It is time to joyfully and prayerfully give thanks for the ministries of our church. Oxford-University United Methodist Church has a magnificent history and a strong future because we rely on God to lead us and we care for people. Will we let Him be glorified during our stewardship campaign? Will we, as His children, be obedient?

As you begin prayerful consideration in regard to your monetary contribution for 2005, please recall these principles of Christian stewardship:

· God is the Creator, Owner, and Giver of all. Psalm 24:1.

· Each of us is a steward. God has entrusted us with all we possess. I Corinthians 29:14 and 12:11.

· We, as Christians, give because of the joy we receive in God’s gift of Jesus Christ. II Corinthians 8: 1-5 and 9: 6-7.

· The tithe, one tenth, indicates thanksgiving to God and a means of maintaining a relationship with Him. Deuteronomy 26: 10-11.

Our stewardship emphasis will take place on the following Sundays: October 10^th, 17^th, 24^th, and 31^st. October 31^st is Pledge Sunday, the Sabbath on which we return our pledge cards and adjourn to Wesley Hall following the 10:55 a.m. service for our Celebration Luncheon.

Will we commit to give financially in proportion to income? Will we stretch and give? Will ours be a faith offering, one which involves going beyond the comfort area ~ and into faith giving? If we do not currently tithe, will we adopt the goal of moving toward the tithe?

Prayerful consideration is needed to “give what’s right, not what’s left”. Stewardship is about God’s love and our response to that love.

Sincerely,

Vicki L. Sneed, Chair Warren C. Black, Jr.

Stewardship Pastor

Pat Tatum, Chair Dennis Tosh, Chair

Finance Staff-Parish Relations