The Miracle Is Growing: United Methodists Around the World Prepare for Miracle Sunday 2026
PRESS RELEASE | May 12, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
News Releases Found At https://www.endowftecc.org/news
From: Bishop Patrick Streiff, The Endowment for Theological Education in Africa, Europe, and the Philippines
The Miracle Is Growing: United Methodists Around the World Prepare for Miracle Sunday 2026
The spirit of generosity, faith, and global connection is rising across The United Methodist Church as preparations build for Miracle Sunday, May 17, 2026. What began as a shared vision to strengthen theological education in Africa, Europe and the Philippines to raise up new generations of pastoral leaders is becoming a powerful testimony of God’s movement through people committed to shaping the future of ministry.
One of the most inspiring examples comes from the South Congo Episcopal Area, where under the faithful and visionary leadership of Bishop Marie-Jeane Mujina Kashala, an extraordinary 912,800,000 Congolese francs (approximately $326,000 USD) has already been firmly committed. This remarkable achievement reflects not only sacrificial giving but a deep, unwavering commitment to raising up future leaders for Christ’s church.
And the miracle continues. South Congo is not stopping here. With hearts full of faith and hope, clergy and laity alike are pressing onward, continuing to give and inspire others ahead of Miracle Sunday. Their witness reminds us that when God’s people unite in purpose, abundance follows.
Equally moving is the story of Kasy, a student at St. Paul’s School of Theology, whose faithful response captures the very heart of Miracle Sunday. Kasy has already given $100 and pledged an additional $400 over the coming years. Sharing his motivation, he said: “From one seminary student to another who wouldn’t be able to study without my own financial help.”
This simple yet profound testimony embodies the spirit of connection, that we are not isolated individuals, but one body in Christ, lifting one another up. It is a reminder that every gift, regardless of size, becomes a seed that grows into opportunity, access, and transformation for future pastors and leaders.
God is moving powerfully across The United Methodist Church.
From global episcopal areas to individual students, the same Spirit is stirring hearts to give, to believe, and to invest in what comes next.
Why Miracle Sunday Matters
On May 17, 2026, United Methodists worldwide will unite in a special offering dedicated to supporting theological education in Africa, Europe, and the Philippines where only 5% of the pastors have theological master’s degrees compared to 71% in the United States. This is more than a one-day event, it is a shared commitment to ensuring that those called to ministry are equipped, trained, and empowered to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ in every corner of the world.
The need is urgent. The opportunity is great. And the impact is eternal.
By giving generously to Miracle Sunday, individuals and congregations are directly investing in:
The formation of future pastors and church leaders
Expanding access to theological education in underserved regions
Strengthening the global mission and witness of the Church
A Call to Generosity
As Miracle Sunday approaches, we invite every United Methodist, every congregation, every leader, every believer, to prayerfully consider how you can be part of this growing miracle.
Give boldly - Give joyfully . Give with expectation.
Because when we give together, we multiply hope.
When we invest together, we shape the future.
When we act together, miracles happen.
Share the Story
We also invite you to share how God is at work in your community. Stories of generosity, transformation, and faith not only celebrate what has been done, they inspire what is still to come. Your testimony could be the encouragement someone else needs to step forward in faith.
Together, we are living into God’s call to love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously.
And together, The Miracle is growing.
For more information and ways to give, contact your annual conference or church leadership or go to https://www.endowftecc.org/
To make a contribution go to www.endowftecc.org/donate
For Conference Treasurers
Send the offering check to:
Payable to:
Endowment Fund for Theological Education
Sent to:
Endowment Fund for Theological Education
GBHEM
Atten: Janie McCollum
P.O. Box 340007
Nashville, TN 37203-0007
For Church Treasurers
You may send your congregation’s offering to your conference treasurer or to the information above.