Offertory Prayers and Invitation for July 2017

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

Invitation to the Offering

The offering you made last week empowered ministry within our congregation and in response to the needs of our community. It also helped support the work of ministries beyond the local church that reach people who are in desperate need to feel the touch of God’s love and reconciliation. Through our connectional giving, we undergird United Methodist collegiate ministries, the missional presence of The United Methodist Church on college and university campuses around the world. Through a network of chaplaincies, Wesley Foundations, ecumenical ministries, and church-based ministries, The United Methodist Church reaches more than 1,300 campuses around the world. “We are called to share with our campuses the transformational nature of Christ in a way that raises up a new generation of thoughtful, articulate Christians who care about making the world a better place.” This ministry happens thanks to the generous support of United Methodists like you. I invite you once again to give generously as we worship God through the sharing of our gifts, tithes and offerings.

Learn more about collegiate ministries at http://www.gbhem.org/education/collegiate-ministry.

UMNS Photo by Mike DuBose

July 2, 2017 — Fourth Sunday After Pentecost

Faithful God, we worship you with grateful hearts, for you have brought us from death to life! We are awed that you gave your beloved Son Jesus for our salvation. He is the lamb you provided, the perfect offering to take away the sins of the world. Help us to share your kindness every day. By your Spirit, may our church’s ministries bring hope and new life to our neighbors. We dedicate these tithes and offerings in Jesus’ name. Amen. (Genesis 22; Romans 6)

July 9, 2017 — Fifth Sunday After Pentecost

Generous God, we praise you for life itself and the spiritual renewal that you so freely give. Thank you for sending Jesus, who demonstrates what it means to be gentle and humble in heart. Gather our congregation in opportunities to respond to people’s needs with tangible assistance. Fill us with your Spirit so that we are eager to help others, like Rebekah who gave water to a stranger and did not expect a reward. May our offerings be acceptable in your sight. We pray through Christ our Lord. Amen. (Genesis 24)

July 16, 2017 — Sixth Sunday After Pentecost

O God of our salvation, your Word brings joy to our hearts. We find contentment in your presence as we pray and worship you. Enable us to focus on your Holy Spirit who brings life and peace. Inspire our congregation to reach out in creative ways to draw our neighbors into a closer relationship with you. Receive our gifts and offerings for the sake of Christ our Savior. Amen. (Romans 8)

July 23, 2017 — Seventh Sunday After Pentecost

Most Gracious God, you have rescued us from despair and death by the glorious resurrection of Christ your Son. Now you remain with us, empowering us by your Spirit. Turn our hearts in compassion for people who struggle in darkness and danger. We renew our commitment to serve you through our church’s mission outreach. Use our tithes and gifts to kindle the light of the risen Christ in our community and throughout the world. We pray in his name. Amen. (Psalm 86)

July 30, 2017 — Eighth Sunday After Pentecost

Majestic God, we are amazed that you count us among your children. You have adopted us as brothers and sisters of Christ your Son. Open our eyes to see every human being as your beloved child. Send your Spirit to guide us to live as citizens of your heavenly kingdom. Let our church embody a generous way of giving to others in this world, which will one day be conformed to your reign. We ask this for the sake of Jesus, our risen Savior. Amen. (Matthew 13)