Why should he love me so? God Knew
Do you ever suppose that He
Was thinking of the nails they’d form
To nail Him on a tree;
And when God made the trees so tall
Was he seeing far ahead
The cross to be made for lumber
Where His Son’s own blood was shed;
And when God made man’s muscle
And gave him brain and will
Did God believe these creature men
Would use that power to kill?
Oh, yes, God knew of all of this
And yet because of love
For sinful men He came to earth
And left His home above
He took on Him the form of man
And then men’s sins He took
And then redeemed by faith in Him
Our names within the Book.
--Unknown
The Gift that keeps on Giving.
To learn more about connectional giving click here.
God Is Still In Control!
Miss Lladale Carey
Web Producer
UMCGiving.org
United Methodist Communications
Monday, December 28, 2009
Monday, December 21, 2009
His Name Shall Be Called Wonderful
Wonderful savior! We worship before You,
Jehovah Almighty-Eternal “I Am!”
This we confess, while our hearts still adore you.
As, washed in Your blood, we cry, “Worthy the Lamb.”
Wonderful Jesus! The babe in the manger;
Though born of the virgin, Your nature all clean:
Thine was the Kingdom, yet counted a stranger,
Your welcome how cold, and Your lodging how mean!
Wonderful Person! The Son of the Father;
Known only to Him can this mystery be:
We may not fathom its meaning: but rather
Our faces we veil as we think upon Thee!
Wonderful too, in Your manifestation:
Revealing the Father, declaring His name
Who but Yourself to procure our salvation
God’s justice could meet, and His love could proclaim?
Wonderful price of Eternal Redemption;
Oh! Marvelous work with which none can compare!
The blood that has bought our exemption
From judgment, which else we forever must bear.
Wonderful object of Worship in heaven:
Unspeakable gift from the heart of our God!
Countless the blessings with You which are given
To sinners made nigh to Himself by Your blood.
Wonderful Savior! We love to adore Thee;
And blessed the hope that ere long You will come:
Then shall we see all Your beauty and glory,
And praise You up there in Your wonderful home!
--Author Unknown
Give the gift that lasts this holiday season. Give a gift of $10, 25, or $50 to the churchwide Specials Sundays and help someone in your congregation or beyond have an opportunity to go to college. Click here.
God is still in Control!!
Miss Lladale Carey
Web Producer
UMCGiving.org
United Methodist Communications
Wonderful savior! We worship before You,
Jehovah Almighty-Eternal “I Am!”
This we confess, while our hearts still adore you.
As, washed in Your blood, we cry, “Worthy the Lamb.”
Wonderful Jesus! The babe in the manger;
Though born of the virgin, Your nature all clean:
Thine was the Kingdom, yet counted a stranger,
Your welcome how cold, and Your lodging how mean!
Wonderful Person! The Son of the Father;
Known only to Him can this mystery be:
We may not fathom its meaning: but rather
Our faces we veil as we think upon Thee!
Wonderful too, in Your manifestation:
Revealing the Father, declaring His name
Who but Yourself to procure our salvation
God’s justice could meet, and His love could proclaim?
Wonderful price of Eternal Redemption;
Oh! Marvelous work with which none can compare!
The blood that has bought our exemption
From judgment, which else we forever must bear.
Wonderful object of Worship in heaven:
Unspeakable gift from the heart of our God!
Countless the blessings with You which are given
To sinners made nigh to Himself by Your blood.
Wonderful Savior! We love to adore Thee;
And blessed the hope that ere long You will come:
Then shall we see all Your beauty and glory,
And praise You up there in Your wonderful home!
--Author Unknown
Give the gift that lasts this holiday season. Give a gift of $10, 25, or $50 to the churchwide Specials Sundays and help someone in your congregation or beyond have an opportunity to go to college. Click here.
God is still in Control!!
Miss Lladale Carey
Web Producer
UMCGiving.org
United Methodist Communications
Monday, December 14, 2009
Experiencing Abundance and Scarcity
Why do church people often seem the poorest people in the world? That poverty has little to do with the financial resources available for ministry.
Congregations in prosperous communities often seem as impoverished as their less affluent neighbors. The poverty to which I refer comes from the tendency of church people to focus on what they do not have, rather than what they do have.
Knowing resources are limited, we easily find ourselves using the language of scarcity rather than abundance, and in doing so fail to recognize God’s miracles in our midst.
Jesus told his disciples, “Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, god-provisions. Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.” (Matthew 6:33, The Message)
When Jesus sent his disciples to preach, heal and cast out demons, he explicitly sent them with nothing but the coats on their backs. While they easily could have found themselves worrying about the lack of resources for ministry, they simply did what Jesus had told them to do. When they returned, they found great things had happened among them despite their poverty.
In September 2008, when the financial crisis began to show itself in our church, we engaged in the difficult conversations that come when times get hard. However, I also invited our congregation to answer the question, “What resources do we have to share the love of God with our community?” It was a call to recognize the assets and gifts among us, rather than engaging in the “If we only had…” game that often seems to guide our lives. As we identified what God gives us, we posted those gifts on the wall for all to see.
Our task is to recognize the abundance God’s gifts. Yes, we may have to simplify. Yes, we may not be able to afford all the programs we have offered in the past.
The good news, however, is God is in our midst, giving us all we need: the love and grace that transforms us into something new. That is what makes us the richest people in the world.
By giving 100 percent to the 7 apportion funds and 6 church-wide Special Sundays, you show God's abundance to those who do not have. To learn more about the connectional giving system of the denomination click here.
God is Still In Control!
Miss Lladale Carey
Web Producer
UMCGiving.org
United Methodist Communications
To submit your own success stories on our blog send us an email at connectionalgiving@umcom.org
Why do church people often seem the poorest people in the world? That poverty has little to do with the financial resources available for ministry.
Congregations in prosperous communities often seem as impoverished as their less affluent neighbors. The poverty to which I refer comes from the tendency of church people to focus on what they do not have, rather than what they do have.
Knowing resources are limited, we easily find ourselves using the language of scarcity rather than abundance, and in doing so fail to recognize God’s miracles in our midst.
Jesus told his disciples, “Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, god-provisions. Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.” (Matthew 6:33, The Message)
When Jesus sent his disciples to preach, heal and cast out demons, he explicitly sent them with nothing but the coats on their backs. While they easily could have found themselves worrying about the lack of resources for ministry, they simply did what Jesus had told them to do. When they returned, they found great things had happened among them despite their poverty.
In September 2008, when the financial crisis began to show itself in our church, we engaged in the difficult conversations that come when times get hard. However, I also invited our congregation to answer the question, “What resources do we have to share the love of God with our community?” It was a call to recognize the assets and gifts among us, rather than engaging in the “If we only had…” game that often seems to guide our lives. As we identified what God gives us, we posted those gifts on the wall for all to see.
Our task is to recognize the abundance God’s gifts. Yes, we may have to simplify. Yes, we may not be able to afford all the programs we have offered in the past.
The good news, however, is God is in our midst, giving us all we need: the love and grace that transforms us into something new. That is what makes us the richest people in the world.
--Jay Voorhees
God is Still In Control!
Miss Lladale Carey
Web Producer
UMCGiving.org
United Methodist Communications
To submit your own success stories on our blog send us an email at connectionalgiving@umcom.org
Monday, December 7, 2009
I Took Your Place
One day a man went to visit a church. He arrived early, parked the car, and got out. Another car pulled up near him, and the driver told him, “I always park there. You took my place!”
The visitor went inside for Sunday School, found an empty seat, and sat down. A young lady from the church approached him and stated, “That’s my seat! You took my place!”
The visitor was somewhat distressed by this rude welcome, but said nothing.
After Sunday School, the visitor went into the church sanctuary and sat down. Another member walked up to him and said, “That’s where I always sit. You took my place”!
The visitor was even more troubled by this treatment, but still said nothing.
Later, as the congregation was praying for Christ to dwell among them, the man stood, and his appearance began to change.
Horrible scars became visible on his hands and on his sandaled feet.
Someone form the congregation noticed him and called out, “What happened to you?”
The visitor replied, “I took your place.”
May you be content knowing you are a child of God. Let His presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, and to bask in the sun. It is there for each and everyone of you.
--Author unknown
Share the love of Christ this holiday season. Give. Encourage. Love.
To learn more about connectional giving click here.
God is Still in Control!
Miss Lladale Carey
Web Producer
UMCGiving.org
United Methodist Communications
One day a man went to visit a church. He arrived early, parked the car, and got out. Another car pulled up near him, and the driver told him, “I always park there. You took my place!”
The visitor went inside for Sunday School, found an empty seat, and sat down. A young lady from the church approached him and stated, “That’s my seat! You took my place!”
The visitor was somewhat distressed by this rude welcome, but said nothing.
After Sunday School, the visitor went into the church sanctuary and sat down. Another member walked up to him and said, “That’s where I always sit. You took my place”!
The visitor was even more troubled by this treatment, but still said nothing.
Later, as the congregation was praying for Christ to dwell among them, the man stood, and his appearance began to change.
Horrible scars became visible on his hands and on his sandaled feet.
Someone form the congregation noticed him and called out, “What happened to you?”
The visitor replied, “I took your place.”
May you be content knowing you are a child of God. Let His presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, and to bask in the sun. It is there for each and everyone of you.
--Author unknown
Share the love of Christ this holiday season. Give. Encourage. Love.
To learn more about connectional giving click here.
God is Still in Control!
Miss Lladale Carey
Web Producer
UMCGiving.org
United Methodist Communications
Monday, November 30, 2009
Let Us Give Thanks to God
I have so much for which to be thankful. Don’t you?
This past Thursday all across this country individuals celebrated Thanksgiving Day. This has been a tough year for many people. Just about everyone has been faced with examining their priorities. Many people may feel like they do not have much for which to be thankful. A lot of people have lost their jobs. Thousands of homes have been foreclosed. Retirement funds and savings accounts have dwindled.
This past Thursday all across this country individuals celebrated Thanksgiving Day. This has been a tough year for many people. Just about everyone has been faced with examining their priorities. Many people may feel like they do not have much for which to be thankful. A lot of people have lost their jobs. Thousands of homes have been foreclosed. Retirement funds and savings accounts have dwindled.
In reality some of us are more fortunate than others. Our circumstances are more pleasant. Our resources are more sufficient.
Do we give thanks only when times are good? Or is there always reason for thanksgiving? While it is not necessary to give thanks for our circumstances, it is always appropriate to give thanks in our circumstances.
I am grateful for God’s blessings in my life and at the moment my life is good. I have a job. I still own a house (and a mortgage). There is food on my table and I have a warm dry place to sleep. My family is scattered across the globe but we love and support each other. My health is good. My retirement account is recovering. It is easy for me to give thanks.
Paul instructed us to “give thanks in everything for this is the will of God concerning you.” He was not suggesting that everything that comes our way is the will of God. Many situations are simply the results of bad decisions by us or others. Tragic circumstances occur because of the evil in the world. Everything is not the will of God. But I believe that it is the will of God that we demonstrate an attitude of gratitude at all times.
We have faced hard times this past year and more difficulties will probably come along in the future but a spirit of thanksgiving is still appropriate. The Old Testament prophet, Habakkuk, spoke to people who were in very difficult circumstances. In desperate time when his food source was scarce and his livelihood in doubt, he said “Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation” (Habakkuk 3:18).
Whatever our circumstances let us give thanks to God--today and every day.
--excerpt from Jamie Jenkins, North Georgia Annual Conference
Let’s continue to show our love for one another by giving to others that do not have. Let’s continue to help support the connectional giving of our denomination. To learn more about giving click here.
Miss Lladale Carey
Web Producer
UMCGiving.org
If you have stories you would like to share through our blog, please send us an email at connectionalgiving@umcom.org.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Just Up the Road
Just up the road from my home is a field, with two horses in it. From a distance, each looks like every other horse. But if one stops the car, or is walking by, one will notice something quite amazing.
Looking into the eyes of one horse will disclose that he is blind. His owner has chosen not to have him put down, but has made a good home for him. This is alone is amazing.
Listening, one will hear the sound of a bell. Looking around for the source of the sound, one will see that it comes from the smaller horse in the field. Attached to her bridle is a small bell. It lets her blind friend know where she is, so he can follow her.
As one stands and watches these two friends, one sees how she is always checking on him, and that he will listen for her bell and then slowly walk to where she is, trusting that she will not lead him astray.
Like the owners of these two horses, God does not throw us away just because we are not perfect or because we have problems or challenges.
He watches over us and even brings others into our lives to help us when we are in need.
Sometimes we are the blind horse being guided by God and thoses whom he places in our lives. At other times we are the guide horse, helping others see God.
By giving 100% to your United Methodist Apportionments, you help others locally and around the world. To learn more click here.
God is Still in Control!
Miss Lladale Carey
Web Producer
UMCGiving.org
If you have stories you would like to share on the umcgiving.org blog, email us at: ConnectionalGiving@umco.org
Just up the road from my home is a field, with two horses in it. From a distance, each looks like every other horse. But if one stops the car, or is walking by, one will notice something quite amazing.
Looking into the eyes of one horse will disclose that he is blind. His owner has chosen not to have him put down, but has made a good home for him. This is alone is amazing.
Listening, one will hear the sound of a bell. Looking around for the source of the sound, one will see that it comes from the smaller horse in the field. Attached to her bridle is a small bell. It lets her blind friend know where she is, so he can follow her.
As one stands and watches these two friends, one sees how she is always checking on him, and that he will listen for her bell and then slowly walk to where she is, trusting that she will not lead him astray.
Like the owners of these two horses, God does not throw us away just because we are not perfect or because we have problems or challenges.
He watches over us and even brings others into our lives to help us when we are in need.
Sometimes we are the blind horse being guided by God and thoses whom he places in our lives. At other times we are the guide horse, helping others see God.
Author unknown.
By giving 100% to your United Methodist Apportionments, you help others locally and around the world. To learn more click here.
God is Still in Control!
Miss Lladale Carey
Web Producer
UMCGiving.org
If you have stories you would like to share on the umcgiving.org blog, email us at: ConnectionalGiving@umco.org
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Jonathan’s* heart sank when the college admissions clerk told him he needed a parent’s signature for his financial aid paperwork. He flashed back to the police hauling his mother to jail.“She’s in jail,” he said quietly.
“What about your father?” the clerk asked.
After hesitating, Jonathan answered, “He’s in prison.”
This is one young man’s story, among many at Bethune-Cookman University, Daytona Beach, Fla., where some students face several threats to their future. The good news is that there is hope, thanks to the generous gifts to United Methodism’s Black College Fund. Recognizing the importance of historically Black colleges and universities, 20 annual conferences remitted at 100 percent to the fund in 2008.
“The Black College Fund is very important to our institution because it provides scholarship funds for many first-generation students who come from very troubled backgrounds,” said Bethune-Cookman University President Dr. Trudie Kibbe Reed.
Troubled backgrounds need not translate into troubled futures. Intervention makes all the difference in the world.
“Some of these kids are homeless. That’s how important [intervention] is. It’s the difference between them having opportunity or not, and without that money we couldn’t possibly make ends meet,” Reed added.
The university’s mission is to serve, in the Christian tradition, the diverse educational, social and cultural needs of its students and to develop in them the desire and capacity for continuous intellectual and professional growth, leadership and service to others.
When United Methodists give to the Black College Fund apportionment, they ensure that Bethune-Cookman University and other historically Black colleges and universities can live up to their mission. Thank you!
*A pseudonym
--Dawn Gibson
God is still in control!
Miss Lladale Carey
Web Producer
UMCGiving.org
Do you have questions or concerns that you would like to post to the UMCGiving.org BLOG? Send them to us at ConnectionalGiving@umcom.org. I look forward to hearing from you.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Conference Merit Scholar
Congratulations to Sara Croissant on being selected for the Conference Merit Award from the North Texas Annual Conference. Sara is in her first year at Hendrix College, Conway, Ark., where she is majoring in environmental science with a minor in religion. She has been involved in youth council, youth choir, and mission trips, has been a member of the Conference Council on Youth Ministry since 2003 and a junior counselor for Conference camps for five years. Sara and her family attend First United Methodist Church, Denton, Texas.
The Conference Merit Award is funded by a rebate of 10% of the United Methodist Student Day Offering which is traditionally held the last Sunday in November.
As higher education costs rise and the economic crisis continues, the demand for student financial assistance has increased sharply. The United Methodist Student Day Offering provides scholarships and loans for people across the U.S.--maybe someone you know.
For more information and to see how you can support United Methodist Student Day, click here.
Thank you North Texas Annual Conference for your giving.
GOD is still in control!
Lladale Carey
Web Producer
UMCGiving.org
SpecialSundays@UMCOM.ORG
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
A Matter Of The Heart
"Egypt, Judah, Edom, the Ammonites, Moab, and all
God cares about our hearts because God needs our hearts to reach the hearts of others with the Good News of Jesus. This is the essence of our faith. In the time of Jeremiah the hearts of the Jewish people had become cluttered with things that are not of God. To circumcise the heart was to cut away all those things which separated them from God.
Give from the heart and give to help young people receive scholarships through the United Methodist Student Day, World Communion Sunday and Native American Ministries Sunday offerings.
To learn more about Special Sundays click here.
God is still in control
Miss Lladale Carey
Web Producer
UMCGiving.org
"Egypt, Judah, Edom, the Ammonites, Moab, and all
those with shaven temples who live in the desert.
For all these nations are uncircumcised,
and all of the house of Israel is uncircumcised in heart."
--A reflection based on Jeremiah 9:26
Give from the heart and give to help young people receive scholarships through the United Methodist Student Day, World Communion Sunday and Native American Ministries Sunday offerings.
--adapted from Bishop Wills' Life Journal Entry for 8/10/09
Donate now! To learn more about Special Sundays click here.
God is still in control
Miss Lladale Carey
Web Producer
UMCGiving.org
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Matthew 6
Giving to the Needy
1. "Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
2. "So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full.
3. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing,
4. so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Treasures in Heaven
19. "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.
20. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.
21. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
22. "The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light.
23. But if your eyes are bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
24. "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.
