Dear Leaders,
Thank you for taking the time to prepare your congregation for Peace with Justice Sunday! This Special Sunday is a powerful opportunity to remind our churches of their role in God’s work of peace and justice.
The United Methodist Church has long been committed to transforming the world through acts of peace, reconciliation, and justice. On this Special Sunday, we give to support programs that work to reduce conflict, promote fairness, and create lasting change.
Over the next few weeks, we’ll be sending emails to build awareness and excitement. The first email is designed to introduce the celebration, explain its purpose, and encourage people to mark their calendars.
Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Learn about Church and Society. Visit umcjustice.org to understand and learn more about the agency and the work they do to seek justice and pursue peace.
- Plan Early: Use the Special Sundays planning calendar to organize your promotion schedule, adjusting it to suit your congregation’s needs.
- Share personally. Share why advocating for peace and justice matters to you, and tell a story that resonates—whether it’s a personal experience or utilize the impact articles for examples of how these efforts have transformed communities.
- Create anticipation. Mention that Peace with Justice Sunday is coming soon and invite others to mark their calendars. Incorporate the promotional resources to help get the word out (pew cards, posters, infographics, videos and social graphics).
- Pray Together: Lift up those working for peace and justice in your community and around the world. During group prayers or worship, ask for God’s guidance in creating a world where justice prevails, conflicts are resolved, and all people can live in peace.
Your leadership helps bring this message to life—thank you for being part of this important movement!
In Christ,
The Promotion of Giving Team
Below is suggested copy you can edit and use to announce the special Sunday by email, in your newsletters, for classes or in your bulletin.
Suggested Announcement/Email Copy
Email 1: Deliver 5 Weeks Out
Email Title: Mark Your Calendar: Peace with Justice Sunday is Coming!
Subject Line: Let’s Get Ready for Peace with Justice Sunday!
Pretext: Join us in making a difference as we work toward peace with justice in our communities and beyond.
Email Body:
Dear [Church Family/Small Group],
On [Peace with Justice Sunday date], we have a special opportunity to come together as a church and take action for peace and justice in our world.
The United Methodist Church has long been committed to transforming the world through acts of peace, reconciliation, and justice. On this Special Sunday, we give to support programs that work to reduce conflict, promote fairness, and create lasting change.
Half of the gifts given stay right here in our annual conference to support local justice ministries, while the other half funds national and global peace initiatives. Together, we can make a real impact!
Please begin praying about how God might lead you to participate in this important offering. We will share more in the coming weeks.
With hope and gratitude,
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Role]
[Church Name]