At its heart, stewardship is about investing in what we value. While financial resources are an important aspect, in its fullest sense, stewardship extends beyond financial resources – it is about how we nurture and sustain the resources that build strong, thriving communities.
The Decline of Community Participation
One of the most valuable resources we have is the power of human connection. Yet today, participation in community organizations – not only churches and other faith communities but also civic groups, PTAs, and more – has significantly declined. Over the past 50 years, participation in community groups has dropped by nearly 50%. This shift has profound implications for our collective well-being.
The Health Risks of Disconnection
The consequences of disconnection go beyond social concerns; they pose serious health risks:
- Loneliness and social isolation increase the risk for premature death by 26 percent and 29 percent, respectively.
- Lacking social connection can increase the risk for premature death as much as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day.
- Loneliness is linked to a greater risk of heart disease, stroke, anxiety, depression, and dementia.
In 2023, the Surgeon General declared loneliness and isolation a national epidemic, warning that disconnection now affects more Americans than diabetes or obesity.
A Call to Action for People of Faith
For people of faith, this is a call to action. Our Episcopal tradition has long emphasized the importance of community, hospitality, and shared ministry. From gathering for worship to sharing fellowship over coffee hour, to small groups and hands-on outreach, we understand that church is not just a place we go – it is something we build together.
Exploring the Power of Community: Join or Die
Social scientist Robert Putnam, author of Bowling Alone, (here’s a link to a recent New York Times interview) has spent decades studying the decline of community participation. The documentary Join or Die explores what’s happening – and what we can do about it. The film highlights the existential importance of participation in community groups, the dangers of social isolation, and the ways that small groups can help revitalize civic engagement. It features a range of voices, including the perspective of Pete Buttigieg, an Episcopalian who has spoken about the role of faith in public life (though not specifically from a denominational perspective in this film).
The Health Benefits of Participation
Research has shown that active participation in community organizations is linked to better physical and mental health. People who engage in regular social interactions through churches, volunteer groups, and civic organizations report lower levels of stress, a greater sense of purpose, and even longer lifespans. The message of Join or Die reinforces that belonging to a group isn’t just good for democracy – it’s good for our personal well-being, too.
Stewardship as Presence and Engagement
If stewardship is about sustaining what we cherish, then being part of a church community is an act of stewardship in itself. Just as financial giving ensures the future of the church, participation ensures its vitality. Join or Die reminds us that showing up, being present, and engaging with others are powerful, life-giving acts.
Host a Screening or Join One
Interested in the topic? Click here for the trailer, Join or Die is a fun and compelling examination of the power of connection. Available on Netflix – why not watch it some evening? Better yet, watch it in community! Watching Join or Die together and having a discussion afterward would be a great way to foster community.
One diocesan congregation, Christ Church in Short Hills, is planning to do just that – they’re hosting a screening and group discussion on Wednesday, March 20, at 6:30 PM, and all are welcome to attend!
The message of Join or Die is clear: belonging matters, and participation is essential to the health of our churches, our neighborhoods, and our democracy. Stewardship in this sense is not only about financial giving but also about giving of our time, presence, and commitment to ministries that foster connection and care.
