Minute for Mission: National Day of Prayer

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Office of Public Witness (OPW)

“You shall have no other gods before me” — Exodus 20:3 

This is the first command in The Ten Commandments, the first thing that God spoke to the people of Israel at the base of Mount Sinai as they trembled in fear. 

With the Ten Commandments being one of the most rudimentary elements of our Christian life and witness, we may often err and neglect to sit with these words the Lord imparted to God’s people. The gravity of this commandment, this direct charge to stay far from idolatry, may be lost on us as a result. We may lose sight of where our hope lies, or of hope altogether. 

The National Day of Prayer gives us an important opportunity to reorient ourselves and communally remember who our ruler is. The idolatry of nationalism seems to be all too easy to fall into, particularly in the context of the United States, and particularly as love of God and love of nation seem to become more dangerously intertwined with each passing day. 

Our Reformed view of Christian engagement in the public square holds that we owe the government “our intercession, our active participation, and our prophetic critique.” (A Resolution on Honest Patriotism) Our duty to maintain a prophetic voice comes with a responsibility to speak clearly and loudly against sins committed by and brought through our government. We understand that our government will sin, and historically and presently will even commit grave evils that should bring us to our knees in repentance. 

True love of our nation, its leaders, and preeminently, our God, gives us a propensity to unshoulder any hesitation to speak out against the actions of our country, or any belief that our country or its leaders are above reproach. 

However, we do not only pray for our nation to admonish it. We continue to affirm that our civil governance structures are ordained by God as a function of fulfilling God’s will, glory and justice on Earth. We hold fast to the belief that good can come through our human, fallible structures of governance, and pray that this good may be realized. On this National Day of Prayer, we can boldly say we are broken-hearted and convicted citizens. Even still, we are not without hope.

Our faith and trust are not in military might. Our mission is not brought through violence, and our wars are not Holy. We recognize the danger of believing our country is in divine favor with the Lord. We reject idolatry of nation; both the idolatry which leads us to vicious arrogance, and the idolatry which leads us to despondency. We reorient our gaze and reaffirm our steadfast hope in Christ’s sovereignty and power to redeem all things. 

Elinor Hiller, Peacemaking Intern with the Office of Public Witness

Let us join in prayer for:

Denise Gray, Supervisor, General Ledger Office, Administrative Services Group
Katrinia Green, Controller, Presbyterian Foundation

Let us pray:

Today, we pray for our nation. We pray for our leaders, that they would lead justly, compassionately and wisely. We pray for the health of our nation and lament the violence and vitriol we show one another. We pray for conviction and correction. We know that you reign over all the powers and principalities of this world. We trust that you work for good in all things. Lord, let us remember that you are not absent from these dangerous and difficult times. Our faith and hope remain in you alone. Let your will be done and your glory be revealed. Amen.

Mission Yearbook: 1001 gathering attendees explore forest church in Colorado

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The Rocky Mountains and atmospheric jazz led by Ike Sturm set the stage for forest church on Oct. 14 in Colorado. (Photos by Beth Waltemath)

Morning light recently streamed through the large picture window behind the chancel of Hyde Chapel at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado, casting a golden glow on the exposed wooden beams. The light illuminated the peaks of the Rocky Mountains beyond and silhouetted a herd of elk grazing on the lawn as ethereal praise songs filled the space, led by jazz bassist and composer Ike Sturm and a team of musicians who had never played together before.

The improvisational harmonies, layered with piano, harmonium and voice, created a contemplative atmosphere that invited worshipers into a deeper spiritual space at the 1001 New Worshiping Communities national gathering — setting the stage for a morning ritual that was both elemental and innovative.

“There were so many little nuggets of wisdom in those lyrics and the poetry,” said the Rev. Michael Gehrling, the 1001 New Worshiping Communities associate for recruitment and assessment. Gehrling transitioned the service from the gathering music into the time of reflection, introducing the morning’s worship leader, the Rev. Erin Angeli.

