... a special envelope ... will allow you to make your annual gift to "One Great Hour of Sharing," the offering that supports the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR). From previous epistles, you know that UMCOR is one of my chief reasons for pride in my denomination. When disaster strikes....anywhere in the world....UMCOR is first to arrive and last to leave. Which is why First Church annually leads Michigan Methodism in responding to this appeal. Dr. Bill Ritter, former Senior Pastor (April 4, 2004, issue of Steeple Notes)

Without One Great Hour of Sharing, UMCOR could not respond to disasters such as flooding, civil unrest and violence, refugee crises, landslides, earthquakes, and famine. After the TV cameras leave, UMCOR continues to provide ministry to those in need. UMCOR is funded primarily by gifts from One Great Hour of Sharing and receives no World Service or other apportionment funds. Less than 10% of their budget goes to administrative costs.

While most publicity emphasizes UCMOR's emergency response programs, UMCOR also provides programs for crop irrigation and soil conservation. It supports community health projects. It assists children with HIV/AIDS and persons with physical and mental disabilities. As our Book of Discipline requires, UMCOR does "advance the dignity of persons without regard to religion, race, nationality or sex."

Just as the boy with five barley loves and two fish, God uses all gifts for big purposes. It's remarkable what your gift can do! Please give generously to this once-a-year special collection.