Do Not Worry
25. "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?
26. Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
27. Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life ?
28. "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin.
29. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.
30. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
31. So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'
32. For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
33. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
34. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
The scriptures have already told us how to live and how to give. Let's put into action our beliefs.
To donate to any of the 6 churchwide Special Sundays click here.
To learn more about the apportion funds click here. Please encourage your congregation/members to give 100% to all 7 apportion funds. There's still time.
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Giving to the Needy
1. "Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
2. "So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full.
3. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing,
4. so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Treasures in Heaven
19. "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.
20. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.
21. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
22. "The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light.
23. But if your eyes are bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
24. "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.
Do Not Worry
25. "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?
26. Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
27. Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life ?
28. "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin.
29. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.
30. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
31. So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'
32. For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
33. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
34. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
The scriptures have already told us how to live and how to give. Let's put into action our beliefs.
To donate to any of the 6 churchwide Special Sundays click here.
To learn more about the apportion funds click here. Please encourage your congregation/members to give 100% to all 7 apportion funds. There's still time.
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
United Methodist Student Day
“Scholarships have been a blessing for me,” says Elyssa Sanner, a member of Wesley United Methodist Church, Evans, Ga. “I would have pursued a college education without the help of scholarships, but having the scholarships made the financial burden easier. I worried less about the technicalities of getting a college degree, saved my parents from worrying and financial burden, and saved more for my future.”
She received a United Methodist Scholarship as an undergraduate and earned a Bachelor of Arts in English. She graduated from Georgia College and State University, Milledgeville, in May 2009. “I served the church I attended in Milledgeville,” Sanner recalls, “through participating in the choir, praise team and Bible studies, and serving as a youth counselor.”
Now at the University of North Carolina—Chapel Hill, she is “a first-year graduate student working towards a Master’s of Science in Library Science. I’m just beginning this journey, but I’m excited by the opportunities the field provides,” Sanner notes. She looks forward to “making information organized and accessible and being involved with creative solutions to the problems that arise with the transition from physical to digital libraries.”
When she graduates, Sanner adds, she hopes to work “as a reference librarian in a university setting, where I can educate students on the resources available to them for research.”
When United Methodists support United Methodist Student Day, Sanner asserts, they “will see a return on their offering! The offering is so much more than less money in your pocket; it is an investment in someone’s future. You might not know exactly who benefits from your gift, but you will see the future leaders of the church benefiting from a college education they might not receive otherwise.”
Please give generously to this Special Sunday offering November 29. Thank you!
--Barbara Dunlap-Berg
“Scholarships have been a blessing for me,” says Elyssa Sanner, a member of Wesley United Methodist Church, Evans, Ga. “I would have pursued a college education without the help of scholarships, but having the scholarships made the financial burden easier. I worried less about the technicalities of getting a college degree, saved my parents from worrying and financial burden, and saved more for my future.”She received a United Methodist Scholarship as an undergraduate and earned a Bachelor of Arts in English. She graduated from Georgia College and State University, Milledgeville, in May 2009. “I served the church I attended in Milledgeville,” Sanner recalls, “through participating in the choir, praise team and Bible studies, and serving as a youth counselor.”
Now at the University of North Carolina—Chapel Hill, she is “a first-year graduate student working towards a Master’s of Science in Library Science. I’m just beginning this journey, but I’m excited by the opportunities the field provides,” Sanner notes. She looks forward to “making information organized and accessible and being involved with creative solutions to the problems that arise with the transition from physical to digital libraries.”
When she graduates, Sanner adds, she hopes to work “as a reference librarian in a university setting, where I can educate students on the resources available to them for research.”
When United Methodists support United Methodist Student Day, Sanner asserts, they “will see a return on their offering! The offering is so much more than less money in your pocket; it is an investment in someone’s future. You might not know exactly who benefits from your gift, but you will see the future leaders of the church benefiting from a college education they might not receive otherwise.”
Please give generously to this Special Sunday offering November 29. Thank you!
--Barbara Dunlap-Berg
To Donate click here.
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Blessings
Today as I boarded a bus, I saw a lovely girl with golden hair, I envied her, she seemed so gay and I wished I were as fair. When suddenly she rose to leave, I saw her hobble down the aisle; she had one leg and wore a crutch but as she passed, she flashed a smile Oh, God, forgive me when I whine, I have two legs, the world is mine.
And then I stopped to buy some sweets, the lad who sold it had such charm. I talked with him, he seemed so glad. If I were late to work it would do no harm; and as I left, he said to me, “I thak you, you have been so kind. It’s nice to talk with folks like you. you see,” he said, “I’m blind.” Oh, God, forgive me when I whine, I have two eyes, the world is mine.
Later while walking down the street, I saw a girl with eyes of blue. She stood and watched the others play; it seemed she knew not what to do. I stopped a moment and then I said, “Why don’t you join the others dear?” She looked ahead without a word, and then I knew she couldn’t hear. Oh, God, forgive me when I whine, I have two ears, the world is mine.
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine, I have two ears, the world is mine. With legs to take me where I want to go, with eyes to see the sunset glow. With ears to hear what I would know. Oh, God, forgive me when I whine, I have you and the world is mine. Author Unknown
Show God how much you love him by giving to those who do not have. Encourage your congregation/members to give 100% of all apportion funds. If you would like to give to any Special Sundays with offerings click here.
God has blessed us with so much, let's give back just a little.
God is still in control!
Miss Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
United Methodist Communications
Today as I boarded a bus, I saw a lovely girl with golden hair, I envied her, she seemed so gay and I wished I were as fair. When suddenly she rose to leave, I saw her hobble down the aisle; she had one leg and wore a crutch but as she passed, she flashed a smile Oh, God, forgive me when I whine, I have two legs, the world is mine.
And then I stopped to buy some sweets, the lad who sold it had such charm. I talked with him, he seemed so glad. If I were late to work it would do no harm; and as I left, he said to me, “I thak you, you have been so kind. It’s nice to talk with folks like you. you see,” he said, “I’m blind.” Oh, God, forgive me when I whine, I have two eyes, the world is mine.
Later while walking down the street, I saw a girl with eyes of blue. She stood and watched the others play; it seemed she knew not what to do. I stopped a moment and then I said, “Why don’t you join the others dear?” She looked ahead without a word, and then I knew she couldn’t hear. Oh, God, forgive me when I whine, I have two ears, the world is mine.
Oh, God, forgive me when I whine, I have two ears, the world is mine. With legs to take me where I want to go, with eyes to see the sunset glow. With ears to hear what I would know. Oh, God, forgive me when I whine, I have you and the world is mine. Author Unknown
Show God how much you love him by giving to those who do not have. Encourage your congregation/members to give 100% of all apportion funds. If you would like to give to any Special Sundays with offerings click here.
God has blessed us with so much, let's give back just a little.
God is still in control!
Miss Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
United Methodist Communications
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
“The heart of Christian mission,” says World Communion Scholar Akiko Miyake-Stoner,” is to show God’s love to the world.”
The Master of Divinity student at Pacific School of Religion, Berkeley, Calif., believes strongly in empowering “people to actualize and realize their gifts. Because The United Methodist Church’s mission is ‘to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world,’ it is important to cultivate and use our gifts to change systems of oppression while addressing direct needs.
“Christian mission,” she contends, “is tied definitely, inextricably with the world. The church should not be a cloistered institution. It should be engaged with the issues that affect God’s creation and advocate for justice and mercy in the world. When I share my faith and the challenges I face, I hope to empower others to pursue lives that strive for justice through educational programs and compassionate pastoral care.”
The future “pastor of a Japanese-American church or an elders’ chaplain” says seminary has provided “opportunities to think deeply about systems of oppression and how we, as future faith leaders, can address these within our congregations. I have learned about the history of Christian worship and how to make worship applicable to people today. I am doing my field education at a historically, predominately Japanese-American church, which is teaching me to apply what I learn in class.”
Because of generous sharing on World Communion Sunday, committed Christians like Akiko Miyake-Stoner grow spiritually and educationally. “I want people of different cultures to see the beauty and resources within their own worldviews and to find pride and confidence in them,” she says. “I want people to feel comfortable in their own social locations. This enables more authentic dialogue between people of various cultures. Each culture can use its strengths for the betterment of the world.”
--Barbara Dunlap-Berg
The Master of Divinity student at Pacific School of Religion, Berkeley, Calif., believes strongly in empowering “people to actualize and realize their gifts. Because The United Methodist Church’s mission is ‘to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world,’ it is important to cultivate and use our gifts to change systems of oppression while addressing direct needs.
“Christian mission,” she contends, “is tied definitely, inextricably with the world. The church should not be a cloistered institution. It should be engaged with the issues that affect God’s creation and advocate for justice and mercy in the world. When I share my faith and the challenges I face, I hope to empower others to pursue lives that strive for justice through educational programs and compassionate pastoral care.”
The future “pastor of a Japanese-American church or an elders’ chaplain” says seminary has provided “opportunities to think deeply about systems of oppression and how we, as future faith leaders, can address these within our congregations. I have learned about the history of Christian worship and how to make worship applicable to people today. I am doing my field education at a historically, predominately Japanese-American church, which is teaching me to apply what I learn in class.”
