“Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” 2 Corinthians 9:6 

“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:10

Here are some fun facts about the Joy of Generosity: 

1. Being a generous giver is contagious.   The moment you realize how abundantly generous God is, and how much God gives you every moment of every day,  you can’t help but want to say “thank you” by giving back.   
2. Generosity is a noun that describes the quality of being kind and generous.  But generosity only exists with action.   Acting with kindness, giving with abundance, sharing your time and talent. 
3.   Generosity is a great stress reliever.  Generosity can help you stay healthy.    Many scientific studies have found that generosity, offering both time and gifts of treasure, benefits everyone of every age physically and psychologically.
4. Long-term happiness is higher if you are a giver.
5. The way you give is important.  Giving thought to the gift, how you give, doing it deliberately and thoughtfully increases our feelings of Joy.
6. An online national survey of 4,500 American adults (the 2010 United Healthcare/Volunteer Match Do Good Live Well Study) found that people who volunteer have less trouble sleeping, less anxiety, less helplessness and hopelessness, better friendships and social networks, and a sense of control over chronic conditions.

Generosity is the fullest expression of the life of a steward, one who has been given a gift, a gift that must be used wisely and for a purpose, bringing glory to God.

In the spirit of St. Francis and St. Clare, you are invited to joyously participate in the blessings of our Mission San Luis Rey Parish Faith Community, to gratefully give back to God a measure of your God-given gifts of time, talent and treasure.