Kristina Arce

With more women in leadership in their workplaces and communities, Kristina Arce believes they need to reflect that leadership in their actions, especially in terms of their charitable giving.

In regard to her own career as a financial controller and the advancement opportunities she has received, the member of Santa Rosa de Lima Parish in Andice gives credit where credit is due. “I’ve held to the belief that it’s not me, it’s coming from the Lord,” she said. “I need to give back all of the blessings that have been bestowed upon me.”

Through her will, Kristina has ensured this giving will not end with her lifetime. When she wrote her will, she included her parish, the Diocese of Austin’s Catholic Services Appeal (CSA) and other charities and organizations she feels compelled to support now.

She also wants her son to see the importance of giving back, “to have that charitable mindset.”

Kristina began tithing at age 16 as a waitress and soon realized that what she gave almost always came back to her in some way — at first, with more tips then, later in life, with raises and promotions. She uses these “rewards” to increase her giving to others.

It was during Bible study years ago that she learned the true reward of stewarding God’s blessings in her life. “Doing good deeds doesn’t necessarily make you a Christian,” she said, “but being a Christian drives you to do good deeds.”