August 4, 2008

Congregations, individuals respond to Year of Jubilee

Filed Under: Christian Giving, donation, gift, Year of Jubilee

More than $600,000 has been raised for the synod's special "Year of Jubilee" offering since it was launched during the district conventions in June. Authorized by the 2007 synod convention, the thank offering is designed to reduce the synod’s $22.4 million debt—and free up as much as $2.7 million each year for other ministry.

"Each and every gift God's people give to the work of his church is a miracle," says Rev. Dave Liggett, administrator of WELS Ministry of Christian Giving (MCG). "Let's remember one another in our prayers as we move forward with this special offering."

While the offering will be conducted between now and the 2009 synod convention next July, the main thrust will be in November and December. MCG has developed a series of Bible studies, worship resources, and a DVD for use during those two months based upon the Old Testament Year of Jubilee which, foreshadowed a Savior, Jesus, who frees us from the debt of sin.

Congregations are encouraged to begin promoting the offering now. A complete set of instructions and promotional materials were mailed to every congregation and given to every delegate to the district conventions. If your church has not yet received them, contact the Ministry of Christian Giving at 800-827-5482 or e-mail mcg@sab.wels.net Printable monthly worship folder inserts have been developed for use between now and July 2009.

Individual members moved to respond to the offering can do so by placing a gift in the offering plate at worship, making checks payable to the congregation. Gifts can also be given online at www.wels.net/donate