On Sunday, September 19, St. Joseph Parish in Downingtown, was the recipient of the Archbishop Thomas J. Murphy Memorial Parish Stewardship Award, presented by the National Catholic Stewardship Council at their National Conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Stewardship is generously giving of one's time, talent, and treasure. As Christian stewards, we should receive God's gifts gratefully, cultivate them responsibly, share them in justice with others, and return them with increase to God. The Stewardship Award recognizes a parish which has embraced every aspect of stewardship, demonstrating spiritual growth, community outreach and a long term commitment to a steward's way of life.

St. Joseph Parish, which is nearly 150 years old, has a long-standing tradition of such dedication. Monsignor Robert T. McManus, pastor, explained, "Our success is the result of the energetic spirit and genuine faith of our parishioners who have so willingly accepted the challenge of stewardship."

With more than fifty parish ministries available, parishioners have ample opportunities to share their gifts of time, talent and treasure for the benefit of their community. "Through Stewardship, many people have accepted the invitation to be active participants in our parish as we join together to support the mission of the Church," says Mary Waring who co-chairs the Stewardship Committee with her husband Craig. "This honor rewards our hard work and encourages us to continue to grow spiritually."

For more information on St. Joseph Parish, visit their parish web site at www.stjoesdtown.org or call 610-269-8294.