Moment for Mission
"The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news." — Mark 1: b15, NRSV
In The United Methodist Church, we believe that the home is the center for faith formation. We carry this tradition forward from the very beginnings of Methodism.
This emphasis is no surprise when we look into John Wesley's formative years. Not only was his father an Anglican priest, but his mother also put a strong emphasis on educating her children. This education included Scripture reading. Wesley is known for saying, "I have learned more about Christianity from my mother than from all the theologians in England."
This is not only true for Wesley. Our current research tells us that faith formation begins at home. The faith that is demonstrated by those caring for us at home is the most likely to be carried into adulthood. This is why The United Methodist Church celebrates Christian Home Month. Christian Home Month is generally observed during the month of May, though churches can choose to observe it during any month.
Resources for Christian Home Month are available to us through the diligent work of Discipleship Ministries. Discipleship Ministries is charged with equipping the church as disciples and world changers.
The United Methodist agency offers resources for all age levels and ministry areas. The work of Discipleship Ministries assists the church in sharing the good news with the world. This work is made possible by our generous apportionment giving to the World Service Fund.
Offertory Prayer
Giver of all Good Gifts, we thank you for the gift of families. We pray for families, that they have peace in seasons of struggle. May our prayers and our gifts support families that they become alive by the power of the good news of forgiveness, grace and love. Amen.
From Discipleship Ministries: Second Sunday in Lent - God Almighty, we rejoice in your constant faithfulness! You established your eternal covenant with your people Israel. Through the ministry of your Son Jesus, you welcomed all who trust you into your extended family. Just as with Abraham and Sarah, you gave us a new name in baptism: a beloved child of God. Empower us by your Spirit to live as generous people who share freely. May we tell younger generations of your goodness and serve your purposes in the world. As a covenant people, we dedicate our tithes and offerings through Christ our Lord. Amen. (Genesis 17:1-16)
Newsletter Nugget
The United Methodist Church recognizes that there is urgency in caring for and supporting families.
Christian Home Month was first adopted by General Conference in 1992. In 2004, Christian Home Month was amended and readopted. Family experiences are critical in shaping our faith and determining how we are likely to relate to others. What happens in families has the ability to form individuals throughout life.
In adopting Christian Home Month, we are supporting families in practicing faith together at home. For some, the thought of teaching faith at home can be intimidating. Children can ask difficult questions. Some of us are inexperienced at leading prayers or Bible studies.
Discipleship Ministries provides resources for family prayer, worship and Bible study. The United Methodist agency not only equips congregations and families during Christian Home Month, but also resources the whole church in a variety of ways, all with the goal of making disciples who change the world.
We support the work of Discipleship Ministries through our giving to World Service Fund apportionments.