A Moment for Mission
Do not neglect to do good and share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God."
– Hebrews 13: 16
Given the recent tragedies in our nation, we can no longer avoid the fear and tensions that divide us along so many lines, including that of race. In the midst of all the loud voices that call our attention, we, as the church, must remember that our call is to do justice, to love mercy and to humbly walk with God. One of the ways we do justice together as The United Methodist Church is through continuing a 150-year legacy of supporting our black colleges. Joseph L. Jones, a former Black College Fund ambassador and graduate of two of the 11 Historically Black Colleges and Universities supported by the fund, believes that "an educated populace will one day eliminate discrimination, ignorance and intolerance, which ultimately will create a world where social justice is the standard."
The Black College Fund is supported through the gifts of our congregations' apportionment giving. The Black College Fund began in 1972 and is used for capital projects, scholarships and faculty development. All of these serve to ensure that every student is able have equal access to a high quality education that allows them to continue in the strong legacy of graduates who impact the world through their faith and service. Many graduates leave as pastors, social workers, doctors and lawyers ready to meet the world in ways that will make it a better place.
Offertory Prayer
Gracious God, Thank you for all you have given us and the ways you provide. Let us remember these gifts and our call to do good and share what we have. Grant that we act in ways that demonstrate your love in all we do and how we share. Amen.
From Discipleship Ministries: Fifteenth Sunday After Pentecost - Gracious God, you are the fountain of living water! You alone relieve the thirst in our lives and bring the peace that passes understanding. Soften our hearts and give us an humble spirit in our daily work and relationships. Help us to show others the generosity and kindness of Jesus, simply because it is pleasing in your sight. Let our gifts and offerings serve your purposes in the world, bringing refreshment to a world thirsting for peace and justice. We ask this in the name of Christ, our Lord. Amen. (Luke 14:1, 7-14)
Newsletter Nugget
The United Methodist Church supports 11 Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the United States. While the majority of the students in these schools are black, there are growing numbers of students from many different ethnic backgrounds. This celebration of diversity is a testimony to the culture of hospitality and inclusion on these campuses that is a refreshing way forward in times where race can be a divisive subject.
The students in these schools are leading in so many other ways as well. There is a strong legacy and history of graduates for faith and service. Many go on to become pastors and lay leaders in local congregations. Others work as doctors or nurses in the health care field, many serving with populations on the margins. Some go on to work as social workers and lawyers, working directly in the community.
When we give to the Black College Fund with our apportionments, we are supporting a strong 150-year legacy of creating opportunities for equal access to education for all people.