Because of generous sharing on World Communion Sunday, committed Christians like Akiko Miyake-Stoner grow spiritually and educationally. “I want people of different cultures to see the beauty and resources within their own worldviews and to find pride and confidence in them,” she says. “I want people to feel comfortable in their own social locations. This enables more authentic dialogue between people of various cultures. Each culture can use its strengths for the betterment of the world.”
Your World Communion Sunday gifts are essential to the academic and spiritual growth of scholars like Akiko Miyake-Stoner.
Please give to World Communion Sunday and all the Special Sundays with offerings. Don't forget World Communion Sunday is October 4, 2009 but you can collect the offering anytime during the year.
--Barbara Dunlap-BergLladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Friday, September 25, 2009
In many Indonesian churches, World Communion Scholar Rahel Daulay said, “Worship is not accompanied by any instrument or sound system.” She likes it that way. “I strongly believe John and Charles Wesley did not focus their hymns on the musical instrument, [but rather] on the power of the words that came from their spirituality,” she added.During her years at Jakarta Theological Seminary, Daulay concentrated on liturgy and church music. Today she is an assistant pastor at Wesley Methodist Church, Jakarta, Indonesia, ready to embark on further study at Trinity Theological College in Singapore.
A World Communion Scholarship, made possible by the World Communion Sunday offering, is making her new venture possible.
By studying congregational development and leadership, Daulay hopes to enrich her ability “to conduct Bible study and teach subjects related to liturgy and church music. Upon graduation from my master’s program, I intend to go back to Indonesia to continue my ministries.”
She continued, “We learned from the history of the expansion of Methodist mission in America. Hymns, particularly those composed by Charles and John Wesley, [were] very powerful to attract people to Jesus Christ. Christian worship that consists of hymns, music and the word of God becomes the instrument of mission.”
Daulay wants “the Methodist church in Indonesia to enable people to renew their lives and revive their faith.” Broadening her vision is the key.
“Even though I am going to leave my full-time job to continue my education,” she noted, “I will not stop serving God. I hope to expand my horizon of ministries in music and evangelism during my graduate study. My goal is to create worship and liturgy that combine Methodist traditions in today’s context.”
Your World Communion Sunday gifts are essential to the academic and spiritual growth of scholars like Rahel Daulay.
Donate Now!
--Barbara Dunlap-Berg
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Zimbabweans step up to help students
By Kathy L. Gilbert
James Salley introduces Grace Muradzikwa
as an “outstanding fundraiser” during
an Africa University recognition dinner.
A UMNS photo by Vicki Brown.
as an “outstanding fundraiser” during
an Africa University recognition dinner.
A UMNS photo by Vicki Brown.
Africa University was established by The United Methodist Church in 1993.A UMNS file photo byMike DuBose.Grace Muradzikwa is a successful executive in Zimbabwe.
But it was her mother’s heart that responded when she heard more than 300 Africa University students didn’t have the money to go back to school.
Muradzikwa turned to the business community of Zimbabwe and raised $100,000 for scholarships in a country where the economy has collapsed and many companies are only operating at 25 percent of capacity.
The effort gave some 60 students the opportunity to continue their education, and showed how a nation could come together to provide a better future for the next generation, Muradzikwa said.
“I have three children who are currently attending university,” she said at a recent Africa University advisory development committee meeting. “And I couldn’t imagine what any mother or parent must be facing if they had a child in the middle of their studies but did not have the money to let them complete their education.”
Please encourage your congregation to give 100% to the Africa University Apportion Fund to help students continue their education. Visit our website at umcgiving.org/auf.
God is still in control!
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Jonathan’s* heart sank when the college admissions clerk told him he needed a parent’s signature for his financial aid paperwork. He flashed back to the police hauling his mother to jail.
“She’s in jail,” he said quietly.
“What about your father?” the clerk asked.
After hesitating, Jonathan answered, “He’s in prison.”
*****
This is one young man’s story, among many at Bethune-Cookman University, Daytona Beach, Fla., where some students face several threats to their future. The good news is that there is hope, thanks to the generous gifts to United Methodism’s Black College Fund. Recognizing the importance of historically Black colleges and universities, 20 annual conferences remitted at 100 percent to the fund in 2008.
“The Black College Fund is very important to our institution because it provides scholarship funds for many first-generation students who come from very troubled backgrounds,” said Bethune-Cookman University President Dr. Trudie Kibbe Reed.
Troubled backgrounds need not translate into troubled futures. Intervention makes all the difference in the world.
“Some of these kids are homeless. That’s how important [intervention] is. It’s the difference between them having opportunity or not, and without that money we couldn’t possibly make ends meet,” Reed added.
The university’s mission is to serve, in the Christian tradition, the diverse educational, social and cultural needs of its students and to develop in them the desire and capacity for continuous intellectual and professional growth, leadership and service to others.
When United Methodists give to the Black College Fund apportionment, they ensure that Bethune-Cookman University and other historically Black colleges and universities can live up to their mission. Thank you!
Please encourge your congregation to give 100% to the Black College Fund apportionment. You can help other youth like Jonathan find hope out of a troubled childhood.
*A pseudonym
--Dawn Gibson
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Some people refer to them as “preacher’s kids.” Josefa Bethea Wall prefers to call herself a “theological offspring.”The daughter of a preacher and a teacher, Bethea Wall’s parents served The United Methodist Church for nearly 40 years. It was one of many legacies they passed on to their daughter.
“I am a child of the Central Jurisdiction,” Bethea Wall laughed. “I grew up connected to church and to church-related schools. You could say I was born to be a servant leader in the church.”
If there is a legacy as strong as the Methodist roots Bethea Wall inherited from her parents, it is her connection to Bennett College for Women, one of 11 historically Black United Methodist colleges and universities. Located in Greensboro, N.C., Bennett was a second home for the young Bethea Wall. It’s also where her mother, grandmother and godmother attended and graduated.
The decision to make Bennett her college home was easy. It made geographical—and historical—sense.
“I understood the significance of continuing the legacy,” Bethea Wall said. “And I knew at a small, historically Black college I would be nurtured.
“When there are 500 of you instead of 5,000, you have more opportunities to put your hands on people and experiences that impact your life,” she added. “At Bennett, I got to see the world first hand—not just from someone else’s eyes.”
Bethea Wall is a graduate of Bennett College for Women. She works in nonprofit management with a focus on education.
Please encourage your congregation to support the Black College Fund apportionment at 100% so young people like Ms. Wall can make a difference in our future.
For more information visit our website at umcgiving.org/BCF.
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
GIVING
Should we continue to give in today's economy?
Of course. God never promised us a rose garden. He told us if we trust and obey he would supply all our needs. (Matthew 6:31-34) The consequences of not giving is not good. (2 Corinthians 9:6-8) Instead of running from God during these difficult times, let us draw closer to God. (Matthew 11:28-30) Let us listen and obey his SON, Jesus Christ who paid the ultimate price--HIS LIFE. (Acts 5:29-31)
Please continue to give knowing that you are giving to the Lord not to man. Encourage your congregation to give 100% to all seven apportion funds and give generously to the six Special Sundays in which you can now give online.
GOD IS STILL IN CONTROL!
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Should we continue to give in today's economy?
Of course. God never promised us a rose garden. He told us if we trust and obey he would supply all our needs. (Matthew 6:31-34) The consequences of not giving is not good. (2 Corinthians 9:6-8) Instead of running from God during these difficult times, let us draw closer to God. (Matthew 11:28-30) Let us listen and obey his SON, Jesus Christ who paid the ultimate price--HIS LIFE. (Acts 5:29-31)
Please continue to give knowing that you are giving to the Lord not to man. Encourage your congregation to give 100% to all seven apportion funds and give generously to the six Special Sundays in which you can now give online.
GOD IS STILL IN CONTROL!
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
A Matter Of The Heart
A refection based on Jeremiah 9:26 "Egypt, Judah, Edom, the Ammonites, Moab, and all those with shaven temples who live in the desert. For all these nations are uncircumcised, and all of the house of Israel is uncircumcised in heart."God cares about our hearts because God needs our hearts to reach the hearts of others with the Good News of Jesus. This is the essence of our faith. In the time of Jeremiah the hearts of the Jewish people had become cluttered with things that are not of God. To circumcise the heart was to cut away all those things which separated them from God.
Give from the heart and give to help young people receive scholarships through the United Methodist Student Day, World Communion Sunday and Native American Ministries Sunday offerings.
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
A refection based on Jeremiah 9:26 "Egypt, Judah, Edom, the Ammonites, Moab, and all those with shaven temples who live in the desert. For all these nations are uncircumcised, and all of the house of Israel is uncircumcised in heart."God cares about our hearts because God needs our hearts to reach the hearts of others with the Good News of Jesus. This is the essence of our faith. In the time of Jeremiah the hearts of the Jewish people had become cluttered with things that are not of God. To circumcise the heart was to cut away all those things which separated them from God.
Give from the heart and give to help young people receive scholarships through the United Methodist Student Day, World Communion Sunday and Native American Ministries Sunday offerings.
