Cents-Ability is a small first step in the battle against hunger and poverty. Congregations invite every member — of all ages — to contribute a few cents at every meal. This simple act is an expression of thanks for what we have received. It is also a commitment to share with others in response to Jesus’ command “You give them something to eat.” When members bring their offerings to church on the appointed Sunday, all of those coins “make a joyful noise unto the Lord” as they are received and dedicated. More to follow in this important step in the fight against hunger. 
From PC(USA)  presbyterian mission.org
A Few Cents
One of the great difficulties we encounter in dealing with problems like hunger is that they are so immense and seem unending; hunger has so many roots and ramifications that we don't know where to begin.  Relying on God's guidance, we can look for the "handle" which seems best to fit our hand.  Using God's strength, we can begin to cut out the root that is nearest to us.
Our church started a Two-Cents-A-Meal program the late 1970's. The old program has been updated and renamed. Our Session has approved a Covenant Partnership with the Cents- A-Bility Program. We have set a goal of 5 cents per meal per person.  Labels are available to wrap around your own collection can or jar. Our first collection will be the second Sunday in August.  This program is one of the ways we can root out hunger close to us - 80% of the money will be used here in Toledo to help support programs like the Toledo Food Bank ministering to the needs of our neighbors.  Another 15% will be disbursed to our local Olympia Presbytery to support the Presbyterian Hunger Grants.  The remaining 5% will go nationally and internationally to organizations or agencies evaluated and approved by the Advisory Committee of the Presbyterian Hunger Program.
Remember  Cents-A-Bility (5 cents) is more than just saving cents per week, per person: it is also a program that encourages us to pray for new guidance in our lives as we attempt to 
​minister to the poor in God's name.  We are called to be faithful to the call of the Gospel to feed the hungry, and to know that by being faithful we are making a BIG difference.
As you prayerfully add to your can or jar, say a prayer for those who will be uplifted by our gifts.

A Table Grace:
We are the hands and feet of Christ
Serving by grace, each other's need.
We dare to risk and sacrifice 
With truthful word and faithful deed.

Kathy Hill
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Each year during the Advent and Christmas season, we turn our eyes to Bethlehem and celebrate the wondrous gift of Jesus Christ, our Savior. By giving to the Christmas Joy Offering, you honor this gift by providing assistance to current and retired church workers in their time of need and developing our future leaders at Presbyterian-related schools and colleges equipping communities of color.
We at TPC are in the midst of taking an offering for this important cause or visit the link below. www.pma.pcusa.org

Operation Christmas Child                                                                             
 The Greatest Journey                                                                                      
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The greatest journey actually began over 2000 years ago when Jesus Christ came to earth as the Son of Man.  O.C.C.'s Greatest Journey program began in 2009.  This program is continuing what Jesus started with every SHOEBOX delivery.  Our shoeboxes are tangible expressions of God's amazing love.  In the past I've often compared these little boxes to a doorway which when opened to the word of God has an unlimited effect.  This SHOEBOX presents an opportunity in over 100 countries for church partners to invite children to participate in The Greatest Journey program and into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. You will be hearing more about this discipleship program throughout the month and asked some of the questions found in the booklet. Let's test our own Bible knowledge and see how we compare. Matthew 28:18-20 gives us our direction.
God bless you all. Sandy B

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