Offertory Prayers and Invitation for March 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 love and reconciliation. Through our connectional giving, we train and resource the next generation of young people who will lead the church and the world. Events like the Young Clergy Leaders Forum are hosted by our General Board of Church and Society (GBCS) in January each year. From the GBCS offices next door to the Supreme Court and directly across the street from the Capitol Building, these young clergy experience first-hand the importance of advocacy for the poor, for justice and mercy, for protection of the environment, and for equal rights for all citizens. 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.

Learn more about the work of General Board of Church & Society »

UMNS Photo by GBCS

March 5, 2017 – First Sunday in Lent

Forgiving God, you bring us the joy of salvation! Your steadfast love surrounds those who trust you. We are grateful that you nurture us with your Word. By your Spirit, help our congregation draw closer to you, even as we reach out to share your good news with our neighbors. We dedicate our tithes and offerings in the name of your faithful Son, Jesus Christ. Amen. (Psalm 32)

March 12, 2017 – Second Sunday in Lent

(Girl Scout Sunday)
Holy God, you delight in creating life and beauty. Thank you for the abundant grace that you freely give. Let our church be a community that lives by this good news: even our faith in Jesus Christ is a gift we receive. Use these offerings to further our church’s mission, providing opportunities for people to grow in wisdom and to spread the harmony of your peace. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen. (Romans 4:1-17)

March 19, 2017 – Third Sunday in Lent

God, our provider, in Christ you give us a spring of pure water that overflows to eternal life. Your love and hope fill our hearts, so we want to worship you in spirit and truth. Open our eyes to see the places in this neighborhood where our church’s ministries could reach new people. Direct our gifts and offerings for your purposes, so that our community will become like a field ripe for harvest. We ask this through Christ our risen Lord. Amen. (John 4:5-42)

March 26, 2017 – Fourth Sunday in Lent

(UMCOR Sunday/One Great Hour of Sharing Offering)
Generous God, you tenderly care for each person you have created. You miraculously restore people to health, and shine light into the lives of those who are discouraged. Guide us so that we will not regard others according to outward appearances but seek to find your love in their hearts. We dedicate our offerings and ourselves to contribute to the work of your kingdom on earth until Christ returns in glory. Amen. (1 Samuel 16:1-13)