Offertory Prayers and Invitation for August 2016

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

Invitation to the Offering

The offering you made last week empowered ministry within our congregation and in response to the needs of our community. It also helped support the work of ministries beyond the local church that empower the whole church to reach out to those who need to hear the good news of love and redemption. You’ve been a part of the work of Africa University in Old Mutare, Zimbabwe. This year, Africa University celebrated it’s twenty-second gradating class of 841 students. Several of these students were the first in their family to attend college. This year’s graduates will join the more than 5000 alumni of Africa University who come from 28 African nations and who are changing the face of the African continent. This ministry happens thanks to the generous support of United Methodists like you. I invite you once again to give generously as we worship God through the sharing of our gifts, tithes, and offering.

To learn more about the work of Africa University, visit http://www.africau.edu

August 7, 2016 – Twelfth Sunday After Pentecost

Living God, you are the architect of our lives and the builder of the church of Jesus Christ. When you speak, you bring into being that which fulfills your will. By your Word and Spirit, you teach us to be wise about matters we cannot imagine. Thank you for the privilege of contributing to the life and mission of this congregation. Use our tithes and gifts to inspire deeper faith, hope, and love among people in our community. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen. (Hebrews 11:1-16)

August 14, 2016 – Thirteenth Sunday After Pentecost

Shepherd of Israel, you faithfully lead your people throughout the world. We praise you for your tireless acts of salvation, even when we have turned away from your crook. By your grace, O God, nurture and strengthen your flock wherever they gather. Make us bold witnesses of Christ, your Son, whose light and truth reflect your love. We dedicate our offerings and ourselves to your service, for the sake of Jesus Christ, our Good Shepherd. Amen. (Psalm 80)

August 21, 2016 – Fourteenth Sunday After Pentecost

Holy God, we rejoice in your loving kindness! You create us in your image with unique gifts, so that we may love and serve you in our distinctive ways. Thank you for guiding us continually as we seek to follow Christ, your Son. Empower our congregation by your Spirit to show and tell your good news of salvation to our neighbors. Use these offerings to bless all whose lives are touched by the ministries of this church. Amen. (Jeremiah 1:4-10)

August 28, 2016 – Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Gracious God, you are the fountain of living water! You alone relieve the thirst in our lives and bring the peace that passes understanding. Soften our hearts and give us an humble spirit in our daily work and relationships. Help us to show others the generosity and kindness of Jesus, simply because it is pleasing in your sight. Let our gifts and offerings serve your purposes in the world, bringing refreshment to a world thirsting for peace and justice. We ask this in the name of Christ, our Lord. Amen. (Luke 14:1, 7-14)