June 24 – Interdenominational Cooperation Fund
"As we work together with him, we urge you also not to accept the grace of God in vain." – 2 Corinthians 6:1, NRSV
Moment for Mission
It makes sense that a priority of The United Methodist Church is the Interdenominational Cooperation Fund, one of our seven churchwide apportionments. This may seem counterintuitive when considering the resources required for United Methodist work in local congregations, communities and globally. However, this fund exemplifies a spirit of unity and demonstrates Christ's love for and with all who call themselves "Christian."
The fund provides United Methodist support of the basic budgets of organizations that relate to the ecumenical responsibilities of our Council of Bishops.
Methodism's founder John Wesley supported this spirit. "Though we cannot think alike," he asked, "may we not love alike? May we not be of one heart, though we are not of one opinion?" Wesley regarded many denominational differences as small matters that could be laid aside for the sake of encouraging one another in love and good works.
The Interdenominational Cooperation Fund connects us with Christians of other denominations that are centered in Christ and working to make disciples. Through the fund, we promote human rights, peace and justice around the world. By working with other Christians, we amplify our voices and expand our efforts to support Christians in the world who are marginalized and persecuted. With our generous gifts to the Interdenominational Cooperation Fund, we demonstrate what it means to be part of God's kingdom.
Offertory Prayer
God of grace and love, engage us in a spirit of unity that we may respond to the world with grace and love on behalf of those who suffer and for those who are persecuted in your name. Let love inspire us to give generously to further demonstrate your love as a united people of God. Amen.
From Discipleship Ministries: Fifth Sunday After Pentecost/in Kingdomtide –Holy God of power and might, there are struggles and battles all around us; there is need and pain and struggle; and too often, we feel powerless and inadequate to do anything. Yet, like David, who in faith went to meet Goliath, we have been provided all we need to serve you in the world. May the offering we make at your altar this morning reflect our understanding that we have all we need to live and serve as you have called us. In your holy name, we pray.Amen. (1 Samuel 17: 32-49)
Newsletter Nugget
One of seven apportionments to which The United Methodist Church contributes is the Interdenominational Cooperation Fund. This fund connects United Methodists with other Christ-centered faith communions in a spirit of unity and love to benefit the world. The ecumenical bodies to which we contribute include the World Council of Churches, the National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA, the World Methodist Council, the Pan-Methodist Commission and Churches Uniting in Christ. Together, we work together to promote human rights, peace and justice.
The Interdenominational Cooperation Fund continues to be vitally important, especially in a culture often seems to thrive on fear, hate and blame causing some racial and ethnic minorities to be marginalized and even displaced. For United Methodists, advocating for human rights means being a conscience, reminding us that all people are created in God's image and that God's vision for the created world involves justice and peace. Please give generously.