Special Sundays are set aside each year to deepen the connection between the local church and ministries on a global scale. Individuals and congregations are encouraged to support the churches’ collective efforts through an offering. We invite you to help continue to support the vital work of the Special Sundays.
United Methodist Churches are encouraged to observe United Methodist Student Day on any Sunday in May to align with graduation ceremonies. Traditionally observed on the last Sunday of November, this Special Sunday was moved to May by the 2024 General Conference. However, congregations are welcome to choose a date that best fits their schedule. Resources to help you celebrate and promote this Special Sunday are available here.
Scholarship application opens in January of each year. Don’t miss your opportunity – apply today!
HOW TO SUPPORT
You can contribute to United Methodist Student Day in the following ways:
- Giving through your local church
- Donating on line at donate.gcfa.org/umsd
- Sending a check in the mail to:
General Commission on Finance and Administration
P.O. Box 340029, Nashville, TN 37203
(Please include Human Relations Day in the note section of your check.)
WHAT IS UNITED METHODIST STUDENT DAY?
United Methodist Student Day is observed to
emphasize the value of education. Contributions
received through this special Sunday support
scholarships for United Methodist students
pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees.
This includes programs like the Rev. Dr. Karen
Layman Gift of Hope Scholarship, designated
for undergraduates with at least three years
of membership in The United Methodist Church.
Contributions serve as a practical expression
of support, providing both financial assistance
and spiritual encouragement. Through scholarship
funding, we demonstrate the church's commitment
to developing principled leaders for a worldwide
community. This investment fosters community
transformation and empowers future leaders.
Originating in 1872, this fund was the first
offering collected in United Methodist Church
Sunday school classes to support children's
education. Recognizing education as a key
investment in the church's future, the initiative
began as a Children’s Fund and was renamed
Student Day in 1940. United Methodist Student
Day was traditionally celebrated on the last
Sunday of November, but was moved to May
as of General Conference 2024.
Thanks to your generosity, over $200,000 was
raised last year to fund scholarships for United
Methodist students. Every dollar collected on
United Methodist Student Day goes directly toward
these scholarships. Applications open in January
each year, and with a general online application,
students can be considered for any of the scholarship programs.
Learn more about how to apply or donate to scholarships here.
One of the beautiful things about The United Methodist
Church is that, together, we can accomplish far more
than any one congregation can on its own. Together,
we create academic opportunities for a new generation
of principled Christian leaders.
LOOKING FOR MORE INFORMATION?
- Read stories about the impact you are making with your gifts
- Use the resources designed specifically to celebrate United Methodist Student Day
- Explore and share the Did You Know resources to learn more about this Special Sunday
