Southern Baptists topped the 2006 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering (LMCO) goal, delivering the largest gift in the offering’s 118-year history.
After the books closed May 31, the final tally hit $150,178,098.06, an 8.9 percent increase over last year’s $137.9 million.
Southern Baptists last exceeded their goal three years ago by giving more than $136.2 million to the 2003 offering after international missionary appointments lagged because of insufficient funds.
Jerry Rankin, president of the International Mission Board, credited Woman’s Missionary Union’s (WMU) support for contributing to the offering’s success.
“We are grateful for the partnership with WMU and their conscientious efforts in sponsoring and promoting the offering, as well as the personal sacrifice that gifts to the LMCO reflect in individuals throughout the convention.”
Wanda Lee, executive director of national WMU, added her appreciation to the faithful support of Southern Baptists.
“When WMU sets the [LMCO] goal each year, we recognize that it can only be attained when believers prayerfully consider the need and give sacrificially so that others may hear the name of Jesus.”
Since the offering began in 1888, the total amount received through 2006 has exceeded $2.8 billion. (BP)
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