Parish Administrator’s Notes

Phil Grant, Pastoral Administrator and Safe Environment Coordinator

April 26, 2026

Stewardship & Hospitality

What comes to mind when you hear the word, “stewardship”? 

I ask because I recently attended a good Archdiocesan conference on “Stewardship as a Way of Life.” There were four strong speakers, all with excellent content. 

One of the points made by all speakers was the importance of hospitality. In many respects, it’s something we do well in our St. Matt’s community. I also think we can improve—with additional help. 

Yes, this is another plea for additional greeters before each Mass. It’s an opportunity to smile and say, “Hello! Good morning!” to people coming in the door. Our greeters hand out hymnals, worship aids, and bulletins. They also invite people to fill out a nametag. They know where the restrooms are. 

(I recognize that some people might be on the shy side. Being a greeter is not appealing to everyone. If that’s the case, I ask you to consider how you might step up in other aspects of stewardship, such as prayer, formation and service. How else can you show you’re a disciple of Jesus?) 

Another way we can improve hospitality is by having more opportunities to socialize after Mass. Coffee and donuts at the back of church, perhaps? (Not everyone is inclined to go down to the Social Hall.) How about lemonade during the summer months? 

If interested in any of these ideas—or you have some of your own—please let me know. See me at the door, before and/or after Mass. Emails also welcome. 

I look forward to sharing additional conference insights in future bulletins, particularly on prayer, formation and service. 

Alleluia! Christ is Risen! Thank you for your support!

Phil Grant, Administrator
Safe Environment Coordinator
pgrant@st-matts.org
651-224-9793