Angeli, co-pastor of the Commonwealth of Oakland near Pittsburgh, introduced an alternative form of worship known as forest church. Drawing from ancient Celtic practices and the book “Forest Church: A Field Guide to a Spiritual Connection with Nature” by Bruce Stanley, Angeli described how her community practices this form of worship as a trauma-informed, inclusive way to encounter God through Creation — what Stanley calls “God’s first Scripture.”

“God is dwelling out there all over the place,” Angeli said. “Taking the time to read what God has written into the land brings a connection to the Spirit that I have found hard to create in a classic worship environment.”

Participants were invited to venture outside and engage with nature through three pathways: awe, study and meaning-making. Some wandered in solitude, while others gathered in small groups to reflect together.

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The Rev. Gilo Agwa tells stories to other African pastors during forest church.

A group of African pastors, many of whom had immigrated from Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, gathered around an unlit fire pit and chose to share stories communally. “We are Africans. We’re communal,” said the Rev. Princeton Abaraoha of the United African Presbyterian Church in Dallas. “In a journey, you don’t travel by yourself.”

Their reflections revealed how deeply nature informs spiritual wisdom in the lives of Africans. Pastor Edrine Ddungu of Sacramento Uganda Community Fellowship in California described taking young adult congregants to Uganda on “respite trips” to learn from its culture and nature. 

The Rev. Dr. Fred Mangeni, pastor of Jubilee International Fellowship in Wake Forest, North Carolina, shared how, during his time with the Maasai people in Kenya, he learned that it wasn’t necessary to build a church but rather to “create a space where they are,” for nature is their constant sanctuary as they migrate with the animals.

“You encounter the divine in your journey,” agreed Abaraoha, recalling how a Maasai leader once advised him to stay with the group because lions only attack those who stray from the line. The guide had urged, “Follow me. I am your way,” echoing the words of Jesus in John 14:6.

“That’s Maasai Scripture,” added Mangeni. “He didn’t have to read you the Gospel of John.”

“There is power in community,” Abaraoha continued. “You achieve more when you travel in community than when you travel by yourself.”

After 30 minutes, the musicians set up on the grass outside the chapel to call the worshipers back indoors to share their discoveries. Angeli invited those gathered to speak about what moved them.

One worshiper described feeling awe at a tree with both living and dead branches, still connected — a metaphor for resilience and spiritual sustenance. “Even when you feel like the life is sucked out, you’re still connected,” they said.

As the group reconvened in Hyde Chapel, Angeli closed the service with a prayer that captured the spirit of the morning: “Gracious God, hold up that sunlight for us just a little while. We thank you for these bright spots, for these times where you turn the kaleidoscope of life, and we can see, feel, smell and touch you in the world.”

Beth Waltemath, Communications Strategist, Presbyterian Life & Witness (Click here to read original PNS Story)

Let us join in prayer for:

Denise Govindarajan, Associate Director, Digital Strategy & Information Systems, Administrative Services Group
Joanna Graf, Administrator, Finance, IT, Strategic Initiatives, The Board of Pensions

Let us pray:

Loving God, thank you for courage, creativity and perseverance. Give us health and strength in difficult circumstances. Shine your face upon all of us so your love will light our path. Amen.

More Information about the World Communion Offering

World Communion Offering Logistics This year marks the first World Communion Offering received on World Communion Sunday. We are so excited to be sharing this experience with you. Here is the important information you need to know. A Season of Preparation, Sept. 6–Oct. 4, 2026 Offering date: World Communion Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026   What to expect Standing Orders — orders will ship in late July. If your congregation had a standing order for the former Peace & Global Witness Offering, you will automatically receive a World Communion Offering standing order. Downloadable resources — a Leader’s Guide, video and other resources will be available on our website closer to the start of A Season of Preparation. Grant Announcements — We'll let you know when grant applications will open and how to apply for a World Communion Offering grant. Update your email preferences to receive grant information as it becomes available. Read our grant FAQs to learn more about the World Communion Offering grants.  Visit World Communion Offering Website Thank you for supporting the World Communion Offering! We are the Church. Together. If you have any questions, reply to this email or call us at (800) 728-7228, Ext. 5047.

