The United Methodist Stewardship Foundation

October 2, 2011 -- Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Almighty God, you gave us your commandments and asked us to live according to your holy will. As part of your design for honorable living, we participate in this simple act of giving. We dedicate ourselves to living lives of honesty and peace. Amen. (Based on Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20.)

October 9, 2011 -- Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost

God of Peace, we are confronted with so many overwhelming needs in our world. Walk with us as we set aside our own desires and wants and join the call to alleviate human suffering. Transform these financial gifts into genuine acts of concern and ministry to others. In the name of the One who surpasses all understanding, we pray. Amen. (Based on Philippians 4:1-9.)

October 16, 2011 -- Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost/Laity Sunday

God of Wisdom, we rejoice that you have provided us with numerous examples of generous giving. We obediently share this offering in full knowledge that all of our resources and assets are ultimately a gift from you. Help us to use them wisely and to share them generously. We pray in the name of your son, Jesus Christ, who gave his life, so we may live abundantly. Amen. (Based on Matthew 22:15-22.)

October 23, 2011 -- Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Lord, you have entrusted us with the awe-inspiring task of sharing the message of the gospel. We acknowledge that we cannot simply give money and expect your message to be spread. We must consistently give ourselves by offering our time, talents, gifts, witness, and service. Stir within us the courage to be Christian stewards in our daily living. Accept these gifts as a symbol of our love and commitment to you. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen. (Based on I Thessalonians 2:1-8.)

October 30, 2011 -- Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost

Loving Father, we humbly dedicate these tithes and offerings to your use. As believers, we are comforted by the knowledge that you will multiply these gifts. Allow this money to become a resource that lifts the shadows of despair from the recesses of people's lives. We recognize that only you can restore faith to the faithless, hope to the hopeless, and love to the loveless. May your will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven! Amen. (Based on I Thessalonians 2:9-13.)

Written by Brian Sheetz, Executive Director, East Ohio United Methodist Foundation. You may contact him at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .