|
Good morning. My name is Damian Defex, and I am truly honored to talk briefly about the importance of stewardship at the Church of the Incarnation. First, I would like to thank our church community, Rev. Adrian, Rev. Nate, Rev. Denise and Uche – all for creating an incredible church family that we can lean and rely on.
It seems to me like life is becoming more and more difficult to manage every day. As my two children grow, the problems and ups and downs become a little bit more intense. It seems that city life as well has become tricky and hard to manage. It would also be an understatement to acknowledge the world has become a very dangerous place with war in Europe and the Middle East and other hot spots around the globe.
Like any parent, you want to be the best for your kids and try to give them what you can to comfort them. Like any New Yorker, I believe – especially in times of crisis – there's such a strong desire to help our fellow New Yorkers, whether it's people that are new to the city coming from all four corners of the planet or people that are struggling with homelessness, addiction or mental illness. I also feel a strong desire to help and somehow assist those suffering and experiencing extreme misery because of war globally.
With so many different areas of life pulling and grabbing our attention, it's important to find balance and recenter ourselves, and to come back to what's most important – to come back home and contribute to our church community. Not to neglect the needs of others but to focus on our church family and to ensure our church can thrive and that it has the resources to continue it's mission supporting those in need.
I think Rev. Adrian is such an incredible person and leader. It's important to support her in her mission of spreading the Word of God and fostering such an incredible church environment.
Stewardship is of course a commitment and a joyful response to a wonderful community that we are all a part of. As we contribute, we ensure that this living breathing building will continue to provide a place of comfort and peace for those of us in need.
As we contribute, we become active compared to passive – not self-serving but dedicated to the service of others. Together our efforts will be a source of strength and growth. Please give generously and often.
I'm reminded daily by the Incarnation church bells at 6:00 p.m. They are a reminder of my relationship with God and the church. Subconsciously they are a reminder that I'm home; I'm exactly where I need to be. And I'm reminded of my commitment. So thank you for listening. Thank you for your commitments. God bless you. And God bless the Church of the Incarnation.
| 
