Generosity in Adversity

Presbyterian Mission Agency promotes four themed mission fundraising efforts throughout the church year called the Special Offerings. They are: the Christmas Joy Offering during Advent, the One Great Hour of Sharing during Lent, the Pentecost Offering on Pentecost, and the Peace and Global Witness offering during September: https://specialofferings.pcusa.org. These are missional opportunities through PC(USA), but they are more than just requests for funds. These are opportunities for learning, faith, and growth. 

The way each of these offerings work is a congregation collects donations for the offering, a portion stays with the congregation, a portion says with the mid level councils (Presbytery, Synod), and the rest goes to the organizations supported by the specific theme of the donation. For One Great Hour of Sharing, the supported missions are: providing food to the hungry, providing relief for those facing disasters, and providing resources to help communities struggling to shake off the bonds of oppression and become self-sustaining. I have linked the title of each offering to their webpage above, so feel free to explore and learn about these opportunities.

In March when the whole world became still for a time, I forgot to promote the One Great Hour of Sharing, despite the fact that some of the after-school program children had dutifully filled and returned their fish. I didn't know how I could ask anything more of all of you. I should have trusted more. The SUPC congregation has a heart for mission and for helping people who are in need. Throughout September, I will be using the resources for spiritual development shared in conjunction with the Peace and Global Witness offering materials. I hope you find inspiration and encouragement for your own justice efforts as we learn about Peace witness around the globe.

I love you all
Stay Safe and Healthy
Wash Your Hands
Peace be with you
~Rev. Andrea Joy Holroyd