Week of Compassion is February 17-24, 2008. Let us join together again this year to spread the good news regarding this critical special offering.

North American Disciples have long contributed to Week of Compassion as a vehicle that reaches out to people suffering from the aftermath of natural disasters, civil wars and human catastrophes. Through the work and ministry of Week of Compassion, we as Disciples offer help, hope, and hospitality all around the world and in North America, not only to those who have been displaced or uprooted from their homelands, but also to those living in chronic poverty and need.

Week of Compassion provides communities with access to resources that will allow them to regain stability and dignity through self-help, development, and rehabilitation programs. Families, communities, and organizations are strengthened by their partnership with Week of Compassion, enabling them to confront disease, hunger, poverty, illiteracy and other injustices that destroy human life. The Week of Compassion offering supports projects in more than 80 nations.

In addition, volunteer groups receive encouragement and support to participate in "hands-on" mission and service opportunities. Week of Compassion partners with over 50 Disciples work groups and has formed a strong North American and international mission project network. Through Week of Compassion, Disciples have joined hands with Church World Service, Action by Churches Together, Interchurch Medical Assistance, Foods Resource Bank, Bread for the World, Souper Bowl of Caring, Equal Exchange, Disciples Overseas Ministries, Volunteers in Mission, Refugee and Immigration Ministries, and hundreds of worldwide individual church partners.

The connection begins at home with more than 2800 North American Christian Churches sharing compassion with all of God's children. Annually Disciples channel more than $2.5 million through Week of Compassion for global humanitarian needs.

As we approach the February 17th and 24th dates when this offering is received, we hope your congregation will become increasingly aware of this offering and its significance to the unique Disciples witness in the world. Week of Compassion truly makes a difference in our world!