“O God, from my youth you have taught me, and I still proclaim your wondrous deeds.”
~ Psalm 71:17
The Pentecost Offering unites us in a church-wide effort to support young people in Christ and inspire them to share their faith, ideas, and unique gifts with the church and the world.
Each year on Pentecost Sunday, we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit and the birthday of the church. The Holy Spirit remains with us still, connecting us with the church of the past, continuing to inspire the church of today, and pointing us to the church of the future.
Faith Development for God’s Children
Studies show that a foundation of faith established during childhood through young adulthood helps ensure lifelong faith and service. Psalm 71 testifies to this same truth. Verse 17 says, “O God, from my youth you have taught me, and I still proclaim your wondrous deeds.” The patterns and lessons established during these formative years continue to bear fruit throughout a person’s life.
These lessons might be taught through a congregation’s commitment to Educate a Child, Transform the World in ministries that shape a child’s academic achievement, setting them on a path toward a stable future. They might be taught through one of the youth events sponsored by Ministries with Youth at the national church that bring together young people from all over the country to share their experiences of faith with one another and learn how their faith can help them address challenges all over the world. Or our young adults may be guided through a year of intentional service where they discern God’s call upon their lives by our Young Adult Volunteer Program.
And There is More
Presbyterian congregations are finding new ways to minister to children at risk in their own communities. General Assembly programs are advocating for children and developing youth and young adult leaders.
By giving to the Pentecost Offering, we are nurturing the faith of those who are the church to come — children, youth, and young adults. Our congregation is joining the whole church in building for our future, in building individual lives of faith. Won’t you join in your support? If we all do a little, it adds up to a lot.
Let Us Pray
Transforming Spirit, bless our children, youth, and young adults with a faith that grows their whole lives long. May these gifts we offer shape the future of your Church. Amen.
Join Us
For more information and resources related to the Pentecost offering, visit presbyterianmission.org/pentecost.
This post is based on the Minute for Mission script which can be found on our website as a script.
Please give generously to the Offering:
- Through your congregation
- Text YOUNG to 20222 to give $10
- Donate online