Designated Ministry: Field Ministers/Ministry—January 27, 2008

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

For stories about what’s happening in Apostle Stassi Cramm’s Central and Michigan USA Mission Field, read the January Herald “Sharing in the Field” section.

A. Disciples’ Generous Response Story: World

Community of Christ African American Ministries—Called to Proclaim

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, Called to Proclaim, takes us to Apostle Stassi Cramm’s Central and Michigan USA Mission Field. In September 2007, African American Ministries held a retreat in Chicago, Illinois at the Brainerd Community of Christ. There were over 60 participants from several congregations and cities. From Doctrine and Covenants Section 163:2a we learned that, “Jesus Christ, the embodiment of God’s shalom, invites all people to come and receive divine peace in the midst of the difficult questions and struggles of life. Follow Christ in the way that leads to God’s peace and discover the blessings of all of the dimensions of salvation.”

At one point, an 18-year-old girl who participated offered her testimony: “I can see a change in me because of the love and support of my new mom and sister, who God placed in my life through the church family who took me in.” When asked about baptism, she responded, “After more reading and prayer, I have come to an understanding of what baptism symbolizes for my life now and I have decided that I am ready to give my life completely to God who has given it to me. I feel that God sent his angels to protect me; I want to wake up in the morning and know that God is by my side”. She is a “vibrant witness” as she invites others and proudly proclaims her church as her family. African American Ministries is an example of an urban pathway for youth at risk to come, be changed, and discover the gospel anew. Your contributions to World Ministries Mission Tithes provide for field ministry and ministers such as those who work in African American Ministries. Thank you for responding faithfully by sharing so very generously.—Derrick J. Williams, specialist, African American Ministries
 

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.

1.

2.

3.
 

C. Blessing on Our Offering

From Doctrine and Covenants 163:2b we read:

Generously share the invitation, ministries, and sacraments through which people can encounter the Living Christ who heals and reconciles through redemptive relationships in sacred community. The restoring of persons to healthy or righteous relationships with God, others, themselves, and the earth is at the heart of the purpose of your journey as a people of faith.

Sharing our Mission Tithes equally between local and world ministries brings joy into our lives. Let us share in the prayer of blessing for our offering.