Dear Friends,

“There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish. But what are they among so many people?” — John 6:9 (NRSV)

Great things happen when people give generously, in the spirit of love and hope. We are reminded of this each year when we, as a community of faith, have the opportunity to share in the Week of Compassion Offering and become part of this ministry of our church that reaches out to people in need all around the world.

Week of Compassion has grown tremendously over the past sixty years. From an initial appeal to respond to the humanitarian needs after World War II, Week of Compassion has grown into a multifaceted initiative that enables Disciples to be part of a remarkable network of caring and service that reaches out to people in the aftermath of an array of natural and human disasters, as well as those who struggle every day against hunger, poverty, disease and other long-term, chronic ills. With church partners and brother and sister Christians throughout the world, Week of Compassion builds communities, teaches skills, strengthens families, prevents disease, and promotes hope and wellbeing among all humankind.

Of course, in many ways Week of Compassion remains what it has always been: an opportunity simply and significantly to share. Week of Compassion is built on the affirmation that we are all beneficiaries of God’s gifts: we all receive, and all are called to give. We all have opportunities to serve others, and we all count on the kindness of others, each day of our lives.

There is another way in which Week of Compassion remains true to its original vision: it still depends on the grace of God to transform ordinary gifts, given by people just like you and me, to imbue them with power to change not only the giver and the receiver, but also the very world in which we live. As with the loaves and fishes, what we have to offer can do more than we ever imagine — when it is put to God’s purposes.

On (dates), we will receive our offerings for Week of Compassion. We hope you can be with us in worship on those Sundays to offer your gift in person, but if not, please send your gift through the mail or by a friend. Your gift is important. As our theme this year says: “God Uses All Gifts for Big Purposes: It’s remarkable what your gift will do.”

Sincerely,