March 1—April 16
The four church-wide Special Offerings of the Presbyterian Church (USA) are a collective witness to Jesus Christ’s love for the whole church. One Great Hour of Sharing, the Pentecost Offering, Peace & Global Witness Offering, and Christmas Joy Offering play an important role in defining what it means to be a “connectional church”. Over the years, these offerings have provided ways for individuals and congregations to join together with one another and in partnership with other Christians in responding to a variety of concerns.
One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) is the special offering that is collected during Lent. Through this longstanding, ecumenical effort, Presbyterians share God’s love by giving to ministries that provide relief to those affected by natural disasters, food for the hungry, and support towards the self-development of poor and oppressed communities.
One Great Hour of Sharing funds are divided among its three programs:
- 32% – Restoring Hope (Presbyterian Disaster Assistance): Working alongside communities as they recover and find hope after natural or human-caused disasters.
- 36% – Reducing Hunger (Presbyterian Hunger Program): Supporting initiatives that create sustainable food systems and alleviate root causes of poverty so that all may be fed.
- 32% – Partnering in Progress (Self-Development of People): Providing resources and education to oppressed and disadvantaged communities, working to overcome poverty and injustice through initiatives they own and from which they benefit directly.
You will have an opportunity to share in these ministries through your giving to One Great Hour of Sharing during Lent and at our Annual Chili Cook-Off on March 26.