Copyright © 2026 Special Offerings, All rights reserved.

Minute for Mission: Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People

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Humanizing Through Stories (Photo by Madison McKinney)

The crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people (MMIWG2S) is one of the most urgent human rights issues facing North America. Across the United States and Canada, Indigenous women and girls experience violence at disproportionately high rates, shaped by the enduring impacts of colonization, systemic racism and social marginalization.

Although Indigenous women make up a small percentage of the population, they are vastly overrepresented among victims of violence. Many cases receive little media attention, and families often encounter barriers in law enforcement response and jurisdictional coordination. This lack of visibility has contributed to the movement’s rallying cry: “No More Stolen Sisters.”

The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) joins others in recognizing May 5 as a National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people. This day offers an opportunity for prayer, education and public witness. It calls the church to remember those whose lives have been taken or remain unaccounted for, and to stand in solidarity with grieving families and communities.

For people of faith, this reality calls for both lament and action. Scripture reminds us that every person is created in the image of God and deserving of dignity, protection and justice. The church is called to listen to Indigenous voices, support advocacy for policy reform, and participate in efforts that seek truth, accountability and healing.

The inclusion of Two-Spirit people in this movement also reminds us that violence intersects with gender identity and sexuality, increasing vulnerability for those living at multiple margins.

As the PC(USA) engages in God’s mission, we are invited to bear witness — on May 5 and throughout the year — working toward a world where Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people are safe, honored and fully seen.

JoAnne Sharp

Let us join in prayer for:

Ashley Gibson, HR Assistant, Human Resources, Administrative Services Group
Sharon Dunne Gillies, Managing Editor, Presbyterian Women

Let us pray:

God of justice and compassion, we remember before you the lives of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people. We grieve the violence, the silence, and the loss that weighs on families and communities. We confess that systems meant to protect — law enforcement, legal structures and social institutions — too often fail to bring justice or safety. Stir in us holy courage to name these failures and to work for change. Teach us to listen deeply to Indigenous voices, to honor the dignity of every life, and to stand in solidarity with those seeking truth and healing. May your Spirit guide us beyond words into action, that your justice may roll down and your peace take root in every community. In your holy name we pray. Amen.

Pastor's Life - The Call

Whether your church is mega or small, the call and the work matter the same by Rev. Lorenzo Small, Sr. A CNN article was recently sent to me regarding the success of a mega church in Atlanta that I will not name. The premise of the article was that this pastor has figured out how to reach young people in the thousands, while highlighting the continued failure of the mainline church in America. The article actually names the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) as one of those failing denominations. Now, before I write the rest of this devotion, let me say that we, disciples of Jesus Christ, celebrate wherever God is at work and persons are being reached with the glorious gospel of Jesus regardless of size and denomination. However, I refute any notion that says God is only at work in these mega places. Furthermore, I refute any teaching that says unless we employ a particular strategy, we are doomed for failure. So today, I write to encourage and warn us one-talent pastors, that is, pastors who serve in communities like mine, Battle Creek, MI. Pastors who serve in places where the membership of these mega churches exceeds the population of your entire city. I am writing to us lest we become discouraged and, like the unprofitable servant in Matthew 25:14–30, fail to take seriously the call God/Jesus has given to us to be just as productive in our small places as our brothers and sisters in these big places.

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Rev. Lorenzo Small serves as Lead Pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Battle Creek, Michigan. He is a graduate of North Carolina A & T State University where he studied Finance. Following graduation, he moved to St. Paul, Minn., where he worked for a number of years in the corporate world (for such companies as 3M Corporation and Eli Lilly). While there, he felt the call to the ministry and was ordained as a Baptist minister. Following graduation from Union Presbyterian Seminary he was ordained and installed as pastor of Pleasant Ridge Presbyterian Church of Lancaster, S.C. Rev. Small is a board member of the Foundation for Reformed Theology. He previously served as pastor of First United Presbyterian Church of Charlotte, N.C.

