Offertory Prayers and Invitation for March 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 have supported the work of Justice for Our Neighbors (JFON), a ministry through the General Board of Global Ministries that works in local communities across the U.S. to help immigrants navigate their way to safety and freedom. The young men in the picture are kidnap victims of human trafficking by Mexico’s notorious Cartel de Golfo. They were rescued by United Methodists working with JFON in Austin, Texas. 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. (JFON/GBGM Photo by Alexandre Meneghini).

Learn more about the work of Justice for Our Neighbors by visiting:
http://njfon.org

March 6, 2016 – Fourth Sunday in Lent

Forgiving God, we are grateful that you receive us as beloved children. Like the father in Jesus’ parable of the lost son, you rejoice when we repent and return to you. Thank you for not holding our sins against us. Help us to welcome each person as someone you love. Use our offerings to support ministries that encourage people as they live into new life in Christ. We pray in his precious name. Amen. (Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32)

March 13, 2016 – Fifth Sunday in Lent

Gracious God, we rejoice in your tender care for us when we are in the wilderness of life. When we face difficulties, you miraculously make a way forward. You lead us to the living water of Christ to refresh and sustain us. You nurture us by your Word and Spirit. You fortify our faith, so that we will live to praise you. May our congregation’s outreach ministries be a source of vitality for people in our wider community. We dedicate these gifts in Jesus’ name. Amen. (Isaiah 43:16-21)

March 20, 2016 – Passion/Palm Sunday – Sixth Sunday in Lent

Faithful God, your Son Jesus reveals what it means to be a servant leader who trusts you fully. His steadfast obedience to your will cost him dearly. Yet through his amazing self-sacrifice, you bring healing, hope, and peace. During this week, help us to reflect your great love in Christ. Let our words and actions point to your grace. We present our tithes and offerings through the Prince of Peace. Amen. (Psalm 31:9-16 and Luke 19:28-40)

March 27, 2016 – Easter Day

God of majesty, we are astonished at your miraculous power! You raised Jesus Christ from the dead. You made him the first of a huge multitude to receive your ultimate gift, eternal life. Thank you for fulfilling and even exceeding your promises. Now Christ reigns with you and prays for us. Help us to joyfully tell others your good news of salvation. Receive our tithes, offerings, and gifts for the sake of our risen Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. (1 Corinthians 15:19-26)