How to make an Offering of Letters
Congratulations to everyone who took part in the 'Offering of Letters' campaign in 2009. We presented a record number of 5612 , handwritten letters to our PM, reminding him that Christians care about issues of global poverty.
2010 - Election Year
2010 is an election year, and an important opportunity to let our leaders know that Christians are passionate about poverty reduction.
Micah Challenge is calling supporters to write to Kevin Rudd again this year, asking him to take action to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and reduce global poverty. But this year, we ask that you personally deliver or mail your Offering of Letters to your local MP, and ask them to pass them on to the PM. This way you engage both your elected representative as well as the PM with the issue.
You can make and Offering of Letters as a church any time during the year, but we ask that you deliver your letters to your Member of Parliament BEFORE the Federal Election (expected to take place in the second half of 2010). As the election looms, your MP will be paying particular attention to the interests of their constituents. They are hoping to win your vote, so they will be taking your concerns seriously.
What is an Offering of letters?
Just as we offer our money and our time to God, Micah Challenge is encouraging churches and social action groups to offer their voices to God, on behalf of the poor. We've put together a detailed document to help you plan and present an offering of letters including a responsive prayer and information about the issues.
Click here to download the Offering of Letters 2010 Letter Writing Guide
Click here for suggested OOL wording for kids
Note: The Offering of Letters Guide is also part of the Action Guide in the Micah Challenge Action Toolkit. If you would like to order hard copies of the Toolkit or Action Guide, please contact the Micah Challenge Office: info@micahchallenge.org.au.
How to make an Offering of Letters:
Well, it's up to you but you may like to try this format:
1. Speak about the issues, inform your congregation or group about poverty, aid, the MDGs and why writing letters is important.
2. Pray for the right words to write and that the letters would be effective. Click here for prayer suggestions.
3. Write the letter. Kids can draw pictures or click here for suggested wording for older kids.
4. Make an offering, pass around the offering tray for people to place their letter in.
5. Send your Letters to your local MP before the 2010 election. Attach a letter explaining that you are a church in their electorate who are passionate about poverty reduction, and ask them to pass the letters on to the PM. Click here for information on contacting your MP.
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Resources from Offering of Letters 2009
This powerpoint can be used to help explain to your group what the Offering of Letters is, how it works and why it's important. It also includes slides of the letter and prayer.
Use these facts and short stories in your Church bulletin or announcements in the lead up to Offering of Letters 09. This will help people understand the issues and pray effectively.
Send this media release to your denominational publications or upload it to your church website.