Dear Leaders,
Thank you for your dedication to making United Methodist Student Day a success! This first email is an opportunity to introduce the celebration to your congregation or group. The goal is to share the purpose behind this Special Sunday and invite everyone to participate.
UM Student Day Sunday is a way to offer a practical expression of support, providing both financial assistance and spiritual encouragement. Through scholarship funding, we demonstrate the church's commitment to developing principled leaders for a worldwide community. Traditionally observed on the last Sunday of November, this Special Sunday was moved to May by the 2024 General Conference to better align with graduation celebrations. We encourage you to celebrate your students on any Sunday in May.
The emails and announcements you’ll deliver over the next few weeks will help build excitement and awareness within your church.
Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Learn about UM scholarships. Visit gbhem.org/scholarships to understand how we support our United Methodist students and the impact this has on our next generation.
- Share personally. Talk about why getting an education matters to you and share a story that resonates or utilize the impact articles for stories that have touched communities around the world.
- Create anticipation. Mention that United Methodist Student Day 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 your students and their higher education goals during group prayers or worship.
Thank you for inspiring your congregation to support students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees. Together, we can create opportunities for students to grow, learn, and serve as the next generation of leaders for both the church and the world.
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: Get Ready for United Methodist Student Day!
Subject Line: Empower Students to Pursue Their Calling
Pretext: Together, we can support students in their faith journey and education.
Email Body:
Dear [Church Family/Small Group],
United Methodist Student Day is coming up, and I couldn’t be more excited to share this meaningful celebration with you. This Special Sunday reminds us how our generosity can help students pursue their dreams of education and service.
The offerings we collect on this day directly fund scholarships and grants for students within The United Methodist Church. These young people are our future pastors, leaders, and change-makers, and they need our support.
Mark your calendars for [date] and join us in making a difference in their lives. Together, we can inspire and equip the next generation to live out their calling.
Blessings,
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Role]
[Church Name]