Bulletin Statement

WILL YOU SHARE OF YOUR ABUNDANCE?

Today is Oblation Sunday. It is also a Sunday that has been especially designated to call attention to the needs of the hungry of the world through emphasis on the World Hunger Fund. In addition to your designated offerings, all loose change will be processed as World Hunger contributions.

In 1979, in response to World Conference action the previous year, the First Presidency established the World Hunger Fund as a special part of the Oblation Fund. Its purpose was not only to provide funds to alleviate hunger, but also to educate people about hunger issues and advocate on behalf of the hungry. A World Hunger Committee was appointed to review requests and make recommendations to the First Presidency. Since then, nearly $6 million has been contributed to the World Hunger portion of the Oblation Fund through the generous response of the Saints.

The challenge is to maintain this support for the needs of the hungry in the face of the many demands on local and World Church resources. This is why the First Presidency designated Communion Sundays in March and September as times to call particular attention to the needs of the hungry.

When Jesus told the parable of the sheep and the goats in Matthew 25, the question was posed, “Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you?” The answer came back, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” Giving to the World Hunger Fund is a splendid means for the Saints to live the example taught by Jesus.

Wallace B. Smith, chair
World Hunger Committee