Offertory Prayers for October 2009

October 4, 2009 -- Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Heavenly Father, we often hear that children are a gift from God. Knowing that each person is created with unique fingerprints and DNA, we are reminded that we, too, are your gift to others. You have given us this gift of life and our many possessions. During these offertory moments, we joyfully and faithfully return this money that ultimately belongs to you. In the name of your son, Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen. (Mark 10:13-16)

October 11, 2009 -- Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Almighty God, you continue to bless our lives in many intrinsic and intangible ways. When our financial gifts are used to support mission and ministry, we see other people blessed in very tangible ways. Our desire is to place you first in our financial decision-making. May this offering be a time when we do place you first and when we are grateful for the opportunity to support mission and ministry in your name. We pray in the name of the One through whom all things are possible. Amen. (Mark 10:17-31)

October 18, 2009 -- Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost
God of Grace and Mercy, you call us to be servants in your Son's holy name. While popular culture often diminishes self-sacrifice, we know that being a servant leader is a worthwhile calling. Help us to focus on the Christian practice of hospitality by freely giving to others in your name. Accept this offering as a profound gesture of our desire to serve you today and always. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen. (Mark 10:35-45)

October 25, 2009 -- Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost
Redeeming Lord, we continually seek your comfortable refuge. You deliver us from our unfounded fears and provide us with miraculous examples of your love. In response, we offer these gifts. We pray that these funds will provide an outreach that warms people with your resplendent love. As a church community, we exalt and praise your holy name. Amen. (Psalm 34:1-8, 19-22)

Written by David S. Bell, former Director of Stewardship with GBOD. He currently serves as Vice-President of Stewardship with the United Methodist Foundation of Michigan. You may contact him by visiting www.DavidSBell.org.

Copyright 2009 David S. Bell. Any local church, regardless of denominational affiliation, or any United Methodist organization may reprint any or all of these prayers provided that the author is cited.

Posted 9-16-09