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 traditionally observe World Communion Sunday on the first Sunday in October. However, congregations are encouraged to celebrate on a date that best suits their schedule. Resources to help you celebrate and promote this Special Sunday are available here.
The official dates for celebrating World Communion Sunday during the current quadrennial season are:
October 5, 2025 October 4, 2026 October 3, 2027 October 1, 2028
HOW TO SUPPORT
- Giving through your local church
- Donating on line at donate.gcfa.org/wcs
- 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 WORLD COMMUNION SUNDAY?
World Communion Sunday celebrates the unity and diversity of the universal Christian community. As we gather around the Lord’s table, we recognize our unity in Christ, joining with others worldwide in Holy Communion. Embracing this commitment, United Methodists are dedicated to nurturing diverse leadership within the church by allocating funds for scholarships and leadership training for under-represented students.
Contributions fund scholarships for U.S. and international students, as well as grants for global inclusion, diversity, equity, and access training. Last year, over $360,000 was raised to advance these educational initiatives:
- Fifty percent of the funds collected go toward
scholarships for undergraduate and graduate
students of color pursuing ordained ministry.
To learn more about how to apply or donate to
the World Communion Scholarships, please email
scholars@umcmission.org.. - Thirty-five percent of the funds collected provide
grants to support training for worldwide inclusion,
diversity, equity, and access. The In-Service
Training Grants support the recruitment, training,
and retention of people of color in leadership roles
across all levels of church ministry. Learn more about
In-Service Training Grants here. - Fifteen percent of the funds collected support
leadership development among partner churches
and communities in Africa, Asia/Pacific, Latin America,
Eastern Europe, and communities of color in the U.S.
For information on applying or to learn more,
please email scholars@umcmission.org.
One of the beautiful things about The United Methodist Church is that, together, we can accomplish far more than we could on our own. Together, we invest in a more inclusive, globally representative church leadership.
LOOKING FOR MORE INFORMATION?
- Read stories about the impact you are making with your gifts
- Use the resources designed specifically to celebrate World Communion Sunday
- Explore and share the Did You Know resources to learn more about this Special Sunday.