Bishop Wills' Life Journal Entry for August 10, 2009
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Matthew Chapter 5
[1] And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him:
[2] And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,
[3] Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
[4] Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
[5] Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
[6] Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
[7] Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
[8] Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
[9] Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
In these days and time, so many people are hurting; losing their jobs, homes and just trying to make ends meet. However, let's remember the words of Jesus when he taught the disciples and the multitude from the mountain top. He knows what we are going through and he knows what we need. If we just trust and obey, he will open doors that we cannot see.
Give. Pray. Give.
What is Connectional Giving?
His child
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
[1] And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him:
[2] And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,
[3] Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
[4] Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
[5] Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
[6] Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
[7] Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
[8] Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
[9] Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
In these days and time, so many people are hurting; losing their jobs, homes and just trying to make ends meet. However, let's remember the words of Jesus when he taught the disciples and the multitude from the mountain top. He knows what we are going through and he knows what we need. If we just trust and obey, he will open doors that we cannot see.
Give. Pray. Give.
What is Connectional Giving?
His child
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Thursday, July 30, 2009
What is Connectional Giving?
It’s as simple as people coming together, combining their money to accomplish something bigger than themselves. United Methodists support apportioned and designated funds through their connectional gifts. The General Conference establishes budgets for the denomination’s general funds. These are divided among annual conferences, based on a specific formula. In addition, individuals, local churches, districts and annual conferences may make monetary gifts to the designated funds, of which 100 percent goes directly to a specific project or ministry. Together, apportioned and designated funds represent our connectional giving.
By combining several smaller gifts into a larger amount, we can effect change across the world. Individual churches can minister to a small area; however, as a connectional church, we can do big things, all in the name of Jesus Christ.
Please encourage your congregation to give 100% to all the Apportion Funds: Africa University, Black College Fund, Episcopal Fund, General Administration Fund, Interdenominational Cooperation Fund, Ministerial Education Fund and the World Service Fund.
You can give directly online to help support any of the Special Sundays with offerings: Human Relations Day, Native American Ministries, One Great Hour of Sharing, Peace with Justice, United Methodist Student Day and World Communion Sunday.
Thanks
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
It’s as simple as people coming together, combining their money to accomplish something bigger than themselves. United Methodists support apportioned and designated funds through their connectional gifts. The General Conference establishes budgets for the denomination’s general funds. These are divided among annual conferences, based on a specific formula. In addition, individuals, local churches, districts and annual conferences may make monetary gifts to the designated funds, of which 100 percent goes directly to a specific project or ministry. Together, apportioned and designated funds represent our connectional giving.
By combining several smaller gifts into a larger amount, we can effect change across the world. Individual churches can minister to a small area; however, as a connectional church, we can do big things, all in the name of Jesus Christ.
Please encourage your congregation to give 100% to all the Apportion Funds: Africa University, Black College Fund, Episcopal Fund, General Administration Fund, Interdenominational Cooperation Fund, Ministerial Education Fund and the World Service Fund.
You can give directly online to help support any of the Special Sundays with offerings: Human Relations Day, Native American Ministries, One Great Hour of Sharing, Peace with Justice, United Methodist Student Day and World Communion Sunday.
Thanks
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Urgent Need for Scholarship Donations
United Methodist scholarship and loan applicants are being turned away because of limited education funds. There is an urgent need for donations to United Methodist Student Day. The student you help may be one of your own. Your church will receive credit for donations made online at www.umcgiving.org/UMSD.
Limited education funds are another sign of the hard times many inside and outside of The United Methodist church are facing. You may know of a student in your congregation who is struggling to go to college. We’re asking you to make your congregation aware of the economic challenges facing many deserving United Methodist students.
The time for giving is now. While the suggested date for United Methodist Student Day is November 29, you can celebrate and receive an offering for this ministry at any time. Please inform your congregation of the important role it plays in making educational dreams come true for promising United Methodist students and encourage them to “put a little extra” in the offering plate or envelope. Remind them that each year funds are returned to annual conferences for merit scholarship awards to students of their choosing.
For help promoting United Methodist Student Day, click here.
Give now so students can go to college!
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
United Methodist scholarship and loan applicants are being turned away because of limited education funds. There is an urgent need for donations to United Methodist Student Day. The student you help may be one of your own. Your church will receive credit for donations made online at www.umcgiving.org/UMSD.
Limited education funds are another sign of the hard times many inside and outside of The United Methodist church are facing. You may know of a student in your congregation who is struggling to go to college. We’re asking you to make your congregation aware of the economic challenges facing many deserving United Methodist students.
The time for giving is now. While the suggested date for United Methodist Student Day is November 29, you can celebrate and receive an offering for this ministry at any time. Please inform your congregation of the important role it plays in making educational dreams come true for promising United Methodist students and encourage them to “put a little extra” in the offering plate or envelope. Remind them that each year funds are returned to annual conferences for merit scholarship awards to students of their choosing.
For help promoting United Methodist Student Day, click here.
Give now so students can go to college!
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Doors to Education
"As a World Communion Scholar . . . I can concentrate on what really counts: helping people who are in the darkest corner of addiction and despair to find a new life in Christ." says Laura Pressley.
Miss Pressley will use her skills she received as a World Communion Scholar to help women dealing with addiction. The faces and stories of the women she met while volunteering on a first-aid squad have stayed with her as she pursues a master's degree in counseling and addiction ministry at Methodist Theological School in Ohio. She hopes to create an inner-city residential treatment program for women of color.
"I know it's God's will for my life because I've never felt so much at peace with myself" says Laura Pressley.
Without Scholarship help from funds raised on World Communion Sunday, Miss Pressley wouldn't have been able to sign up for classes this year.
To help Laura and other students reduce their school debt, please give to the World Communion Sunday offering. Click here to give online.
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Miss Pressley will use her skills she received as a World Communion Scholar to help women dealing with addiction. The faces and stories of the women she met while volunteering on a first-aid squad have stayed with her as she pursues a master's degree in counseling and addiction ministry at Methodist Theological School in Ohio. She hopes to create an inner-city residential treatment program for women of color.
"I know it's God's will for my life because I've never felt so much at peace with myself" says Laura Pressley.
Without Scholarship help from funds raised on World Communion Sunday, Miss Pressley wouldn't have been able to sign up for classes this year.
To help Laura and other students reduce their school debt, please give to the World Communion Sunday offering. Click here to give online.
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
“I have a passion for people. My pharmacy practice will be an opportunity for me to serve, share my faith with others and lead by example to improve the spiritual and physical well-being of my patients” says Todd Sega. Grateful for your generous gifts to the United Methodist Student Day offering, Todd thinks frequently about the importance of faith in his life. “When I left for school, thinking about my church family and the scholarship I received, I felt fully embraced and supported by The United Methodist Church. As a result, I am motivated to achieve my personal best.”
Like many things, college costs continue to rise. Thanks to United Methodist Student Day, people in your annual conference – perhaps even members of your family—have a chance to attain a higher education. Students attending United Methodist and other accredited colleges and universities receive scholarships and loans.
Please give so young people like Todd can receive a higher education and make a difference in our world today and tomorrow. You can give online to the United Methodist Student Day Sunday offering at any time by clicking here.
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Like many things, college costs continue to rise. Thanks to United Methodist Student Day, people in your annual conference – perhaps even members of your family—have a chance to attain a higher education. Students attending United Methodist and other accredited colleges and universities receive scholarships and loans.
Please give so young people like Todd can receive a higher education and make a difference in our world today and tomorrow. You can give online to the United Methodist Student Day Sunday offering at any time by clicking here.
Lladale Carey
Web Coordinator
UMCGiving.org
United Methodsit Communications
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
The Weakest Link
I remember watching The Weakest Link on TV a few years back. I enjoyed the program and I drew from it how everyone together on this earth are working together, and that we truly are only as strong as our weakest link.
This can be applied to The United Methodist Church. Together, we are connectional. We derive our strength from working together toward a common goal – making disciples for Christ. To fund mission work around the globe, we all pool our resources together – across the connection. One church cannot save the world, but thousands of churches working together can!
But, what if one of these churches decides that it doesn’t want to play nice with others and remit their apportionments for the greater good? We then only become as strong as our weakest link. It is vital that every church remit its apportioned amount to The Church. Together, we can make a difference.
This can be applied to The United Methodist Church. Together, we are connectional. We derive our strength from working together toward a common goal – making disciples for Christ. To fund mission work around the globe, we all pool our resources together – across the connection. One church cannot save the world, but thousands of churches working together can!
But, what if one of these churches decides that it doesn’t want to play nice with others and remit their apportionments for the greater good? We then only become as strong as our weakest link. It is vital that every church remit its apportioned amount to The Church. Together, we can make a difference.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Connecting from afar
I just got back from vacation – we had a great time, thanks – and while we were gone, I wondered where we would go to church. We’ve never been to Virginia Beach before and didn’t have a clue about the area. My solution: Find-A-Church. I was able to access this directory and find a quaint little church to attend this past Sunday.
But, while at church, I was presented with the dilemma about giving. Do I give my normal tithe to a church I have never been to? Do I save the tithe and give it to my regular church of worship? I prayed to God about this before the offering was taken. And God answered my prayer rather quickly! In the bulletin was an offering envelope for One Great Hour of Sharing. I put my tithe and offering into the offering envelope knowing that from afar, I was connecting with my local church as we all celebrate One Great Hour of Sharing.
