Designated Ministry: World Hunger—September 6, 2009

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A. Disciples’ Generous Response Story: World

Community of Christ—All Are Made by 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, All Are Made by God, takes us to the Community of Christ throughout the world, including Apostle Carlos Enrique Mejia’s Central and South America Mission Field. From June 2009, the World Hunger Fund had provided almost $11 million (US) in grants. Many are aware the hunger ministries of the church have been growing over the years. Yet some are surprised, perhaps, at the degree of success achieved.

Although no one knew what to expect when the World Hunger Committee was authorized in 1978, almost immediately contributions began to accumulate. Since then, funds continue to multiply and the amount disbursed to various hunger programs and organizations now exceeds $500,000 (US) each year. Nearly eleven million dollars for hunger–related ministries represents a remarkable response for the Community of Christ, including countries in the Central and South America Mission Field such as Guatemala, Honduras, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Bolivia, Colombia, Peru, and Venezuela. I am pleased to be part of such a dedicated and committed body – a people who, in a desperately needy world, are seeking to become agents of reconciliation and healing of the spirit, reflecting that all are made by God. Thank you for responding faithfully by giving so very generously to World Hunger.—Wallace B. Smith, chair, World Hunger Committee

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 Proverbs 22:1–2 (NRSV) we read: A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold.

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.