As the year winds to a close, the Presbyterian Mission Agency has received its second $1 million anonymous gift in 2013.

In keeping with the donor’s request, this gift will be directed toward the agency’s ministries within the United States. The earlier gift had been designated for international mission.

 “Our hearts are full of gratitude for this generous gift,” said Linda Valentine, executive director of the Presbyterian Mission Agency. “It will greatly strengthen our efforts as we work alongside presbyteries and congregations to equip transformational leaders, nurture compassionate and prophetic discipleship, encourage new worshiping communities, and affirm the giftedness of young adults.”

 “At the Presbyterian Mission Agency, we seek to inspire, equip, and connect Presbyterians to serve Christ the world,” Valentine said. “Gifts of all sizes enable this to happen, and we are grateful for every dollar we receive. We hope other Presbyterians will consider year-end gifts to the Presbyterian Mission Agency, too.”

Gifts can be made online (www.presbyterianmission.org/donate) or by calling 800-872-3283.

A $1 million gift received for domestic ministries last year enabled the Presbyterian Mission Agency to increase funding for U.S.-based Young Adult Volunteers, expand racial/ethnic ministries aimed at leadership development and church growth, and help launch the UKirk network, a group that assists Presbyterian congregations in their outreach to college students.

Valentine said this year’s $1 million gift will also help start or expand innovative ministries. “We have many dreams and ideas for how this unexpected gift can be used to share the love of Christ, and early in the new year we will make specific plans for how it will be used.”