Offertory  | |
|
Tips for Preparing an Effective Offertory
The word “Offertory” in the suggested worship service outlines has been
replaced by the phrase “Disciples’ Generous Response,” reflecting the continuing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.
Available Resources
Survey of Stewardship Scriptures (see
www.CofChrist.org/generosity/scriptures.asp
www.CofChrist.org/generosity/list.asp and
www.CofChrist.org/bishop
Local (from congregation/mission center leadership)and World
(see
www.CofChrist.org/offertory/ ) stories about how Mission Tithes Impact
Lives
Local (from your CFO)and World (see
www.CofChrist.org/worldministries/update/) contribution updates
Offering envelopes (with printed messages) from your CFO
Becoming a Generous Disciple: Six Principles to Live By from Herald
House
Tracts—A Disciple’s Generous Response, Tithing, World Mission Tithes
from Herald House
My Tithing Plan (see
www.CofChrist.org/generosity/mytithingplan for a download copy)
or see your CFO for a copy.)
Watch for Herald articles with the Mission Tithes Impact Lives logo
|
