Disciple's Generous Response

In Worship Resources,  the word “Offertory” in the worship service has been replaced by the phrase “Disciples’ Generous Response,” reflecting the continuing journey to understand more clearly the nature of our response as disciples to God’s grace and love.

An effective offertory

• contains an integrated message with the rest of the worship service reflecting the ministry of Jesus Christ supported by Community of Christ members, friends, and/or affiliates, through contributions to Local and World Mission Tithes;
• helps contributors recognize the sacred purpose of their contributions to Mission Tithes;
• connects persons of all ages to the message, nurturing disciples to be ready and eager to respond;
• is presented by a prepared and engaging worship participant (priesthood or non-priesthood) who believes in and is a contributor; and
• has elements of a joyful celebration of thanksgiving.

Preparation

• Consider the use of visuals, illustrations, or object lessons.
• If you need help, seek assistance from someone with more experience.
• Make the message challenging; everyone can give something regularly (according to means and capacity).
• Talk to the people; make eye contact.
• Focus on the contributor as much or more than the contribution.
• Be honest, objective, and positive.

Reminders

• We receive the offering; we do not take it up.
• It is an offering, not a collection.
• The first Sunday focus is Oblation ministry except in March and September when it is World Hunger.
• Giving is more about grace than formulas and calculations.
• First decide how much to give, then decide which funds to give to. This is illustrated through My Tithing Plan.
• Share equally between Congregation Ministries and World Ministries.
• Every gift is important—to God, to the giver, and to the ministry of the church.
• Funds are the means to ministry. God not only wants our money, God needs our money. But first, God needs our heart.
• Giving is a joy and a privilege.

Helpful Resources

• More on Disciples Generous Response
• Generosity Stories: Local and World stories, including PowerPoint slides, about how Mission Tithes Impact Lives, for use by persons delivering offertories in congregations.
• World Ministries contribution updates
• Scripture Support
• Offering envelopes
• Becoming a Generous Disciple: Six Principles to Live By
• My Tithing Plan