Rev. William Bills
November 30, 2020
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
What an unusually difficult year this has been. As we prepare again for the coming of Christ, we may be unsettled and anxious. Covid has altered travel plans and family gatherings. Graduations, proms, sporting events, weddings and funerals have been disrupted. We have faced illness in our families, illness ourselves, and some have lost loved ones. Floods, hurricanes and wildfires have disrupted many lives. Economic uncertainty adds to holiday stress. May this be a time of renewed hope for all of us as we remember Emmanuel; God is with us.
There are many needs, near and far that claim our attention this season. Our Missions Committee has identified three that they would like you to consider supporting with a special Christmas offering this year.
The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) is our denomination’s global relief agency. UMCOR is rivaled only by the Red Cross in its ability to offer disaster relief around the world and in the US. UMCOR has been responding to floods, hurricanes, wildfires and the Covid pandemic all year. Their work on behalf of the United Methodist Church is invaluable.
The United Methodist Community House in Grand Rapids offers many services and opportunities in their community. There is a day care center and a preschool, senior meals and ministries, after school programs, computer labs, summer camps and more at the Community House. This ministry serves many people in many ways. This ministry is essential to the Grand Rapids community.
The Lansing Area Food Bank serves many, many people closer to our congregation. They depend greatly on the support of churches in the greater Lansing area as they help others with basic food needs.
Please consider a special Christmas offering this year to help these three vital ministries. I understand that this has been a difficult year for all of us. If you are able to help others this Christmas season your gift will be a great blessing! Please return your gift to 1120 S. Harrison, East Lansing, MI 48823 or donate through the Venmo app (@UUMCDonation) and indicate that it is for the “Christmas Offering.”
Thank you for your generosity. May the peace of Christ be with you, today and always!
At University United Methodist Church, we affirm that as disciples of Jesus Christ, we are an open and inclusive congregation and welcome all persons into full participation regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic situation, age, ability, education, background and whether single or partnered.