Alabaster Offering

Following the end of World War II, in the late 1940s, the Church of the Nazarene was experiencing a need for more missions funding. At a meeting of the Global NMI Council, Elizabeth Vennum was asked to find a way that could be used to raise funds for land purchases and building construction needs around the world. As she rode the train home from that council meeting, she said the Lord gave her the details for the Alabaster Offering.

The offering was based on the story of the woman pouring perfume on Jesus from a container carved from soft alabaster stone. Building on that biblical story, Nazarenes were asked to put off buying new perfume for themselves or postpone purchasing something for themselves, and to give that money in the Alabaster Offering instead.  In much the same way that the woman gave her bottle of perfume to Jesus, we have been called to pour out a lavish offering for others. Alabaster was first promoted using this phrase: “Give up a want to meet a need.”

Alabaster has long been a hallmark of Nazarene generosity and sacrifice, and continues to achieve great things, laying foundations where people worship, heal, and learn.

In preparation for Alabaster Offering that will be received in many congregations around the world in September, the following information and resources may prove helpful in promoting and receiving those sacrificial offerings.

Churches lay the foundation through Alabaster Offering for places where people worship, heal, and learn by encouraging global participation each year. Every Alabaster project grows from joint effort, love, and shared support of local contribution, bringing tangible presence and a sense of long-term commitment to a community. No Alabaster funds are used for administrative costs.