World Ministries Mission Tithes Contribution Update—February 8, 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 February Herald “Sharing Our Witness and Resources” section. For generosity stories about what’s happening in Apostle Bunda Chibwe’s Africa and Haiti Mission Field, read the February Herald “Sharing in the Field” section.

A. World Ministries Mission Tithes Update

The church received an estimated $1,555,000 in World Ministries Mission Tithes in December 2008, $130,000 less than we needed to balance the budget. Halfway through the fiscal year, we are 6 percent behind the goal of $10.5 million for the year. If present giving trends continue, we will receive about $9.8 million.

In light of continuing global financial concerns, we have responded by reducing church expenses to insure that your tithing contributions are directed to essential functions and ministries. We very much appreciate your continued generosity, and take joy in highlighting the following ministries around the world made possible by your giving.

• Missionary outreach at the Mpingu congregation in the Malawi, Africa Mission Center, resulting in 10 baptisms and 20 child blessings
• Full-time ministers in Russia are bringing the hope of the gospel to the people of Siberia
• Estate and financial planning specialists are helping people plan for a better future

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 1:35 – 38 (NRSV, adapted) we read: In the morning, while it was still very dark, [Jesus] got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed. And Simon and his companions hunted for him. When they found him, they said to him, “Everyone is searching for you.” He answered, “Let us go to on to the neighboring towns, so that I may proclaim the message there also; for that is what I came out to do.”

Sharing our offerings equally between local and world ministries changes lives around the world. Let us share in the prayer of blessing on our offering.