Through Episcopal Fund, bishops tenderly show the way
“I have a special concern for you church leaders. I know what it’s like to be a leader, in on Christ’s sufferings as well as the coming glory. Here is my concern: that you care for God’s flock with all the diligence of a shepherd. Not because you have to, but because you want to please God. . . . Not bossily telling others what to do, but tenderly showing them the way.”
--1 Peter 5:1-3, The Message
Hearing the disciple Peter’s words in contemporary language, one understands why the term “shepherd” so often is used to refer to bishops. Much as a shepherd tends the sheep, our bishops nurture their flocks: the pastors and the people of The United Methodist Church. More than 140 active and retired bishops around the world provide spiritual guidance.
 When your congregation gives 100 percent to the Episcopal Fund apportionment, you enable our bishops to lead the church in responding to needs related to education, health care, natural disasters, poverty and much more.
The Episcopal Fund comes back to annual conferences in the visionary leadership of your bishop and the continuing support of bishops who are retired. Bishop Eben K. Nhiwatiwa, resident bishop of the Zimbabwe Area, said, “With the assistance and support I get from the Episcopal Fund, I can go and go and go with confidence, knowing God’s resources are put to productive use.” Your congregation’s 100 percent of this apportioned fund is vital.
Your Episcopal Fund gifts strengthen our connectional church and help us to express the bountiful love of Jesus Christ. Thank you!
|
