TLDR: Cathy and Mitch LeJeune have served as coordinators of the In His Steps program for many years. We have set in place a transition plan as they step down from this important ministry. Read on for more.
I have been in churches that unveil a brand-new pre-packaged stewardship program every year with names like Milestones, Created to be a Steward, Journey to Generosity, Go and Do the Same, Devoted to Generosity, Faithful Hopeful Loving, etc. There is much rich theology in some of these programs, but to be honest, some of them are a bit gimmicky and overly dependent on marketing and secular business principles. For nearly two decades Saint Dunstan’s has used a stewardship program called “In His Steps,” which is not a set of glossy brochures and posters meant to inspire you to generosity. Rather, In His Steps is a set of activities deeply rooted in prayer. An organizing committee prays for a team of captains, the captains pray for the members of their teams, the team members pray for a small group of parishioners they contact via telephone or email, and the clergy pray for everyone involved.
A crucial step in the model is the conversation between the various parishioners and the members of the IHS team. These chats are truly about the member’s life and faith journey. We ask practical questions such as “How are you doing? Is there anything you want us to pray for? Do you have any pastoral care needs we can direct to our team or clergy? Etc.” No money is discussed, no pressure tactics are used, and no sensitive information is explored unless you feel comfortable disclosing information to the caller. Prior to these telephone calls, the Rector mails a letter to the entire congregation to inform you of current developments in the church and to set out priorities for the following year. Enclosed in that letter is a pledge card through which you will make a promissory commitment to the ministries of the church for 2026.
For several years now, Cathy and Mitch LeJeune have coordinated this ministry very successfully. Unfortunately, Cathy’s recovery requires additional time, and the couple can no longer coordinate this ministry. We have assigned a small committee within the leadership team to meet with Mitch and Cathy for training and to help us coordinate this ministry for 2026. At some point in early 2026, we will identify a couple from within our church to take on the reins of this valuable ministry. Because of this time of transition, I am asking all I.H.S. captains to serve this year. We need continuity in this ministry, and the captains provide this continuity. If you see a need to step down from the captain role, I ask you to find a couple within the church who can replace you (One of our captain couples has just done this and we are grateful to them for finding their own replacements.)
In early October (once we wrap up our Capital Campaign at the end of September) each family in our church will receive a letter from me, after you receive this letter, you will receive a call from the I.H.S. team. Please answer your phones, return messages or emails, and make your needs known to us. Our pastoral care and clergy teams are here to serve you and any needs you identify to your I.H.S. callers will be treated with great confidentiality. You can also call us at any time to discuss your pledge or to alert us of any needs you or a family member are having.
I am constantly amazed by the generosity of this parish. You are an incredible body of believers who give abundantly of your time and resources for the building of God’s kingdom at this amazing place. One recent example of this generosity is the Capital Campaign we will bring to a close at the end of next month. As of now, we have received over 70% of the money necessary for all our improvements and there are families from whom we are hearing now, after their return from summer breaks. A big “Thank You” to all who have faithfully and lovingly participated in this big effort. Please check our new playgrounds in the courtyard and our new choir room in the Bentley Education Center. Your financial gifts are making a difference every day, and we can’t wait to start construction on our new kitchen, our sanctuary, and new entrance at the traffic light.
Please feel free to express your gratitude to Mitch and Cathy for their incredible ministry over many years. They have big hearts and truly love this church. Continue to keep Cathy in your prayers for continued success in her recovery. Pray also for Mitch as he continues to provide excellent care for Cathy. I am humbled and deeply grateful to be your Rector. Please call me if you have any questions about this blog.
May our Lord continue to bless you,
Fr. Roman+
