Dear Leaders,
Thank you for the meaningful work you do to inspire generosity and faith within your congregation. Your leadership is vital in strengthening our collective impact as United Methodists, and we deeply appreciate your efforts in preparing for Native American Ministries Sunday.
This Special Sunday provides an opportunity for your church to celebrate and support Native American Ministries through prayer, awareness, and giving. It’s a tangible way for us to acknowledge and honor the sacred traditions, wisdom, and leadership of Indigenous peoples in our church and beyond.
Below is the first of three emails you can adapt and share with your congregation to build engagement leading up to this important day. This first email is an opportunity to introduce the celebration to your congregation or group. The goal is to share the purpose behind this Special Sunday and invite everyone to participate.
Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Learn about scholarships available at gbhem.org/scholarships. Two scholarships are designated for Native Americans, but only one application is required, and it will be reviewed for all eligible programs
- Reach out to your local Conference CONAM. Many annual conferences have a Committee on Native American Ministries (CONAM), which seeks to advocate for ministry with and by Native Americans. This committee will help you understand the ministries and programs available in your conference.
- Read the Native American Comprehensive Plan. Learn about the initiatives, resources and news that emphasize the ministry for Indigenous communities.
- Create anticipation. Mention that Native American Ministries is coming soon and invite others to mark their calendars. Incorporate the promotional resources to help get the word out (pew cards, posters, infographics, videos and social graphics).
- Pray: Lift up Native American students their higher education goals during group prayers or worship.
We are grateful for all you do to encourage giving and support for this Special Sunday.
In Christ,
The Promotion of Giving Team
Below is suggested copy you can edit and use to announce the special Sunday by email, in your newsletters, for classes or in your bulletin.
Suggested Announcement/Email Copy
Email 1: Deliver 5 Weeks Out
Email Title: Honoring Native American Ministries: A Call to Support
Subject Line: Join Us in Celebrating Native American Ministries Sunday
Pretext: Together, we have a special opportunity to honor and support Native American Ministries
Email Body:
Dear [Church Family/Small Group],
As followers of Christ, we are called to love, learn, and uplift one another in faith. In just five weeks, on Native American Ministries Sunday, we have an opportunity to do exactly that—by recognizing and supporting the incredible contributions of Native American leaders, churches, and ministries within our United Methodist family.
This special offering helps fund Native American ministries, provide scholarships for Native American students pursuing ministry, and support impactful outreach programs. It’s a tangible way for us to acknowledge and honor the sacred traditions, wisdom, and leadership of Indigenous peoples in our church and beyond.
Please mark your calendars for [date], and prayerfully consider how you can be part of this collective effort. Together, we can make a meaningful difference!
Blessings,
[Your Name]
[Your Title/Role]
[Church Name]