Featured Resources

Pastors need to take time for legacy planning Pastors attending the 2026 Luminosity Conference in Orlando were invited to reflect deeply on faith, family, and the lasting impact of their ministries during a workshop titled "Legacy is not just for Laity," presented by Rev. Ellie Johns-Kelley and Rev. Erin Skinner. Read Story

Church Financial Leadership Grant Program Grants are available to assist Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) pastors and New Worshiping Community leaders to attend continuing education opportunities, such as Stewardship Kaleidoscope, to help pastors lead their congregations toward financial and missional vitality.  More Information

Connection and vulnerability are keys to supporting faith communities, congregations “Human beings need connection,” Rabbi Sharon Brous said. “It is connection that gives our lives meaning and purpose.” She spoke at the Luminosity Conference in March urging church leaders to resist isolation, embrace vulnerability and deepen human connection. Read Story

Mission Yearbook: Chicago pastor warns against ‘bland’ faith and issues a call for unity

The Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III, pastor of Trinity United Church of
Christ in Chicago, addresses the 27th Council of the World
Communion of Reformed Churches, meeting in Chiang Mai,
Thailand. (Photo by Rick Jones) 

“Are we losing our flavor? Are we dimming our light?”

The Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III, pastor of Chicago’s Trinity United Church of Christ, recently posed these challenging questions to the World Communion of Reformed Churches' 27th General Council.

Speaking on the third day of the global gathering in Chiang Mai, Thailand, Moss urged delegates to persevere in fostering a just communion, resist diluting the Gospel and dare to join their lights together. Watch Moss' address here.

Salt, he said, has two functions: to preserve and to add flavor.

“We the people of God are called to be the salt and the light of this world,” Moss said. “The beauty of this World Communion of Reformed Churches is the diverse flavors of this gathering. We all bring flavor to the table!”

Moss warned against the “bland and bitter” spiritual diet spreading across churches and nations.

“Has the bland and bitter non-seasoned flavor of hatred become the new civic recipe for the church and nations across the globe?” he asked. “There is a growing addiction to theologically unhealthy processed spiritual food lacking any nutritional value.”

He spoke amid U.S. debates over educational curricula, where some lawmakers are moving to restrict teaching about the civil rights movement, slavery, lynching, segregation, and LGBTQ, Asian, Black, Indigenous, and Latino histories.

“Much of the spiritual food we are consuming in the space called America and across the globe is recycled colonial compost killing us from the inside out,” Moss said. “If we do not have the courage to change our theological diet, we will become emaciated, unethical souls unable to walk due to our self-righteous consumption of greed and self-absorbed power.”

Moss also cautioned against the Gospel being co-opted by prosperity theology. “When the church centers itself on personal prosperity or being a government auxiliary, it has gone down the road of contamination,” he said.

The pastor called on WCRC delegates from its 230 member churches to consider how they might let their collective light shine brighter.

“The challenges in the world today may be daunting, and we may be tempted to lose our salt quality or cover our light,” Moss said. “Our individual light may not look like much, but if we dare take our light and join together, we can create a blaze to illuminate the world.”

Amid applause, he urged unity across church traditions, nations and regions.

“We will no longer have a little light, but a blaze to illuminate the Gospel, empower the poor, liberate the oppressed, set the captives free, declare the year of the Lord’s favor, and bless our planet!” he said.

Responding to Moss, Prof. Heleen Zorgdrager of the Protestant Theological University in Amsterdam reflected on the question, “Who owns the salt?”

“My country, the Netherlands, has a troubled history with salt,” Zorgdrager said. “Battles were fought between imperial powers over access to salt. In our time, the spirit of owning and exploiting is alive more than ever.”

