Designated Ministry: World Ministries Mission Tithes
Contribution Update—January 11, 2009

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The following is an update on World Ministries Mission Tithes contributions. For more information and updates on how your contributions to World Ministries Mission Tithes are spreading the peace of Jesus Christ, read the January Herald “Sharing Our Witness and Resources” section. For generosity stories from Apostle Stassi Cramm’s Central and Michigan USA Mission Field, read the January Herald “Sharing in the Field.”

A. World Ministries Mission Tithes Update

Central USA Mission Center—Shine!

The church received an estimated $815,000 in World Ministries Mission Tithes in November 2008, $43,000 less than we needed to balance the budget. Five months into the fiscal year, we remain 6 percent behind the goal of $10.5 million for the year. If present giving trends continue, we will receive less than $10 million.

We know that the global financial downturn concerns everyone, and we have already acted to reduce expenses, insuring that your tithing contributions are directed to essential functions and ministries. We are deeply grateful for your continued generosity, and take joy in highlighting the following ministries around the world made possible by your giving.

• Outreach ministries in Gladwin, Michigan, that include after–school programs for latchkey kids and adult caregiver respite day care
• Spreading Christ’s peace through a full–time missionary coordinator in Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Full–time ministry providing hope in Detroit’s urban core through the church plant, Detroit Hope

Thank you for responding faithfully by sharing so very generously.

B. Congregational Ministries Mission Tithes Update: Local

The congregational financial officer should give an update about the congregation’s budget at this time. Highlight positive things that have happened in addition to items that need attention.

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C. Blessing on Our Offering

From Mark 1:9 – 11 (NRSV) we read: In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.”

Sharing our Mission Tithes equally between local and world ministries changes our lives and those who receive the blessings from it. Let us share in the prayer of blessing for our offering.