Designated Ministry: Oblation—July 6, 2008

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

For stories about what’s happening in Apostle Ron Harmon’s East Central USA Mission Field, read the July Herald “Sharing in the Field” section.

A. Disciples’ Generous Response Story: World

Kentucky – Indiana USA Mission Center—Delight in God

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, Delight in God, takes us to the Kentucky – Indiana Mission Center. Just over five years ago, members of the mission center and leaders from local youth-serving organizations met to see if at – risk children, ages 8 – 12, could benefit from a camping experience. Glenn Wood Hills Camp and Retreat Center became home to the Community Youth Camp, where campers could take time to delight in God. The first few years the growth in the number of campers outpaced the community awareness and necessary funding in southern Indiana Perry and Spencer counties. In 2006 work started on formalizing the organization and making it part of the mission center’s ministry. The camp also reached the point of needing to make a decision. Many of the campers wanted to continue attending, but they were past the camp’s age limit. In 2007, moving out in faith, two weeks of camp were offered, one for children 8 – 12 and one for youth ages 13-15. Nearly 75 campers attended the two camps (an increase from 50 the year before).

Thanks to your contributions to Oblation, a Tangible Love Grant will help the Community Youth Camps move into the future on a more solid foundation, giving the volunteer board of directors added time to raise the support needed to expand. The children and youth of Perry and Spencer counties will have a camping experience that helps develop their coping skills, strengthens their self-esteem, and helps to make the peace of Jesus Christ more of a reality in our world. Thank you for responding faithfully by sharing so very generously.—Mike Hoffman, president, Kentucky – Indiana USA Mission Center

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 Matthew 11: 29 (NRSV) we read: Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

Sharing our Mission Tithes equally between local and world ministries changes our lives and those who receive the blessings from it. Let us share in the prayer of blessing for our offering.