Mission-Recognition Price Increase Maintains Margin for Mission
by BARBARA WHEELER*
United Methodist Women's Special Mission Recognitions and accompanying pins have increased in price to maintain a generous donation to mission with each purchase.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2007, the price of the basic Special Mission Recognition pin increased from $35 to $40 and the price of the sapphire Special Mission Recognition pin from $50 to $60. Prices of other pins - pearl, $100; emerald, $200; ruby, $500; diamond, $1,000; and double diamond, $2,000 - will remain the same.
"Because the cost to acquire the metal for the pins has increased, we're paying more for each pin," said Andréa Hatcher, treasurer of the Women's Division of the United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries. "If we don't raise the price, we cut into our margin of giving to mission."
In 2005, close to $850,000 was raised through Special Mission Recognitions. Through September 2006, more than $500,000 had been raised. The money given for Special Mission Recognitions is channeled to Mission Giving, which funds mission with women, children and youth across the United States and around the world.
Special Mission Recognitions are given to honor individuals' work for and commitment to mission. They are given to members of United Methodist Women and beyond to others in churches and society. They recognize the important roles individuals play in mission in their local and global communities. They can be given by groups - like United Methodist Women units - or by individuals. Here are a few ideas for this special gift:
- Acknowledge a church member who has served as a missionary;
- Honor a United Methodist Women member for her service to the organization;
- Show appreciation to a young woman who is a tutor in the church's after-school program;
- Thank the director of the local food pantry for her or his work in the community;
- Recognize a pastor who shows dedication to mission.
To order Special Mission Recognitions, contact the treasurer of your local United Methodist Women unit. Pins should be ordered at least one month in advance of the presentation of the honor, Ms. Hatcher said.
