Offertory Prayers and Invitation for January 2017

Each month’s Offertory Prayers includes an “Invitation to the Offering” (see below) along with a digital image for those who might want to use it. We hope you will find this a helpful way to remind the people in your pews that their offering travels to many places to make a powerful difference in the lives of people they may never meet. You can find great stories of the difference our giving makes at http://umcgiving.org

Invitation to the Offering

The offering you made last week empowered ministry within our congregation and in response to the needs of our community. It also helped support the work of ministries beyond the local church that reach people who are in desperate need to feel the touch of Christ’s love and reconciliation. Through our connectional giving, we have built a transforming gift for people on the continent of Africa: Africa University. The university will celebrate its twenty-fifth anniversary in March 2017. With more than 6,100 graduates from 32 countries across Africa, this amazing institution continues to grow and thrive, even in the midst of economic turmoil in Zimbabwe. It is a great testament to what United Methodists can do when we work together! This ministry happens thanks to the generous support of United Methodists like you. I invite you once again to give generously as we worship God through sharing our gifts, tithes, and offerings.

Learn more about the work of Africa University »

UMNS photo by Mike DuBose

January 1, 2017 – Epiphany Sunday/Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus/New Year’s Day

God, our provider, we marvel that you care for each individual personally. Thank you for giving Joseph dreams for guidance and a trusting heart to follow you. Help us to discern the nudges and leading of your Holy Spirit. May we take action swiftly in response to your call to compassion for people in need. Bless them in practical ways through our church’s ministries. We dedicate our tithes and offerings in the name of Jesus. Amen. (Matthew 2:13-23)

January 8, 2017 – First Sunday After the Epiphany/Baptism of the Lord

Loving God, you sent Jesus in power to reconcile all people to right relationship with you. We rejoice that he continues to bring peace and healing to people who are oppressed through sin, sickness, addiction, or other struggles. Fill us with your Spirit to speak as faithful witnesses of Christ’s resurrecting power. Use our gifts and offerings to fulfill your mission in our wider community. We ask this through Jesus, your Beloved Son. Amen. (Acts 10:34-43)

January 15, 2017 – Second Sunday After the Epiphany/Human Relations Day

Faithful God, you powerfully bring your saving help to all who cry in pain. You have drawn us into this church to be nurtured and to work together to offer encouragement and help to others. We are grateful that you enrich us with gifts of your Spirit and tangible resources to use for your will in the world. We devote ourselves anew to your service through Jesus Christ our Lord, through whom we pray. Amen. (1 Corinthians 1:1-9)

January 22, 2017 – Third Sunday After the Epiphany/Ecumenical Sunday

God of salvation, it is a privilege to worship you! You are the fount of goodness, truth, and beauty. You love all you have made. In this Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, we ask you to empower our brothers and sisters in Christ to share your good news in meaningful ways. Give all people of faith the joy of the psalmist, that we may bring our offerings to you with hearty songs of praise. We pray through Jesus Christ, our risen Lord. Amen. (Psalm 27)

January 29, 2017 – Fourth Sunday After the Epiphany

Eternal God, we praise you for your priceless gift of Scripture! You shine light on the path of life, so that we may align ourselves with your saving purposes. Strengthen us by the power of your Holy Spirit and bless our partnerships with interfaith congregations. Help us to reach out to show your kindness to our neighbors. Give us courage to become more generous in every realm of our lives. We pray this in your holy name. Amen. (Micah 6:1-8)