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A Sample Rector's or Vicar's Letter

(Letterhead)

(Date)

<Inside address
<Personalized
<For each recipient

Dear <personalize>,

If I really had my "druthers", I would visit each of the homes of the members of our church family before Commitment Sunday to have an opportunity to discuss stewardship in person.

I believe the time when we complete our pledge or commitment card presents each of us with an important opportunity in our ongoing journey as members of the body of Christ. Since I cannot visit every home in such a short period of time, this note will have to be the substitute.

You have already heard some things about the mission work of the congregation as we begin planning for a new year of mission and ministry. I want to add another dimension from my particular position as your Rector (Vicar).

I believe in God. I know God as Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier. In spite of my faults I am grateful to God for who I am and for what I have been given. My life and all that sustains it is a gift from God and a reflection of God's love.

There are, of course, difficult times and bad moments in all of our lives which are beyond anyone's control. But I believe God is always present, God's grace prevails, and light overcomes the darkness.

When I think about my own personal stewardship and all that God has entrusted to my care, the only word that seems to fit is "gratitude." The best kind of steward I know how to be is one who acts out of thanks to God. STEWARDSHIP then becomes an attitude.

Recently, (spouse's name) and I took a step of faith and moved from % to % of our household income in our giving to the Church. The Episcopal Church has witnessed to the tithe (10%) as the minimum standard of Christian giving. We are committed to working toward the tithe until we reach or exceed it. We encourage you to take a similar step of faith.

Please think about these things, and when the time comes for you to make your commitment, your pledge will reflect your faith. Thanks for sharing these moments with me and allowing me to share some thoughts with you that are so important to me.

Faithfully,

      Signature
Rector (Vicar)