Oblation Ministries
Making a financial contribution to the Oblation fund is one of several ways that church members can support the social ministries of the church. The Oblation fund is managed by Saints Care.
Background
The decision to receive oblation offerings and to extend oblation ministries was provided for by world church conference action in 1917. This action was taken to help the church be faithful to its commission given in Doctrine & Covenants 42:8b, “And, behold, thou wilt remember the poor, and consecrate of thy properties for their support…”
The practice of the church since the action of the 1917 conference has been to receive offerings during communion services for the express purpose of the care of those in need.
The Ministry
When you are involved in oblation ministry you are ministering to those who have the least financial resources and are often hungry, sick or in need of a place to live.
Typically oblation aid is given in the form of a one-off cash grant to an individual or family to pay for a specific basic living need. Care is taken to ensure that the money is responsibly spent and in line with church policy. Although less common, the Oblation fund can also be used for an extended period of financial assistance where that is deemed appropriate by church officers.
Members can participate in this ministry by contributing to the Oblation fund and also by being alert to the needs of others in the congregation and community. Consideration of financial aid from the fund will be made by the congregational leaders in consultation with the Mission Centre Financial Officer. Operational guidelines and church policy direct the proper administration of these funds including attention to confidentiality and privacy rights of those receiving assistance.
The practice of the church since the action of the 1917 conference has been to receive offerings during communion services for the express purpose of the care of those in need.
Who receives oblation aid
The objective is to consider granting financial relief to Australians who are disadvantaged and in necessitous circumstances because of poverty, destitution, suffering or helplessness.
Although the Oblation fund is designed to provide direct relief, the Australia church has also made oblation aid more widely available in selected special circumstances such as major natural disasters. Because donations to the fund, as a division of SaintsCare, are tax deductible we are also accountable to the Australian Taxation Office to ensure funds are used in the approved manner.
Many people wish to return the assistance they receive when they are able to do so. This is encouraged and is generally made as a contribution to the Oblation fund through the envelope system. Returned aid is treated as a donation and provides money for others in need. It is generally not considered the repayment of an obligation to the church.
Conclusion
Oblation aid is received by those in need with gratitude and enables them to live with added hope for the future. It is a ministry that reflects the love of Christ for all people and demonstrates our desire to be faithful to the call to extend that love to those in need.