Dear Colleagues in Ministry,

There are few activities within the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) that serve as common bonds among our congregations despite geographical, demographical, and theological differences. The Special Offerings are one of the shared practices engaged by an overwhelming majority of our churches. The Offerings are "connective tissue," bringing together all stripes of Presbyterian congregations into common mission in Christ's name. Even so, we believe there is great untapped potential in these Offerings. As leaders in our denomination, you play a key role in revitalizing these Offerings which impact so many areas of the connectional church's ministry.

That is why we urge you to participate in a focus group on the Special Offerings commissioned by the General Assembly Special Offerings Advisory Task Force and held on July 6th and 7th during the proceedings of the 219th General Assembly in Minneapolis. The focus groups will be conducted by the Alford Group [www.alford.com] and take place at the following times:

• Tuesday, July 6th     10:30 AM - Noon, 
• Tuesday, July 6th       1:30 PM - 3:00 PM, 
• Tuesday, July 6th       3:00 PM - 5:00 PM,
• Wednesday, July 7th  10:30 AM - Noon, 
• Wednesday, July 7th    1:30 PM - 3:00 PM,

Please find attached a concept paper that describes your important role in the research and analysis of the Special Offerings.

Please contact Denise Dukes, Denise.Dukes@pcusa.org , (502) 569-5026, to schedule and confirm your participation.

We thank you in advance for the key role that you will play in growing the potential and effectiveness of these important church-wide Special Offerings!

Grace and peace,

The Rev. Karl Travis
First Presbyterian Church, Ft. Worth, TX
Chair, Special Offerings Advisory Task Force

The Rev. Betty Meadows, President of AEPS
General Presbyter
Mid-Kentucky Presbytery