That’s what I love about The United Methodist Church. We are all connected to a larger church. As individual churches, we can accomplish small tasks. But as a connected church, we can accomplish mighty tasks. I hope you had the opportunity to celebrate One Great Hour of Sharing this past week. The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) relies on your offerings to help those who are hurting find refuge around the world.
If you didn’t have the opportunity, you can give online at any time by visiting our secure e-give site.
--Tracy Wood, Web Coordinator, United Methodist Communications
But, while at church, I was presented with the dilemma about giving. Do I give my normal tithe to a church I have never been to? Do I save the tithe and give it to my regular church of worship? I prayed to God about this before the offering was taken. And God answered my prayer rather quickly! In the bulletin was an offering envelope for One Great Hour of Sharing. I put my tithe and offering into the offering envelope knowing that from afar, I was connecting with my local church as we all celebrate One Great Hour of Sharing.
That’s what I love about The United Methodist Church. We are all connected to a larger church. As individual churches, we can accomplish small tasks. But as a connected church, we can accomplish mighty tasks. I hope you had the opportunity to celebrate One Great Hour of Sharing this past week. The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) relies on your offerings to help those who are hurting find refuge around the world.
If you didn’t have the opportunity, you can give online at any time by visiting our secure e-give site.
--Tracy Wood, Web Coordinator, United Methodist Communications
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Where is the Value?
There is a TV show called “Dirty Jobs” which I’m convinced owes its popularity to the need we all have to see someone whose working conditions are worse than ours. Maybe we should apply the same principle to our feelings about the slumping economy.
Consider that recently Zimbabwe, suffering from inflation clocked at 231 million percent, recently dropped 12 zeroes from their currency. In one day, one trillion Zimbabwe dollars became the equivalent of one dollar. Talk about a change in fortune? I was at a dinner for supporters of the United Methodist-related Africa University and the Interim Vice Chancellor, took a two billion dollar note out of his pocket and gave it away. “There really is nothing we can buy with it.”
As we reflect on the economy, maybe we need to use another yardstick for our wealth than just the number of dollars in our pocket, purser, or bank account. Do you still have a home? Can you and your family receive healthcare? Do you have transportation? Did you get enough to eat yesterday? Did you have clean water to drink?
After all, it is all about the value we put on things. Whether it is the piece of paper on which is printed the words ‘One Trillion Zimbabwe Dollars” or the face of our child who was able to get amoxicillin for their sore throat and will never have to know the threat of malaria.
Where is the value in your life?
--Rev. Dr. Ken Sloane, United Methodist Communications
Consider that recently Zimbabwe, suffering from inflation clocked at 231 million percent, recently dropped 12 zeroes from their currency. In one day, one trillion Zimbabwe dollars became the equivalent of one dollar. Talk about a change in fortune? I was at a dinner for supporters of the United Methodist-related Africa University and the Interim Vice Chancellor, took a two billion dollar note out of his pocket and gave it away. “There really is nothing we can buy with it.”
As we reflect on the economy, maybe we need to use another yardstick for our wealth than just the number of dollars in our pocket, purser, or bank account. Do you still have a home? Can you and your family receive healthcare? Do you have transportation? Did you get enough to eat yesterday? Did you have clean water to drink?
After all, it is all about the value we put on things. Whether it is the piece of paper on which is printed the words ‘One Trillion Zimbabwe Dollars” or the face of our child who was able to get amoxicillin for their sore throat and will never have to know the threat of malaria.
Where is the value in your life?
--Rev. Dr. Ken Sloane, United Methodist Communications
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Renew and Grow
Spring comes and the days are long and everything has the chance to bloom and grow again. Does springtime affect your soul? Do you allow your soul a chance to bloom and grow again? Do you let a rebirth occur? Do you let in the fresh air and the spirit of God to cleanse the cobwebs in your soul?
My prayer for today is that you’ll let springtime come into your soul and allow it to blossom and grow into what it is that God wants. That you’ll let God come and sweep out the old and allow the new to be ushered in. Allow the cleansing power of God to refresh and renew your faith and soul.
Speaking of growth, did you know that you can help grow Native American churches at any time? You can by giving to Native American Ministries Sunday at any time by visiting our secure e-give site.
My prayer for today is that you’ll let springtime come into your soul and allow it to blossom and grow into what it is that God wants. That you’ll let God come and sweep out the old and allow the new to be ushered in. Allow the cleansing power of God to refresh and renew your faith and soul.
Speaking of growth, did you know that you can help grow Native American churches at any time? You can by giving to Native American Ministries Sunday at any time by visiting our secure e-give site.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Living a Generous Life
As I was searching for a topic for this weeks blog entry, I stumbled upon this article for 85 Broads. I think it is very fitting and also very challenging for all of us in this economic turmoil. Remember, God has so richly blessed us and only asks a small portion of what has given to us. By making tithing and offerings a priority in our lives, God will continue to bless us with all we need.
Here is the article:
The playwright George Bernard Shaw said, "The possibilities are numerous once we decide to act and not to react".
In 2008, the world saw a lot of economic reactions. From the fall of Wall Street and the near collapse of the U.S. economy, many of us reacted by pulling our purse strings tighter and deciding to "hunker down" until the end of the recession.
As 2009 approaches, you and I have a unique opportunity to put aside reacting and put action front and center. Taking action will help the world recover and rebound. However, action without heart and connection to the greater good could get us back where we started. To guide you in taking your action in the new year, I offer you a tool that never fails: leading with generosity.
What does it mean to lead with generosity?
According to Webster's Dictionary, generosity is "the habit of giving." But as we leap into a new year filled with new possibilities, let's add to it "the habit of giving... especially when it feels terrifying!" Now is not the time to give less. Now, especially in these tough economic times, is the time to give to your fullest potential.
We cannot create the possible until we practice what feels impossible. In 2009 I urge you to take a leap like you've never taken before. What do you have to lose? Be as generous as you can in anyway that you can in every moment that presents itself. By doing so, you will develop a habit of giving that will transform the world. It will also transform you.
Being generous does not mean making a charitable gift that you cannot afford. However, being generous does mean writing any size check, even if you're worried about money.
Being generous does not mean overextending yourself to a point of fatigue and burnout. However, being generous does mean revisiting the priorities you set and ensuring that the material does not supersede the spiritual.
Being generous does not mean allowing others to take advantage of your talents and gifts. However, being generous does mean offering your talents and gifts without expectation of return.
We cannot ask of our business and political leaders that which we do not practice and model. Someone has got to illustrate what generosity and giving look like.
In 2009, have that someone be you.
Here is the article:
The playwright George Bernard Shaw said, "The possibilities are numerous once we decide to act and not to react".
In 2008, the world saw a lot of economic reactions. From the fall of Wall Street and the near collapse of the U.S. economy, many of us reacted by pulling our purse strings tighter and deciding to "hunker down" until the end of the recession.
As 2009 approaches, you and I have a unique opportunity to put aside reacting and put action front and center. Taking action will help the world recover and rebound. However, action without heart and connection to the greater good could get us back where we started. To guide you in taking your action in the new year, I offer you a tool that never fails: leading with generosity.
What does it mean to lead with generosity?
According to Webster's Dictionary, generosity is "the habit of giving." But as we leap into a new year filled with new possibilities, let's add to it "the habit of giving... especially when it feels terrifying!" Now is not the time to give less. Now, especially in these tough economic times, is the time to give to your fullest potential.
We cannot create the possible until we practice what feels impossible. In 2009 I urge you to take a leap like you've never taken before. What do you have to lose? Be as generous as you can in anyway that you can in every moment that presents itself. By doing so, you will develop a habit of giving that will transform the world. It will also transform you.
Being generous does not mean making a charitable gift that you cannot afford. However, being generous does mean writing any size check, even if you're worried about money.
Being generous does not mean overextending yourself to a point of fatigue and burnout. However, being generous does mean revisiting the priorities you set and ensuring that the material does not supersede the spiritual.
Being generous does not mean allowing others to take advantage of your talents and gifts. However, being generous does mean offering your talents and gifts without expectation of return.
We cannot ask of our business and political leaders that which we do not practice and model. Someone has got to illustrate what generosity and giving look like.
In 2009, have that someone be you.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Where is your treasure?
What does it mean to be generous? Does it mean a $10,000 check to the church? Does it mean giving to a noble cause? While these are worthy ideas, Jesus measures generosity by a zealous new standard – the condition of the giver’s heart. In Matthew, Jesus said “For where your treasure is, there you heart will be also” (6:21).
If your treasure is in gold, there your heart will be also. If your treasure is in material possessions, there your heart will be also. If your treasure is in the Lord, there your heart will also be.
Giving is so much more than an obligation for followers of Christ – it’s an opportunity to put your heart in the Lord and your treasure in eternity. After all, Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give then to receive” (Acts 20:35b). Yet statistics show that U.S. Christians give proportionately less than we did during the Great Depression. Today, like no other time in history, God has positioned people with unprecedented wealth and opportunity to glorify the risen Christ by mirroring the Lord's generosity.
