Worship  | |
|
disciple's generous response
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worship service has been replaced by the phrase “Disciples’ Generous Response,”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
|