St. Anna Greek Orthodox Church, by charter, funds its operations through stewardship. It is the apostolic church and provides parishioners an authentic Christian experience based on traditional Christian practices. Practicing stewardship develops the spirituality of parishioners, unites the Church community, and provides a resilient funding base for the Parish.
The stewardship tradition originates from the Parable of Talents through which Jesus directly commands followers to cultivate the gifts they have received from God (time, talent, and treasure) and to use these gifts to do God’s work.
Paul tells us that Christians are co-workers of the Holy Spirit. They are to be church (religious community) builders. He advises the Ephesians to set aside some money on the first day of every week in order to contribute to the church at the end of the week.
For us, stewardship is not just a financial transaction. It is a commitment to a way of life that acknowledges accountability, reverence, and responsibility before God. It is the practice of offering one’s time, talents, and treasures to God in humble and contrite devotion.
Anyone who wants to support or join St. Anna Greek Orthodox Church is encouraged to become a St. Anna Steward.
Becoming a St. Anna Steward is easy. Just proceed to the Become a Steward page and fill out our online form or complete a physical Commitment Card, available in the Narthex of the church, mail to our address (details below), leave it at the Church Narthex, or give to a Parish Council member. Donors will receive quarterly statements documenting their commitments and contributions.
Friends are businesses, or members of the broader Utah community, that wish to support St. Anna's mission or to contribute to specific fundraising campaigns, programs, or beneficial giving efforts. Friends are encouraged to register with St. Anna when making stewardship or other donations.
Inquirers are individuals that wish to explore Orthodox Christianity at St. Anna Greek Orthodox Church. St. Anna welcomes Inquirers from all backgrounds to learn about Orthodoxy and consider joining our Parish. While St. Anna is a Greek Orthodox Parish, you don't need to be Greek to become a Parishioner. All services are officiated in English.
Inquirers often attend services as well as Bible Study and Fr. Anthony's Inquirers class to learn about the religion. Inquirers are encouraged to register with St. Anna Greek Orthodox Church and to make an annual stewardship commitment.
Parishioners are Orthodox Christians (baptized and/or Chrismated into the Church) who periodically or regularly attend St. Anna services, receive sacraments at St. Anna, and follow Orthodox Church traditions and practices.
Parishioners in Good Standing are parishioners who make an annual stewardship commitment (time, talent, and treasure). Parishioners in Good Standing are entitled to vote in general assemblies, (must be current in payments through the end of the quarter prior to the specific assembly) lead Ministries and become Godparents.
Parishioners of any Greek Orthodox Church can be Stewards of more than one Parish.
Stewardship Commitments are for 'time, talent, and treasure.' Financial commitments are used to pay operating costs. Time and talent commitments are needed to fulfill church operations and programs. Each parishioner has a unique ability to contribute and all contributions are appreciated.
There is no minimum pledge at St. Anna. In 2024, the mean (average) pledge was $2,400.00.
A commitment is an intent to contribute. It is not a contract. You may adjust your commitment at any time by contacting Peter Yannias (Assistant Treasurer) at peteryannias@yahoo.com.
St Anna Greek Orthodox Church is recognized as an affiliate of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and the Metropolis of Denver, both of which are qualified 501(c)(3) entities. Gifts to St. Anna can be deducted from state and federal taxes as itemized deductions.
Parish members should consult their accountant or tax preparer on how to account for church giving on tax returns. Peter Yannias can provide documentation of 501(c)(3) recognition if needed.
Some Stewards may be able to use planned giving (Donor's Trust, Qualified Charitable Donations, direct transfer of appreciated assets) to minimize taxes. Others may be able to use corporate matching funds to amplify their giving. Stewardship Ministry can provide referrals to qualified accountants, financial advisors, and lawyers regarding planned giving.