The Ministry of Giving
The Ministry of Giving
PCUSA Special Offerings
Community of Faith participates in the 4 Special Offerings of the Presbyterian Church (USA) which are taken up quarterly. A portion of some of these offerings may be designated by the church for local mission purposes.
The One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) offering is taken during the Lenten (spring) season in the year. It is used for three types of ministry (sub-programs), called Presbyterian Disaster Relief, the Presbyterian Hunger Program, and the Self Development of People. More people give to this offering than any of the other special offerings during the year in the PCUSA.
The Pentecost Offering is taken during the season on Pentecost, following Easter (also spring) It is dedicated to funding ministry and programming for children and youth. 40% of the offering is retained by the congregation, to be designated for use in local programs for at-risk children.
The Peacemaking (Peace and Global Witness) offering and ministry is used to promote peace and justice throughout the world. The offering is taken in September and October (fall). Congregations, such as COF, retain 25% of this offering to address issues related to the theme in their local community.
The Christmas Joy offering is received during the Advent Season (winter) just prior to Christmas. Its purpose is to provide support to retired church workers, especially those who have limited funds to draw on in retirement. An additional use for the offering is to provide scholarships to students to attend traditional racial-ethnic colleges and universities.
Another offering, which several of our church members regularly contribute to, is Presbyterian Disaster Relief. This agency, also called Disaster Response and Development, sends resources and teams of volunteers to assist in disaster recovery from natural disasters, such as storms, floods, earthquakes, and tsunamis, in the U.S. and around the world. Learn more about Presbyterian Disaster Relief by CLICKING HERE.
Other giving opportunities
Throughout the year the Community of Faith congregation receives special collections for ministries in our community and in the world.
- School supplies for students in local schools
- Canned and dry goods for Be Concerned in Covington, KY
- Souper Bowl Sunday– money and food for local food ministries
- Nicaragua Offerings– fundraising for water projects in rural communities in the San Carlos area as well as for the Sewing Co-op Sastreria Manos
- Seasonal collections of hygeine products for local shelters