Moment for Mission
"Tell the next generation that this is God, our God forever and ever. He will be our guide forever." — Psalm 48:13b-14, NRSV
In a message to the 2018 West Ohio Annual Conference, Bishop Gregory Vaughn Palmer reminded members of their mission "to equip local churches to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world … a world of justice, love and peace filled with people living in the likeness of Jesus Christ."
Reminding them that "these are more than buzzwords to create a nice sign or to use in printed materials," he said these words state the very reason the conference exists.
"As United Methodists," Palmer added, "we believe that we have responsibility, not only to the people within the walls of our individual places of worship, but also to our communities, our sister congregations and people in our nation and world. We are connected one with the other through our prayers, offerings and mission work."
Your congregation's support of the Episcopal Fund is vital to the ministry of Palmer and his colleagues who speak to and from the church, though only General Conference can speak for the church. This vital fund covers bishops' salaries, office and travel expenses, and pension and health benefits.
"Thank you for your contribution of time, talent and treasure," Palmer said. "You are a gift from God to the people of God, and I am grateful."
Indeed, your generosity through the Episcopal Fund makes a huge difference. Thank you!
Offertory Prayer
Loving God, you are our guide throughout our lives. You walk with us through the rough patches and the joyful moments. Thank you for our bishops who serve around the world and who, through their spiritual wisdom, shepherd us on our Christian journey. Amen.
From Discipleship Resources: Seventh Sunday after Pentecost/in Kingdomtide — Holy God of new beginnings, through your son, you have sent us forth in the world to witness and to share the message of repentance. Too often, the church has looked more like a club for the affirmation of members instead of a distribution hub for your transforming power. As we bring our gifts, may they be deployed for your purposes; and may we also be deployed for your purposes. We pray this in the name of our Shepherd to whom you have given care of many sheep. Amen. (Mark 6:6b-13)
Newsletter Nugget
Elected to the episcopacy in 2000, Bishop Gregory V. Palmer served the Iowa Episcopal Area (2000–2008) and the Illinois Area (2008–12) and was assigned to the Ohio West Area in 2012.
In a message to his 2018 annual conference, Palmer said, "Although we have accomplished much, we have so much more yet to do. … Celebrate the accomplishments of our conference, your district and your local church.
"When I think of the connectional system known as The United Methodist Church," he continued, "I am drawn to … Ecclesiastes 4:12, CEB: 'Also, one can be overpowered, but two together can put up resistance. A three-ply cord doesn't easily snap.' We are stronger together."
Like a three-ply cord, our bishops strengthen our church, modeling ways to make disciples of Jesus Christ. United Methodist support of the Episcopal Fund enriches the work of our bishops, paying for their salaries, office and travel expenses, and pension and health benefits.