Offertory Prayers and Invitation for January 2018

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 God’s love and reconciliation. Through our connectional giving, we make possible the work of our Council of Bishops’ Office of Christian Unity and Interreligious Relationships, whose work involves keeping United Methodists in dialogue with people of other Christian churches as well as with people of other faith traditions. In promoting dialogue and exchange between people of all faiths, this work helps lead us to a world with more respect, tolerance, and understanding, as we long to live in peace and coexist with our neighbors. 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 the sharing of our gifts, tithes, and offerings.

Photo by Karl Anders Ellingsen, UMC Norway

Learn more about the Office of Christian Unity and Interreligious Relationships »

January 7, 2018 – Epiphany Sunday and Baptism of the Lord

Everlasting God, you love all people, especially those who are poor and vulnerable. You have demonstrated your great compassion in Scripture and history. Thank you for calling us to actively show compassion and uphold justice as members of the church of Jesus Christ. We are grateful for opportunities to extend your love through the ministries of our congregation. Use our gifts and offerings to help our neighbors who are in need of tangible goods and your Spirit’s peace. We pray through Christ our Lord. Amen. (Psalm 72)

January 14, 2018 – Second Sunday after the Epiphany (Human Relations Day– Special Offering)

God of wisdom, we are amazed that you know everything and understand everyone. Long ago, you established your plans to redeem the world from our sin. Your prophets prepared the way for Jesus, who lived as a teacher and healer, embodying your righteousness and grace. Help us to grow in maturity as disciples who follow Christ with trusting hearts. We dedicate these tithes and offerings for your work in our community of faith, through Jesus’ name. Amen. (John 1:43-51)

January 21, 2018 – Third Sunday after the Epiphany (Ecumenical Sunday)

Lord God, our hope, you are the trustworthy guide of all your people. We are glad to be in relationship with you. Let us remember that you are the source and goal of our lives. Help us to turn away from the empty promises of advertising and to live in the fullness of your gospel. Send your Holy Spirit to bring perspective on our daily actions as we work for your Kingdom. Accept our offerings and gifts for the mission of the church today. We ask this through Christ, our risen Lord. Amen. (1 Corinthians 7:29-31)

January 28, 2018 – Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany

O God, whose Word endures forever, your voice causes astounding things to happen. We can only revere you when we experience your benevolent power. Thank you for raising up faithful messengers and sending your Son Jesus to draw us close to you. Give us the ability to listen and obey you. Direct our efforts to fulfill your will in our lives and as part of this congregation. May our offerings, gifts, and service bring joy to people here in our neighborhood and around the world. We pray through the Word incarnate, Christ, our Lord. Amen. (Deuteronomy 18:15-20)