The Anglican Church of Canada Logo

Stewardship: A Faithful Response to God’s Mission

Stewardship: A Faithful Response to God’s Mission is a theological rationale approved by the Standing Committee on Philanthropy in 2011. It guides the Anglican Church of Canada’s approach to stewardship, framing it as a faithful response to God’s mission rather than simply supporting church programs. Grounded in scripture, the Baptismal Covenant and the Marks of Mission, the document encourages individuals and communities to live generously, care for creation and align their daily lives with God’s transformative purposes.

Suggested uses

  • Study resource for parish stewardship committees or diocesan working groups
  • Foundational text for stewardship education, formation or retreats
  • Reference for clergy and lay leaders preparing stewardship messages or initiatives
  • Discussion guide for adult Christian education or small group study

Key themes

  • Stewardship as a central expression of discipleship
  • Baptismal Covenant and Marks of Mission as guiding frameworks
  • Faithful use of God’s gifts for transformation and renewal
  • Participation in God’s ongoing mission to make all things new

Best suited for: clergy and lay leaders responsible for stewardship and discipleship programs, stewardship committees and congregational members seeking a deeper understanding of the biblical and theological foundations of Christian stewardship.

First page of "Stewardship: A Faithful Response to God’s Mission"

Acknowledging the land and God’s creation

This acknowledgement is crafted in light of the Principles of Reconciliation by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, as we seek to live faithfully in Christ and in right relationship with all. 

We give thanks to the Creator for this land, its waters, forests and all living beings, and for the abiding presence of Christ among us. From coast to coast to coast, these have been cared for and nurtured by First Nations, Inuit and Métis through countless generations. 

We honour the enduring relationship Indigenous Peoples have cultivated with these lands and waters, and the treaties and agreements that reflect these sacred bonds. We acknowledge the harms caused by colonial expansion, through frameworks like the Doctrine of Discovery and structures like the residential school system. We recognize our past failures as a Church, including disruption of connections to the land and suppression of Indigenous spiritualities. 

Guided by the gospel of Jesus Christ, we confess our need for healing. We commit ourselves to seeking truth, pursuing reconciliation and nurturing harmony with all creation. We place our trust in Christ, through whom all things are reconciled to God. 

May God strengthen us to live faithfully as stewards of the Earth. Let us walk in love, justice and reconciliation, joining in God’s work to restore all creation.