Newsletter #13
Welcome to Stewardship Newsletter #13! As I write this, the rain is pouring down, but only a few days ago it was hot and summery. That’s April! It’s still the Easter Season, I have had my first COVID 19 vaccine, as have many of you, and hope is on its way! Just before Easter, we sent out a survey. Thanks to all who responded! Here are the results:
1) In which fundraisers have you participated? 81% said “Strawberry Tea” and 85% “Holly Tea”. 58% participated in Meridian Gift cards, 46% Neufeld Farms frozen foods, 27% the “Basket Case” fundraiser and 31% Daniel Chocolates.
2) Which of these would you like to see again? This was perhaps the most interesting question! A resounding 85% want the two Teas back (when allowed of course). 65% liked Meridian Gift cards and 46% Neufeld Farms. There was much less support for the other 2 events, though one person did suggest trying a Purdy’s Chocolate fundraiser.
3) Would you be interested in a Spring Plants fundraiser? Fortunately, 67% said “yes”, as we went ahead with that just over a week later!
4) How often should we hold fundraisers? 36% said “4 times a year” and 46% “As needed”. Only 11% said “Twice a year”
5) What level of participation would you like to offer? Unfortunately, as it was anonymous, I couldn’t tell who had offered help for what! However, the result was encouraging, with 76% offering help at the event, 60% offering “Where help is most needed” and 48% willing to do set up/ clean up. And yes, this adds up to more than 100% as people were ticking more than one answer. Good for St. John’s!
The results give us a better idea of what fundraisers to focus on and how often. Based on the survey, we drew up a tentative schedule for the year, as follows;
April - Spring Plants (Growing Smiles Fundraising) Growing Smiles orders finish on April 29th and delivery day is Thursday May 13th. Depending on the time our delivery arrives, we may distribute that day or the next. We’ll be in touch with those who ordered when we know more.
June – Meridian Farm Market gift cards
September – Neufeld Farms
November – Holly Tea (if Covid restrictions lifted) or??
Have you ever considered joining the Stewardship Committee Team? It’s a dynamic group that gets a lot done! Here are some comments about the group from members: “It adds depth to relationships” “It gives a broader view of the meaning of ‘Stewardship’” “It gives a more rounded view of the parish” “It takes Theology and gives it legs!” “It’s enjoyable”
Question of the Month: What does “Stewardship” mean to you?
------------------
RECIPE CORNER: This simple recipe is from the PWRDF Cookbook “Sharing Food” by Zaida Bastos.
FRIED PLANTAINS 2 ripe plantains 5 tablespoons olive or canola oil
Method: Peel and diagonally slice the plantains into ½ inch slices. Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat and add the oil. Once the skillet is hot, add the plantains and allow to cook for 3 to 4 minutes. Season with sea salt, if desired, and serve.
NOTE: Plantains are unsuitable for raw consumption. They are a starchy variety of the banana family and low in sugar by comparison. They are delicious fried or baked, hot or cold and make an excellent side dish or snack. They contain vitamin C, vitamin A and vitamin B-6, magnesium, potassium and fibre.
------------------
PRAYER O God of grace, continue to bless all those who seek a closer relationship with you. Fill our hearts and minds with the presence of your Holy Spirit. Inspire us to be changed by the Easter Gospel, changed to reflect your new light shining in this world. May we know that our worship of you, outside, online, and in our own prayers, draws us closer to the knowledge of your love showered upon our lives and our souls. We continue to pray for all those severely affected by this pandemic, may they know your peace. In the name of Jesus Christ, the crucified and risen one, we pray. Amen. Bishop John Stephens