Holy Communion joins us in Christian unity. This sacrament invites us to focus on the holiness of communion with God and one another. On World Communion Sunday, United Methodists, in conjunction with other denominations and believers worldwide, participate in communion to recognize our unity in Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. This universal and inclusive connection is the foundation of the special offering for World Communion Sunday.
Your donations support Racial-Ethnic scholarships; these scholarships support students in achieving their educational goals and transforming communities. In 2022, United Methodists gave over $457,000 to provide racial-ethnic students with scholarships, grants, mentoring, and training for leadership development. The needs exceed what we can fund, and your gifts can further growth and success. Learn more about Racial-Ethnic scholarships and grants here.
Fifty percent of the offering provides scholarships for graduate students from the U.S. and other countries. Thirty-five percent supports Racial-Ethnic scholarships for students pursuing ordained ministry (deacon or elder) and includes a mentoring program. Fifteen percent funds Ethnic-In-Service Training Grants for leadership development, recruitment, training, and retention of ethnic United Methodist persons in leadership positions in every level of the church and its ministry.
The United Methodist Church, the world, and our communities are in a time of transition. Now, perhaps more than ever, we are called to extend healing and hope which will guide us to becoming a new creation in Christ. Through our gifts and support, we can invest in talented, qualified students from around the globe to transform the world as witnesses for Christ. Watch and use this 90-second video during your worship service.
Other resources are available to celebrate World Communion Sunday. Click here for everything you need to inspire your congregation to give generously.
If you need more information about World Communion Sunday, click here to find out about our rich and long history of generosity. Our hope is to inspire you to learn more about the work we accomplish together through the ministry we call connectional giving.
Rev. Dr. Dan Gangler