"Thy Will be Done." A stewardship parish strives to nourish the soul through prayer. Prayer and the Sacraments dispose of a soul to receive God's abundant graces, which are necessary to grow in holiness. There is a deep connection between the Eucharistic celebration, thanksgiving and stewardship-- ways to thank God. "In Christian tradition, liturgy means the participation of the people of God in 'the work of God'. Through the liturgy, Christ our redeemer and high priest continues the work of our redemption in, with, and through His Church." (CCC p.1069)

"When I was a stranger, you welcomed me" (Mt. 25:35) Jesus teaches that whenever welcome one of the least among us, we welcome Christ Himself. Hospitality is a gift from God and an expression of joyful heart. God gives His love to each one of us. As God loves us, He calls us to love one another. When we share the gift of hospitality, we try to help all in our parish family believe that " We are pilgrims on a journey; we are travelers on the road; we are here to help each other walk the mile and bear the load." Sometimes this means a genuine smile as you greet your neighbor. Sometimes it may be inviting others to join a ministry you enjoy. As members of St. Teresa of Avila, we all need to work to help assure that, "All are welcome to this place."

" I have come, not to be served, but to serve." Just as the members of a family come together to help one of their own, a stewardship parish family serves those who are hurting or have needs, are doubting or seeking salvation. Parishioners seek the parish family as a primary community to serve and be served--to give and to receive. The members of a stewardship parish recgonized that they also have a need to give beyond their own members. They have a need to serve and to give in the diocese, the community and the universal church. Service by those of all ages, provides the opportunity to practice hospitality, prayer and formation.

We are a light to each other. Religious education is a lifelong process. Through faith formation, the church seeks to prepare its members, old and young, to live out the gospels. In these ministries we are helping each others grow in our faith and love for God. Faith formation informs, forms, and trasnforms the person into a robust and vital disciple of Jesus. This is a journey, and walking in a community, with friends and those who love us, make the journey a little easier.