2006 Pentecost Offering for Children at Risk, Youth, and Young Adults

And they were amazed (Acts 2:7 RSV)

It’s time to get ready for Pentecost!

Is your congregation involved in ministry with children at risk? If not, would you like to be? Your congregation’s share of the Pentecost Offering can help fund that mission.

Forty percent of the Offering stays with your congregation to support ministries of your choosing that serve children at risk.

The remaining sixty percent is sent to the General Assembly for ministries with youth and young adults, advocacy on behalf of children, and scholarships for young adult volunteers.

What’s new in the Pentecost Offering materials for 2006?

1. The theme—This year’s theme is “And They Were Amazed,” taken from Acts 2:7. Those witnessing the miracles were amazed at the mighty acts of God. The same God is still at work today and amazement abounds!
2. The artist—Walnes Cangas, a young Haitian artist, painted a vibrant watercolor to interpret the 2006 theme. The artwork is featured prominently throughout the packet.
3. Reminder postcard—For the first time we have included a reminder postcard that can be sent to individual members of your congregation. Order the quantity you need. They are preprinted and ready to address and mail.
4. A letter from the co-moderators of the Presbyterian Youth Connection—Nathan Ballentine (Florida Presbytery) and Patricia Massey (Presbytery of Coastal Carolina) encourage youth to participate in the Offering1 and help raise funds for survivors of Hurricane Katrina. This letter is on the back cover of the Children and Youth Activity resource.
5. New video—The new “thank you” video is on the home page of the Pentecost Offering Web site. From there you can download it or order the free CD.

What are consistent favorites included in the Pentecost Offering materials for 2006?

1. Excellent stories—The bulletin inserts and minutes for mission (included in the Leader’s Guide) share stories of hope and encouragement from Pentecost Offering recipients.
2. Practical tips—The Leader’s Guide provides inspiration and step-by-step guidance to plan your Offering promotion.
3. Creative activities—The Children and Youth Activity resource provides complete directions for three crafts, two children’s worship bulletins, a list of suggestions to involve children and youth in the Offering, and the Kids Kountdown sharing calendar.

Billie Healy is associate for mission education resources in Congregational Ministries Publishing. She can be reached at (888) 728-7228, ext. 5689.