Thankful for Generous Stewards
Tithing and charitable giving to a parish is common among Catholics, but Bishop Gregory Parkes recognizes significant and dedicated diocesan contributors in a special way.
Tithing and charitable giving to a parish is common among Catholics, but Bishop Gregory Parkes recognizes significant and dedicated diocesan contributors in a special way.
Hundreds of members joined one of two Mater Dei Giving Society Prayer Services and receptions. The first took place on November 24, 2024, at the Cathedral of St. Jude the Apostle for those giving society members living in the southern area of our diocese, and the second event was held December 15, 2024, at St. Joan of Arc Parish in Spring Hill for all in our northern areas.
Bishop Parkes established the Mater Dei Giving Society in 2020 as a means to show appreciation for those who have charitably contributed to the Diocese and the mission, Courageously Living the Gospel. The more than 6,000 members of the Mater Dei Giving Society have contributed to our Diocese, Catholic Charities, WBVM Spirit FM 90.5, and/or the Catholic Foundation in four special ways.:
Mater Ecclesiae (Mother of the Church) Circle recognizes businesses and organizations that have given a significant gift in the past year.
Mater Spei (Mother of Hope) Circle recognizes those who have established a legacy gift for a parish, mission, or diocesan entity in their estate.
Mater Unitatis (Mother of Unity) Circle recognizes those who have given a significant gift this past year.
Mater Caritas (Mother of Charity) Circle recognizes those who have given 10 years in a row to one or more of the diocesan entities.
Through the annual prayer service events, the purpose is simple: express gratitude. “This gathering is about celebrating you and saying thank you to you – the members of the Mater Dei Giving Society. You are here today because of your very generous stewardship to our Diocese,” said Bishop Parkes during his homily at both services. “Thank you for your stewardship, for your generosity, for your faith, and for your trust in me and in the work and ministry of our diocese.”
More than 300 gathered with Bishop Parkes and ministry leaders at the two events. For those working in ministry, gratitude efforts are vital. “We know the work we do is only possible because of the commitment of all who charitably contribute,” said John Morris, Station Manager at Spirit FM 90.5. “We literally could not make our ministry and outreach happen without our supporters.”
For more information about the Mater Dei Giving Society, visit https://www.dosp.org/materdei/.