The Rev. Prof. Joseph Obiri Yeboah Mante, moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, recalled the complicated history of Christianity in Africa.

“When the Christian Gospel first arrived in my part of Africa, it never came as a pure light or tasty salt,” he said. “It came with worship services on the top floors and slave dungeons on the ground floors of the slave castles. In the same building, when people were painfully screaming downstairs, slave masters and slave mistresses were praying and doing Bible studies upstairs.”

Susan Kim for the World Communion of Reformed Churches (Click here to read original PNS Story)

Let us join in prayer for:

Lemuel Garcia, Stewardship Officer, Stewardship and Major Gift Officers, Administrative Services Group
Ruth Gardner, Director, Human Resources, Administrative Services Group  

Let us pray:

Triune God, you call us daily to participate in your mission. Remind us that we may serve in our communities, across our nation or on lands abroad. Open our hearts to your transforming power so that our fruit will be acceptable in your sight. In Christ we pray. Amen.

Minute for Mission: Legacy Giving Sunday highlights enduring impact of planned gifts

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Westminster PC in Minneapolis (Photo by Gregg Brekke)

On Legacy Giving Sunday, congregations across the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) are invited to reflect on a simple but powerful question: How will today’s faith sustain tomorrow’s ministry?

At Westminster Presbyterian Church in Minneapolis, the answer has taken shape over more than a century. The downtown congregation, known for its wide-ranging ministries in education, music, social justice and congregational care, continues to thrive in part because of legacy gifts made by generations of members. 

Those gifts have helped ensure the church’s witness extends far beyond its walls. Longstanding partnerships with faith communities in Cameroon, Cuba, and Palestine, along with local outreach and member care, reflect a congregation deeply invested in both its city and the wider world. (Watch a video about the congregation’s legacy giving program here.) 

Legacy giving remains a meaningful way for members to express that commitment. Importantly, leaders emphasize that such gifts are not reserved for the wealthy. Rather, they are accessible to anyone who wishes to make a lasting impact.

For some, that commitment is tied to a specific moment. One longtime member, who spent decades in public service, was inspired to make a legacy gift following a recent capital campaign that expanded the church’s building. Part of that expansion now houses a mission partner serving children who have experienced trauma and supporting healthier family relationships.

Others see legacy giving as a natural extension of lifelong connection. A member who has been part of the church since childhood chose to include Westminster in her estate plans, ensuring future generations will experience the same community that shaped her faith.

Younger families are also embracing the practice. One couple, raising their children in the congregation, view their planned gift as a way to model generosity and stewardship.

Through Legacy Giving Sunday, the Presbyterian Foundation underscores that these stories are not unique to one congregation. Across the denomination, the Foundation works alongside churches and individuals to design legacy giving strategies tailored to each congregation’s mission and each donor’s circumstances.

Ministry Relations Officers, the Foundation’s regional church, support staff, help guide congregations through the process. You can find yours here. 

Additionally, you can download guides on legacy giving:

Legacy Planning Guide for Individuals 

                English

                Spanish

                Korean

Legacy Planning Guide for Church Leaders 

                English

                Spanish

                Korean

Estate Planning Workbook

                English

                Spanish

                Korean

As churches look to the future, Legacy Giving Sunday serves as both invitation and assurance: With thoughtful planning and faithful partnership, the impact of the church can endure for generations.

Robyn Davis Sekula, Vice President of Communications and Marketing at the Presbyterian Foundation, Ruling Elder in the PC(USA) and Member of Highland Presbyterian Church in Louisville

Let us join in prayer for:

Lacey Hunter, Manager, Financial Planning, Organizational Planning and Operations, Presbyterian Life & Witness
Mary Beene, Stewardship Officer, Stewardship and Funds Development, Administrative Services Group

Let us pray:

Dear God, teach us to be generous with all that we have, which all comes from you. Help us to discern the best path in caring for all that has been entrusted to us. Teach us to hear your call. Amen.