Practicing Generosity
Here at Copper Hill United Methodist Church, we believe that the need to demonstrate the virtue of generosity applies to the church as well as individuals. One of the ways we put this belief into practice is to include in our financial planning a regular amount taken from offerings that is to be given to mission causes both near and far away. An approximate financial goal is set through the annual budget planning process. Then, usually on a quarterly basis, the church council sets it aside and designates charities to receive it.
Four Charities Chosen
At its September meeting the church council accepted the recommendation of Missions and Evangelism chairperson, Jan Prevost, to disburse the following:
- To Smile Train: $100. Smile Train provides free treatment for poor children with clefts and other problems.
- To the Petit Family Foundation: $100. The Petit Family Foundation helps fund the education of young people, especially women in the sciences to improve the lives of those affected by chronic illnesses and supports efforts to protect and help those affected by violence.
- To a UMC program in the Philippines: $125. This is a children’s feeding program that is also concerned with rehabilitation of spiritual and physical health, protecting human rights and restoring self-worth.
- To Appalachia: $125. This UMC program works to alleviate hunger and poverty, providing resources to church-based ministries that focus on issues of hunger and poverty.