Will you put your treasure in the Lord? Will you continue to be a generous giver and lay your treasures in eternity rather than the fleeting? Will you glorify the Lord by mirroring the actions and words of God?
--Tracy Wood, Web Coordinator, Stratgeic Marketing and Research Team, United Methodist Communications
If your treasure is in gold, there your heart will be also. If your treasure is in material possessions, there your heart will be also. If your treasure is in the Lord, there your heart will also be.
Giving is so much more than an obligation for followers of Christ – it’s an opportunity to put your heart in the Lord and your treasure in eternity. After all, Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give then to receive” (Acts 20:35b). Yet statistics show that U.S. Christians give proportionately less than we did during the Great Depression. Today, like no other time in history, God has positioned people with unprecedented wealth and opportunity to glorify the risen Christ by mirroring the Lord's generosity.
Will you put your treasure in the Lord? Will you continue to be a generous giver and lay your treasures in eternity rather than the fleeting? Will you glorify the Lord by mirroring the actions and words of God?
--Tracy Wood, Web Coordinator, Stratgeic Marketing and Research Team, United Methodist Communications
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Lent and a java jolt
Lent is quickly approaching this year. I use Lent as a time of meditation and self-reflection. Others use the 40 days as a time of cleansing and self-renewal. One common bond of those observing Lent is the denial of something important to them. For instance, chocolate, TV, smoking, gambling, etc.
Each year I struggle with Lent. There are many things I could give up, but what would make the biggest difference in my life? Chocolate? My waistline might shrink a little, but in the grand scheme, it’s not that big of a deal. TV? Yes, that would be very difficult, but again, it’s a molehill among mountains.
This year I have been meditating on what it is that God wants me to deny myself. And I think He’s shown me. Starbucks. I admit I am a Starbucks junkie. I just can’t turn down a Mocha Light Frappuccino.
But in the meditation, God pressed upon my heart the need to make a difference through my denial. How I asked? God showed me that I could make a difference if I put aside the money I would have spent at Starbucks and gave it to The Church. Yes! That’s it – I can make a difference through One Great Hour of Sharing.
One Great Hour of Sharing is coming up on March 22 and I plan to donate the money I would have spent on my java addiction to the offering. I can help provide refuge for people who are displaced around the world. I can help advocate for peace and help develop leaders in Christ.
Will I suffer caffeine withdrawal headaches? Yes. Will I long daily for my java jolt? You bet. Will it be worth it? Absolutely.
Each year I struggle with Lent. There are many things I could give up, but what would make the biggest difference in my life? Chocolate? My waistline might shrink a little, but in the grand scheme, it’s not that big of a deal. TV? Yes, that would be very difficult, but again, it’s a molehill among mountains.
This year I have been meditating on what it is that God wants me to deny myself. And I think He’s shown me. Starbucks. I admit I am a Starbucks junkie. I just can’t turn down a Mocha Light Frappuccino.
But in the meditation, God pressed upon my heart the need to make a difference through my denial. How I asked? God showed me that I could make a difference if I put aside the money I would have spent at Starbucks and gave it to The Church. Yes! That’s it – I can make a difference through One Great Hour of Sharing.
One Great Hour of Sharing is coming up on March 22 and I plan to donate the money I would have spent on my java addiction to the offering. I can help provide refuge for people who are displaced around the world. I can help advocate for peace and help develop leaders in Christ.
Will I suffer caffeine withdrawal headaches? Yes. Will I long daily for my java jolt? You bet. Will it be worth it? Absolutely.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Hope
It’s all about Hope.
It’s a word we’ve heard a lot in the past year. And it’s a word we need to hear even more this year.
In the midst of a turbulent economy, people are being shaken to the very core. For many of us, the loss of a job is not just the loss of an income, but the loss of self and purpose. And the loss of a home – is anything scarier than that?
Has the world ever needed the church more? Has the message of Jesus that God is able to care for every need ever been more than relevant than today?
We United Methodists are in the hope business, you know. That’s right. Locally and globally, we give hope. To children who are victims of malaria-infected mosquitoes; to students who need a little help to make their college costs; to the young mother who needs daycare for her child and English lessons so she can get a better paying job. The list goes on and on, far too many to list here.
We have been in the hope business a long time. Through economic upturns and down turns, through floods and fires and famine, through war and peace, we have been there. The people of The United Methodist Church. The people of hope.
So don’t give up now. Don’t get scared, don’t run from the challenge. Keep the hope coming. Let this be hope’s finest hour.
--Rev. Dr. Ken Sloane, Director of Communications Ministry, United Methodist Communications
It’s a word we’ve heard a lot in the past year. And it’s a word we need to hear even more this year.
In the midst of a turbulent economy, people are being shaken to the very core. For many of us, the loss of a job is not just the loss of an income, but the loss of self and purpose. And the loss of a home – is anything scarier than that?
Has the world ever needed the church more? Has the message of Jesus that God is able to care for every need ever been more than relevant than today?
We United Methodists are in the hope business, you know. That’s right. Locally and globally, we give hope. To children who are victims of malaria-infected mosquitoes; to students who need a little help to make their college costs; to the young mother who needs daycare for her child and English lessons so she can get a better paying job. The list goes on and on, far too many to list here.
We have been in the hope business a long time. Through economic upturns and down turns, through floods and fires and famine, through war and peace, we have been there. The people of The United Methodist Church. The people of hope.
So don’t give up now. Don’t get scared, don’t run from the challenge. Keep the hope coming. Let this be hope’s finest hour.
--Rev. Dr. Ken Sloane, Director of Communications Ministry, United Methodist Communications
Thursday, February 5, 2009
I'll sacrifice my asparagus...
What does giving mean to you? Does it mean obligingly putting money in the offering plate each Sunday? Does it mean reluctantly giving a dollar to the homeless man? Does it mean volunteering to help on a mission trip? Does it mean giving your coat to the woman shivering on the street?
The other day, I was watching a movie with my daughter. In this movie, two very poor sisters just experienced devastation to their family business and home. All they had was their clothes, blankets, jam and bread. They go in search of more and as they are, the pass an elderly lady who looked hungry and tired. Even though the sisters were just as hungry, one of them offered up her sandwich of bread and jam to the elderly lady.
Sure, it was just a movie, but that, to me, is a type of giving. Jesus teaches us that our love for those in need shows our identity as children of the generous Creator (1 John 3:16-18). The elderly lady was in need and the sister reached out to her and sacrificed her lunch so that the woman could be nourished. Sacrificial giving nourishes our Christian soul and spirit. It brings us closer to God and shows our devotion and gratitude to God's will.
I discussed the movie with my daughter afterwards and explained how their giving is how we strive to be. Of course, then she offered to “sacrifice” her asparagus for her sister’s nourishment. I don’t think so my child!
~ Tracy Wood, Web Coordinator, Strategic Marketing and Research Team, United Methodist Communications. A "not so new" mom of 2 adorable and well nourished girls.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
A Missionary of note
Elizabeth Thiombiano
Assigned to the EMANA Project (Methodist Extention to Andean Youth) in Iquique, Chile, Ms. Elizabeth Yingling Thiombiano is a missionary through the Mission Intern Program with the Board of Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church. (For information on the Mission Intern Program see end of bio).
Working with Becky Harrell, also a GBGM missionary, Beth assists with ‘Serenity', an after-school tutoring program for children whose parents are absent due to drug abuse or immigration issues. She travels with a mobile eyeglass clinic sponsored by EMANA as the clinic visits various pueblos to perform check-ups. Beth also assists with English classes in three Methodist schools as well as working with the Family and Violence Project, a program that provides weekly prevention workshops and works closely with ‘illegal’ immigrants from Peru.
A VIM trip to Jamaica as a young teenager and a Global Justice Volunteer for three months while in college deepened Beth’s understanding of her call to mission. ”It was through these two experiences that I learned the importance of building relationships and walking in solidarity. I hope through this experience I will be able to build relationships, learn from the people I’m working with and walk with them while working towards social justice.”
Beth was born in Westminster, Maryland. She received a diploma in General Studies from Carroll Community College and earned her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisburg, VA. She worked for Commonwealth Center for Children and Adolescents and Target Community and Educational Services, Inc.
Westminster United Methodist Church in Westminster, MD in the Baltimore-Washington Annual Conference is Beth’s home church.
(The Mission Intern Program is a three-year leadership development and mission service opportunity for young adults between the ages of 20 and 30 to be actively involved in mission service and social justice in both an international and a domestic context. The program encourages young adults to live with and learn from communities that struggle with injustice. Mission Interns have worked as community developers, educators, advocates, and grass-roots organizers, and their unique experiences provide vision for new opportunities and ministries within the church. The program offers an opportunity for Mission Interns to serve half of their time abroad, and their remaining time in a placement site in their home country).
Project websites: http://www.emana.org/ or www.7villages.com/chilemissionumc
Make an online donation to: Elizabeth Thiombiano #13105Z
Taken from the GBGM website.
