Fr. George's Letter on Stewardship

Dear Faithful in Christ,

In the Old Testament, we read how Nehemiah, seeing the crumbling walls of Jerusalem, called the people to “Rise up and build.” He didn’t build alone—he inspired the people by sharing his vision. And they responded with one heart: “Let us rise up and build.”

This story (Nehemiah 2:19) calls us today not only to build with bricks and mortar, but to renew our faith and strengthen our parish life. As Orthodox Christians, we are invited to respond to God’s gifts through faithful stewardship. Like Nehemiah and his people, we too are called to rise up and build—together—carrying forward God’s work in our com-munity and the world.

This past year, our parish has grown through new ministries: Young Adults, Men’s Minis-try, Bible Study, and Prison Ministry. Our Archangels Academy Pre-School has also had an increase in enrollment. In the coming year, we plan to launch new initiatives, including a Special Needs Ministry, expanded outreach, and an Athletic Ministry. These efforts re-flect our desire to bring Christ’s love to more people, and we ask for your support through your stewardship pledge.

Stewardship is not about “how much is needed,” but about spiritual growth—acknowledging that all we have is God’s gift. When we give, we express gratitude and love for Him, and we help build up His Church.

As you prayerfully complete your Commitment Card, remember that giving is most meaningful when it comes with your presence, prayers, and willingness to serve. Steward-ship is not a substitute for commitment—it is an expression of it, and a thanksgiving for the many blessings in your life.

Together, let us echo Nehemiah’s call: “Let us rise up and build.” He prayed, planned, acted, and inspired others—we too are called to rise up in our parish with intentional stewardship, offering our gifts and deepening our life of prayer for the building up of God’s Church. May God bless our efforts and strengthen us to build with both our hands and our hearts.

With love in Christ,

Rev. Fr. George Lamberis - Parish Priest

Mr. Bill Kilias - Parish Council President

Mr. Panagiotis Stamus - Stewardship Committee Chair