What is Alabaster?
The Alabaster Offering provides funds for property and buildings
around the world. While we understand the church consists of the people of God
and not a building, buildings erected for the purpose of ministry help provide a
sense of permanence, functionally enhance ministry efforts, and convey an
attitude that the Church of the Nazarene intends to "put down roots." Alabaster
funds help provide land for many Work & Witness projects, and the entire
Alabaster Offering goes toward the purchase of land and construction of
churches, schools, medical facilities, and homes for missionaries and national
workers.
around the world. While we understand the church consists of the people of God
and not a building, buildings erected for the purpose of ministry help provide a
sense of permanence, functionally enhance ministry efforts, and convey an
attitude that the Church of the Nazarene intends to "put down roots." Alabaster
funds help provide land for many Work & Witness projects, and the entire
Alabaster Offering goes toward the purchase of land and construction of
churches, schools, medical facilities, and homes for missionaries and national
workers.
How are Alabaster Offerings Recieved?
The Alabaster Offering gets to the mission field via several
avenues. The most widely used is the Alabaster Box. Individuals are challenged
to regularly contribute the cost of items they desire but do not need. The boxes
also serve as reminders to pray for those people who will benefit from Alabaster
buildings.
In September and February, the money is collected. Sometimes a
"march offering" is received with individuals carrying their boxes to the front
of the church and pouring the money into a large offering container. The
way an offering is received is as varied as the world areas in which the Church
of the Nazarene has a presence; however, it is always accompanied with a spirit
of rejoicing.
Many churches receive regular offerings throughout the year
that are designated as Alabaster funds. (This is often a part of the Faith
Promise plan for missions giving.) However, the semi-annual offerings should
still be received, allowing opportunity for giving by those not participating in
other ways.
avenues. The most widely used is the Alabaster Box. Individuals are challenged
to regularly contribute the cost of items they desire but do not need. The boxes
also serve as reminders to pray for those people who will benefit from Alabaster
buildings.
In September and February, the money is collected. Sometimes a
"march offering" is received with individuals carrying their boxes to the front
of the church and pouring the money into a large offering container. The
way an offering is received is as varied as the world areas in which the Church
of the Nazarene has a presence; however, it is always accompanied with a spirit
of rejoicing.
Many churches receive regular offerings throughout the year
that are designated as Alabaster funds. (This is often a part of the Faith
Promise plan for missions giving.) However, the semi-annual offerings should
still be received, allowing opportunity for giving by those not participating in
other ways.