Designated Ministry: Field Ministers/Ministry—August 31, 2008

Suggested worship service for this day.
PowerPoint presentation to support the story.

For stories about what’s happening in Apostle Susan Skoor’s Pacific Mission Field,
read the August Herald “Sharing in the Field” section.

A. Disciples’ Generous Response Story: World

Greater Pacific Northwest USA Mission Center—Here I Am, Lord

Each Sunday we are invited to “share equally” with Mission Tithes for local and world ministries. These stories are provided to keep us in touch with how your contributions to Mission Tithes are spreading the peace of Jesus Christ.

This story, Here I Am, Lord, takes us to the Greater Pacific Northwest USA Mission Center.  You can hear it in his voice, see it in his eyes. Brad Shumate, pastor of the Portland, Oregon Community of Christ, is passionate about his advocacy about global warming and the effects on God’s creation.  Brad, a full-time field minister, works tirelessly for peace and justice, whether he is providing ministry in the Portland congregation or supporting ministers who are active in ecumenical circles. His involvement includes the Oregon Interfaith Power and Light project, which helps congregations “walk their talk” by improving their stewardship of energy and God’s creation. Congregations take action by doing energy efficiency retrofits, signing up for green power, educating their members, and even installing solar electrical systems.

At a recent press conference on global warming, Brad related, “We affirm God’s counsel that the earth shudders in distress because its living systems are becoming exhausted from carrying the burden of human greed and conflict. Global warming will have the greatest impact on those in God’s world who are most vulnerable—our poor, our children, our elderly, and those in poor health. People of faith are called to care for the “least among us.” We cannot stand idly by knowing what is at stake for God’s people and creation.” Brad is fervent about his ministry. “Here I am, Lord!” is his response. Your contributions to World Ministries Mission Tithes provide field ministers and their ministry around the globe. Thank you for responding faithfully by sharing so very generously.
—Susan Skoor, apostle, Pacific Mission Field

B. Disciples’ Generous Response Story: Local

What is happening to you or in your congregation as a result of giving to local ministries through Mission Tithes? Share those experiences as part of your congregation’s Disciples’ Generous Response.

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C. Blessing on Our Offering

From Psalm 105:1 – 5 (NRSV) we read: "O give thanks to the Lord, call on his name, make known his deeds among the peoples. Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wonderful works. Glory in his holy name; let the heats of those who seek the Lord rejoice. Seek the Lord and his strength; seek this presence continually."

Sharing our Mission Tithes equally between local and world ministries is part of sharing the peace of Jesus Christ. Let us share in the prayer of blessing for our offering.