International Day of Charity: Living Out Our Calling at Wesley

September 5 is recognized as International Day of Charity, a reminder that giving is at the heart of what it means to live faithfully. At Wesley United Methodist Church, we believe charity is more than a donation—it’s an expression of love. We are called to give of our time, talents, and resources to care for our neighbors, near and far.

Giving of Our Time
Charity is more than writing a check—it’s being present. At Wesley, we give time by:

• Serving at food pantries and with local charities
• Visiting the elderly and those in need
• Coaching youth activities
• Serving on church committees, ministry teams, and VBS

Giving of Our Talents
Each of us has unique gifts to share. At Wesley, talents shine through:

• Music: playing in the Praise Band or singing with the Choir or Praise Kids
• Art & Creativity: helping design worship spaces, creating visuals, or using creative gifts for ministry
• Hospitality: welcoming visitors, greeting on Sunday mornings, or preparing meals
• Leadership: serving as a mentor, leading small groups, or guiding ministry teams
• Teaching: serving in Sunday School, youth ministry, or adult studies

Giving of Our Resources
Resources don’t only mean financial gifts. They also include:

• Donating blood at our regular blood drives
• Driving someone without transportation to appointments or church
• Sharing extra food or goods with neighbors in need
• Supporting Wesley’s missions financially as you are able

Charity at Wesley
In 2024, the people of Wesley gave out an incredible $108,712.41—all from the generosity of our congregation. In addition, the United Women in Faith (UWF) gave out just over $18,000 to missions and ministries.

Our giving reflects a commitment that goes beyond our doors. Wesley supports charitable efforts on the local, national, and international levels:

• Locally: Good Samaritan Fund, Loaves & Fishes, Samaritan Well, Genesis Garden, Salvation Army, Wesley Christian Childcare Center, International Student Assistance Fund, Habitat for Humanity, Wesley UMC Annual Mission Trip, Wesley Foundation, Youth for Christ, Sonshine Ministry, and Diaper Ministry.
• Nationally: UMCOR, Midwest Mission, Blanket Sunday, and Golden Cross.
• Globally: Barakah-ONG Orphanage, Africa University, Heifer International, Haiti (Rocourt), and our Mission Trip to Guatemala.

These numbers don’t even include the generosity of the Fellheimer Trust of Wesley United Methodist Church, which gave out just over $800,000 in its 2024–25 fiscal year through grants, benevolence, and scholarships. This long-standing trust continues to be a blessing to both our congregation, other churches, our community, and more, multiplying Wesley’s reach far beyond what we could imagine.

How You Can Get Involved
There are countless ways to live generously at Wesley. Whether it’s volunteering, sharing your skills, or giving in tangible ways, your presence makes a difference. If you’re ready to get connected, we encourage you to fill out our Volunteer Interest Form. This will help us connect you with opportunities that match your passions.

On this International Day of Charity, may we all be reminded that charity is not an event, but a lifestyle of love and service. Let’s continue to give our time, talents, and resources—together.