Designated Ministry: Missionary Outreach—January 25, 2009

To view entire suggested worship service for this day, click here.
Click here for a 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.”

A. Disciples’ Generous Response Story: World

Gladwin, Michigan—Growing in Gladwin

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, Growing in Gladwin, takes us to Gladwin, Michigan, in the Heart of Michigan USA Mission Center. The little boy’s violin was almost as big as he was. He stood up, adjusted his sheet music, and looked squarely at the congregation. A hush fell as he lifted the bow and touched it to the strings. Suddenly, sweet chords of music filled the Gladwin sanctuary. Joy surrounded those present like a warm blanket on a snowy evening. There wasn’t a dry eye when he finished, and his smile was for one Gladwin member in particular – his grandmother. He knew he had found a church home filled with love and joy.

There is joy in the Gladwin, Michigan congregation these days. It is infectious. It permeates the members who attend (80 to 120 every Sunday, including the one – third who are children, and the 35 – 45 who are young adults) and draws in seekers each week. The congregation, now in a new building, is already beginning expansion plans. Co–pastor Roger Wiltse puts it this way, “Gladwin takes the church’s name seriously. We are determined to keep the “C” in Christ and community and be the Community of Christ here.” Your contributions to World Ministries Mission Tithes provide ministry to support outreach such as after–school care for latchkey kids and adult caregiver respite day care in Gladwin. Thank you for responding faithfully by sharing so very generously.—Sandra Ferguson, specialist, Funding for Mission, with Roger Wiltse, co-pastor, Gladwin, Michigan

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.

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C. Blessing on Our Offering

From Mark 1:16 – 18 (NRSV) we read: As Jesus passed along the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the sea—for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, “Follow me and I will make you fish for people.” And immediately they left their nets and followed him.

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.