The 2026 Annual Conference Miracle Offering supports life-long learning and discipleship in a variety of contexts. One way we offer that support is through the Endowment for Theological Education in Africa, the Philippines, and Europe. Over the next several weeks, we will be sharing stories and resources as a way to help Dakotas United Methodists understand the difference their generosity is making in the Dakotas and around the world.  We'll also share the weekly reflections from the small group resources shared by the Council of Bishops. (The complete small group guide and worship resources can be found here.)

Below is a testimony from Rev. Kanungu Ngandu Vital from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, who has been impacted by theological education offered through the United Methodist connexion. 

I am a pastor and scholarship student from Kamina who serves as a pastor in the Mulongo district in the Kisasa local church.

After completing my undergraduate studies in Kamina at our United Methodist University, I earned my degree at the Methodist University of Kabongo in 2018. The money I received as a scholarship recipient helped cover the expenses of food, clothing for family members, and medical care for my children and my wife.

My wife, Angel Ngoy wa Ngoy, and I have three children and still live in Kamina. My wife is a market-gardener - she tends our field and grows tomatoes, Chinese cabbage, and onions. This harvest is sold for income, but also provides food to keep our whole family healthy. To study well, you must eat well. My wife’s work also contributes to our family's well-being.

During my pastoral ministry in Kisasa, I had to get to know the community and how to adapt in a new environment. The main activity here is fishing and trading. I learned to fish for leisure and survival while pursuing my pastoral duties. From my ministry, I learned the language of those in this community, a sign of belonging and cultural integration. I'm learning to minister in an environment where I don't know anyone. Fortunately, I socialize easily, so I've strengthened the spirit of leadership and collaboration. By going to the river for fishing, I’m also able to target young people for evangelization, meeting them where they are.

Pastoral ministry reminds me of the words of the prophet Isaiah, where God asks, “Whom shall I send?” God sent me to the districts of Kabongo, Mulongo, and Kamina as an educated pastor. In Mulongo, my work was door-to-door evangelism. It was an enriching experience. I am delighted that pastoral ministry is indeed itinerant.

As a scholarship recipient, I am grateful for donors' financial support. This helps stabilize not only me as a student pastor but also my home and family, providing a strong base for a student life. From this strong base, God sends us forth to minister to others.

Note: Funding for theological education for students like Kanungu will be sustained through gifts to the Endowment Fund for Theological Education

WEEK 4 — Serve Joyfully

Introduction

Christian service is not a burden but a joyful offering to God. In every culture, joyful service reflects gratitude for God’s grace and a desire to bless others. This week’s Scriptures show that joy and service belong together: we serve not to earn God’s love but because we already receive it. Joyful service strengthens communities, honors God, and becomes a powerful witness in the world. As congregations support the Miracle Sunday Campaign, we celebrate the joy that arises when believers use their gifts to teach, lead, encourage, and heal. Joyful service is a gift of the Spirit—shaped by humility, generosity, and love.

Psalm 100

Psalm 100 calls all people to worship and serve the Lord with gladness. The psalmist reminds the community of its identity: “It is God who made us, and we are His.” Because we belong to God, service becomes an expression of gratitude. The imagery of entering God’s gates with thanksgiving conveys a spirit of openness, joy, and reverence. Across cultures, churches use this psalm in worship because it captures the universal call to joyful praise. Service rooted in joy changes how we work, relate, and give. Whether offering hospitality, teaching children, or helping neighbors in need, joyful service witnesses to God’s goodness. Theological education helps leaders nurture a spirit of joy in their ministries, guiding congregations to serve with gladness and confidence in God’s steadfast love.

1 Peter 4:8–11

Peter urges believers to love deeply, practice hospitality, and use their God‑given gifts to serve others. He emphasizes that every gift—whether speaking, teaching, helping, or encouraging—comes from God and should be offered for God’s glory. Serving joyfully means recognizing the value of every contribution, whether public or unseen. Peter also highlights the importance of mutual care within the Christian community. In many parts of the world, churches thrive when each member uses their gifts to strengthen the whole. This passage encourages congregations to view service not as obligation but as privilege. Theological education helps equip leaders to identify gifts within the community, empower laypeople, and nurture ministries that serve with joy and humility.

Mark 10:42–45

Jesus redefines greatness by pointing to servanthood. In a world where power often means control or prestige, Jesus teaches that true leadership is marked by humility and service. He declares that He came “not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” This model challenges cultural norms everywhere. Serving joyfully often requires letting go of status and placing others’ needs first. For congregations, this passage invites reflection on how leaders—pastors, teachers, volunteers—can embody Christ’s humility. Theological education shapes leaders who serve with wisdom, compassion, and courage, following Jesus’ example in every context.

Small Group Leader’s Overview

Joyful service grows from gratitude for God’s grace. Scripture teaches that when believers serve with gladness, the community is strengthened, God is honored, and the world sees a living witness to Christ’s love. Psalm 100 calls us to serve the Lord with gladness. First Peter invites us to use our gifts for the good of others. Jesus, in Mark 10, shows that true greatness comes through humility and service. As congregations participate in the Miracle Sunday Campaign, joyful service becomes a shared testimony of God’s faithfulness and a reflection of the Spirit at work among us.

Discussion Questions

1. Psalm 100 calls us to “serve the Lord with gladness.” What practices help you serve God with joy rather than duty? Consider daily habits, worship, gratitude, or fellowship that lift your spirit as you serve.

2. The psalmist reminds the community, “It is God who made us, and we are His.” How does belonging to God shape the way you serve others? How does your identity in Christ influence your motivation and attitude?

3. Across cultures, congregations express joyful service in many ways. How does your congregation show gladness through hospitality, teaching, music, or care for neighbors? Share examples of joyful ministry from your community.

4. In 1 Peter 4:8–11, every believer receives gifts to serve. What gifts do you see in yourself, and what gifts do you see in others in your group? How might those gifts strengthen your congregation?

5. Peter emphasizes deep love and hospitality. What helps a congregation practice hospitality that is warm, generous, and sustainable? Where do you see hospitality transforming relationships?

6. Peter teaches that serving joyfully brings glory to God. How do you keep your service focused on God rather than recognition or personal satisfaction? Share ways you stay centered on God’s purpose.

7. In Mark 10:42–45, Jesus defines greatness as serving others. What examples of this kind of leadership have you seen in your church or community? How do humble leaders shape the life of a congregation?

8. Jesus says He came “not to be served but to serve.” How does His example challenge cultural expectations about leadership, power, and success? What does joyful, Christlike service look like in your setting?

9. Joyful service often calls us to place others’ needs before our own. When have you seen this kind of sacrificial love make a difference? How might your congregation grow in this area?

10. How does theological education help pastors, teachers, and lay leaders cultivate joyful service in the global Church? Consider the difference that well-formed, Spirit-led leadership makes in congregations everywhere.

Video Testimony

Today, we will hear another story of Philip Micah Dopah from Nigeria, whose ministry is touching lives in powerful ways. As we listen, let us remember:

• Our prayers matter
• Our participation matters
• Our generosity matters