Assigned to the EMANA Project (Methodist Extention to Andean Youth) in Iquique, Chile, Ms. Elizabeth Yingling Thiombiano is a missionary through the Mission Intern Program with the Board of Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church. (For information on the Mission Intern Program see end of bio).
Working with Becky Harrell, also a GBGM missionary, Beth assists with ‘Serenity', an after-school tutoring program for children whose parents are absent due to drug abuse or immigration issues. She travels with a mobile eyeglass clinic sponsored by EMANA as the clinic visits various pueblos to perform check-ups. Beth also assists with English classes in three Methodist schools as well as working with the Family and Violence Project, a program that provides weekly prevention workshops and works closely with ‘illegal’ immigrants from Peru.
A VIM trip to Jamaica as a young teenager and a Global Justice Volunteer for three months while in college deepened Beth’s understanding of her call to mission. ”It was through these two experiences that I learned the importance of building relationships and walking in solidarity. I hope through this experience I will be able to build relationships, learn from the people I’m working with and walk with them while working towards social justice.”
Beth was born in Westminster, Maryland. She received a diploma in General Studies from Carroll Community College and earned her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisburg, VA. She worked for Commonwealth Center for Children and Adolescents and Target Community and Educational Services, Inc.
Westminster United Methodist Church in Westminster, MD in the Baltimore-Washington Annual Conference is Beth’s home church.
(The Mission Intern Program is a three-year leadership development and mission service opportunity for young adults between the ages of 20 and 30 to be actively involved in mission service and social justice in both an international and a domestic context. The program encourages young adults to live with and learn from communities that struggle with injustice. Mission Interns have worked as community developers, educators, advocates, and grass-roots organizers, and their unique experiences provide vision for new opportunities and ministries within the church. The program offers an opportunity for Mission Interns to serve half of their time abroad, and their remaining time in a placement site in their home country).
Project websites: http://www.emana.org/ or www.7villages.com/chilemissionumc
Make an online donation to: Elizabeth Thiombiano #13105Z
Taken from the GBGM website.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Pay it Forward
When I was a child, my mother told me, “I hope you have a kid just like you when you grow up!” I always viewed that as a compliment since I was an angelic kid.
Ok, even I can’t type that without snickering.
While I wasn’t quite angelic per se, I was essentially a good kid. I stayed on the Honor Roll, was active in church and took dance lessons. Sure, I did the normal rebellion antics, which is what spurred my mother’s comment I’m sure.
Nevertheless, if there was one thing I was – it was giving. Each Sunday, I made sure I had at least a quarter to put into the offering plate. That may not sound like much, but when your allowance for the week was a dollar, 25-cents of that was a big deal. It was something that my father instilled in me. Always give back and be generous.
I’ve taken that instilled principle with me into adulthood. I’m still a very giving person – I’ll willing give away my only dollar if you need it because hey, there may come a time when I’m going to need your only dollar. Some may call that “Paying it Forward” but I like to think of it as giving to a friend when they need it. If I can provide or help out, I’m all for it.
When it came to Human Relations Day, one of the six churchwide Special Sundays, I took out the leaflet envelope from my church bulletin, dug into my purse and deposited some money – and gave each of my daughters a quarter to put in the offering plate. They may only be 5 and 1 years old, but I want to instill the essence of giving in them early.
Would you give someone your only dollar if they needed it?
Did your church celebrate Human Relations Day, which strengthens outreach to communities in the U.S. and Puerto Rico and encourages social justice and work with at-risk youth? Did you know that you can give online to Human Relations Day – or any of the Special Sundays – and still credit your local church with your gift? It’s true. You can donate at our e-give site at any time.
No matter the amount, your gifts to our Church truly make a difference in the lives of so many. It is my prayer that more people would pay it forward.
--Tracy Wood, Web Coordinator, Strategic Marketing & Research Team, United Methodist Communications. Full time web geek, part time comedian. :-)
Ok, even I can’t type that without snickering.
While I wasn’t quite angelic per se, I was essentially a good kid. I stayed on the Honor Roll, was active in church and took dance lessons. Sure, I did the normal rebellion antics, which is what spurred my mother’s comment I’m sure.
Nevertheless, if there was one thing I was – it was giving. Each Sunday, I made sure I had at least a quarter to put into the offering plate. That may not sound like much, but when your allowance for the week was a dollar, 25-cents of that was a big deal. It was something that my father instilled in me. Always give back and be generous.
I’ve taken that instilled principle with me into adulthood. I’m still a very giving person – I’ll willing give away my only dollar if you need it because hey, there may come a time when I’m going to need your only dollar. Some may call that “Paying it Forward” but I like to think of it as giving to a friend when they need it. If I can provide or help out, I’m all for it.
When it came to Human Relations Day, one of the six churchwide Special Sundays, I took out the leaflet envelope from my church bulletin, dug into my purse and deposited some money – and gave each of my daughters a quarter to put in the offering plate. They may only be 5 and 1 years old, but I want to instill the essence of giving in them early.
Would you give someone your only dollar if they needed it?
Did your church celebrate Human Relations Day, which strengthens outreach to communities in the U.S. and Puerto Rico and encourages social justice and work with at-risk youth? Did you know that you can give online to Human Relations Day – or any of the Special Sundays – and still credit your local church with your gift? It’s true. You can donate at our e-give site at any time.
No matter the amount, your gifts to our Church truly make a difference in the lives of so many. It is my prayer that more people would pay it forward.
--Tracy Wood, Web Coordinator, Strategic Marketing & Research Team, United Methodist Communications. Full time web geek, part time comedian. :-)
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Do you have $2?
I spoke with this evening with the man who was my pastor during my childhood and teen years. He served one of those wonderful 18 year appointments at my home church on Long Island, NY. His name is Clayton Miller, or Pastor Miller, but we all called him “PM.” He watched me grow up, and though he’s retired now, we still talk on the phone about once a week.
One of our favorite stories to tell happened when I was in High School in the early 70s. I wore my hair long in the front, so it hung down over one eye. I noticed one day, though, that the eye that was covered all the time was getting “lazy” and I told PM about it. He said “Why don’t you let me cut your hair?” I trusted him, so I got in the chair and he cut my hair. He gave me a great haircut, no hair in my eyes, and when I went to school I got all kinds of compliments.
The next time I saw him, I thanked him. “This haircut has been so great, I can’t thank you enough. If I had a two million dollars I would give you a million.”
Without missing a beat, PM said to me, “Do you have two dollars?”
“Yeah” I answered.
“Then I’ll take one.”
He went on to use that story many times as an example of how we are often ready to give what we don’t have, but more hesitant to share what we do have. Since I’ve gone into the ministry, I’ve used this as an example as well. We all need to be reminded that God doesn’t expect from us something we don’t have. God does expect that we will be faithful with what we do have.
You may be wondering if my pastor really took the dollar from me. He certainly did. It was well worth it for the lesson I learned.
--Rev. Dr. Ken Sloane, Director, Communications Ministry, United Methodist Communications
One of our favorite stories to tell happened when I was in High School in the early 70s. I wore my hair long in the front, so it hung down over one eye. I noticed one day, though, that the eye that was covered all the time was getting “lazy” and I told PM about it. He said “Why don’t you let me cut your hair?” I trusted him, so I got in the chair and he cut my hair. He gave me a great haircut, no hair in my eyes, and when I went to school I got all kinds of compliments.
The next time I saw him, I thanked him. “This haircut has been so great, I can’t thank you enough. If I had a two million dollars I would give you a million.”
Without missing a beat, PM said to me, “Do you have two dollars?”
“Yeah” I answered.
“Then I’ll take one.”
He went on to use that story many times as an example of how we are often ready to give what we don’t have, but more hesitant to share what we do have. Since I’ve gone into the ministry, I’ve used this as an example as well. We all need to be reminded that God doesn’t expect from us something we don’t have. God does expect that we will be faithful with what we do have.
You may be wondering if my pastor really took the dollar from me. He certainly did. It was well worth it for the lesson I learned.
--Rev. Dr. Ken Sloane, Director, Communications Ministry, United Methodist Communications
Thursday, January 8, 2009
"You Don't Know Me"
In an effort to be more mellow and in touch with feelings, I was listening to The Best of Ray Charles and one song popped out at me. While I understand it’s supposed to be a love ballad, I couldn’t help but hear the lyrics, “you don’t know me,” and thinking, that’s right, I may not know you, but I want to help you.
This past Christmas, many times I put money in the bucket for the Salvation Army. I don’t know the recipients, but I still want to help.
I may never meet a World Communion Scholar. Sure, I could say, “I don’t know you” and therefore not give. However, my heart says even though you don’t know them, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t give.It is my hope that in 2009, even though “you don’t know me,” you will still give to worthy causes that truly make a difference in people’s lives – such as the Special Sundays, The Advance, V-Day.org or Heifer International.
This past Christmas, many times I put money in the bucket for the Salvation Army. I don’t know the recipients, but I still want to help.
I may never meet a World Communion Scholar. Sure, I could say, “I don’t know you” and therefore not give. However, my heart says even though you don’t know them, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t give.It is my hope that in 2009, even though “you don’t know me,” you will still give to worthy causes that truly make a difference in people’s lives – such as the Special Sundays, The Advance, V-Day.org or Heifer International.
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