Offering, Offerings

Gifts presented at a church service or other gathering. At the offertory, prior to the eucharistic prayer, representatives of the congregation bring the people's offerings of bread and wine, and money or other gifts, to the deacon or celebrant (BCP, p. 361). An offering (typically of money) may be presented at the offices of Morning and Evening Prayer (BCP, p. 142). The couple may present the offerings of bread and wine when the eucharist is part of the celebration and blessing of a marriage (BCP, p. 432). At times, those who attend a church program or presentation may be invited to make an offering to support the program, a needy cause, or the sponsoring parish. Offerings are made as an expression of faith and generosity and ultimately identified with Christ's self-offering for our salvation. See Alms; see Oblation; see Offertory, Offertory Procession, Offertory Sentence.