grateful for the opportunity to be a new member of the family of St. Nicholas!

Peace,

Penny Mandziara

It's that time of year again - how quickly time passes!  Fannie May catalogs and order forms are now available.  This is a wonderful opportunity to raise funds for St. Nicholas and it's easy.  St. Nicholas receives Fannie May at 30% below store prices.  We pass a 10% savings on to our customers and St. Nicholas receives 20%.  In 2011, we made a profit of $450.  Let's keep up the good work.

Please distribute the catalogs and order forms to family, friends, and work mates.  The sale runs through November 11.  Orders are to be returned to St. Nicholas by November 11.  Orders will be delivered to your home the week of December 3.   If you have any questions, please call Pat Kalicki at 847-882-3364 or email pat@stnicholasepiscopal.org.  

John Walsh, uncle to our Cyndi DeBock who passed away:  May the Risen Christ welcome John to his heavenly reward and comfort all who mourn his passing. 

For our vicar, Manuel Borg, that his leg be healed and he quickly regains his mobility.

Bruce Ogilvie, father of Christy Ogilvie McCreary:  Bruce is to undergo medical testing at Mayo Clinic. 

Connie Anderson, a friend of Nancy Allan who is has been diagnosed with cancer: for her well being and recovery.   

Hal Stratton who is a bit under the weather: that he regains full and vibrant health.

Bishop James Allan, our Nancy Allan's relation: he has taken a turn for the worse and his health is in rapid decline; pray for his peace and comfort and strength and acceptance for his family. 

Shirley Martinez, a friend of our Scott Cummings: she is battling cancer; pray for her health and well being.   

Vivian, sister to our Thelma Malacek, who is battling ovarian cancer: for successful surgery and a full and complete recovery.  Also, Vivian's friend, Peggy, who has been diagnosed with inoperable pancreatic cancer: for strength and peace for Peggy and family. 

Linda Buzard, choral director of St. John the Divine in Urbana and a friend of Bob DeHaven, is battling breast cancer: pray for full recovery and sound health.

Marcia Kizior, sister of Bob DeHaven, who is in poor health.

Pamela Joy DeHaven, in thanksgiving for recovery and continued remission.   

Hope Smith, whose cancer has reappeared: for strength, peace and guidance.

For those in transition: those searching for work, those who are moving and those encountering changes in life.

Psalm 24
Revelation 21:1-6a
John 11:32-44