As we enter this season of giving, I encourage each of you to embrace a practice of grateful generosity through the World Thank Offering. As one of the five channels of intentional mission giving in UW Faith, the World Thank Offering invites us to make gratitude a daily spiritual practice.
For generations, UW Faith members have saved coins and dollars in special Thank Offering banks, setting aside gifts in response to moments of gratitude and blessing. Whether it was a coin given in thanks for a friend, a word of encouragement, a safe journey, or simply a sunny day, placing that coin in a "Thank Bank" became a tangible reminder of God's abundant blessings. 
Many units and circles continue this tradition each year, often gathering for a special World Thank Offering celebration in November.
In today's digital world, many of us no longer carry cash or collect loose change, and coin-filled jars have become less common. Yet the spirit of the World Thank Offering remains as meaningful as ever.
This year, I have chosen a new gratitude practice in the weeks leading up to my circle's World Thank Offering celebration. Each time I buy a cup of coffee, I set aside that same amount as my offering. The simple rhythm of a brief prayer of gratitude, a cup of coffee, and intentional mission giving helps me connect everyday moments to God's generosity.
Your practice may look different. Perhaps you set aside fifty cents each day and record one blessing in a gratitude journal, or perhaps you give five dollars each time you dine out. The amount is less important than the intention. The World Thank Offering invites us to pause, recognize God's blessings in our lives, and respond with grateful giving that supports mission and ministry around the world.
-- Karen Anderson-Lain, Metro North & Mid-North District President
Deaconess Candidate, Order of Deaconesses & Home Missioners, UMC
FREE 2026 Program Resource: World Thank Offering from UWFaith here
Make your own World Thank Bank: Directions & Template
