The Christmas Fund for Those Who Serve
Support for the Christmas fund delivers year-round care and gratitude for ministry servants.
A Church Wide Mission of Care Includes Support for Ministry Servants
As part of Our Church’s Wider Mission, The Christmas Fund provides year‑round financial support and seasonal expressions of gratitude to UCC ministers, church workers, and their families—ensuring they are supported physically, financially, and spiritually when they need it most.
The Christmas Fund
The Christmas Fund
For more than 100 years, The Christmas Fund has been a trusted ministry of care within the United Church of Christ. As one of the UCC’s five Special Mission Offerings, it reflects our shared commitment to stand with those who serve God’s people—especially during times of transition, hardship, or unexpected need.
Through the generosity of individuals and congregations across the UCC, The Christmas Fund offers consistent, compassionate support and annual Christmas gift checks. It is a tangible expression of gratitude and covenant—rooted in faith and sustained by community.
How the Christmas Fund Helps
Gifts to The Christmas Fund provide meaningful support through:
- Assistance during times of crisis or financial strain
- Support that promotes stability, dignity, and well being
- Christmas “Thank You” checks that affirm recipients are seen, valued, and remembered
Together, these expressions of care strengthen the physical, financial, and spiritual well being of those who have devoted their lives to serving the church.
Why People Give
Donors support The Christmas Fund because they believe:
- Those who serve the church should never face hardship alone
- Gratitude is a vital expression of faithful stewardship
- A caring church looks after its own across every season
Every gift becomes part of a circle of care—connecting generations through compassion, trust, and shared faith.
Why Churches Support the Christmas Fund
Congregations across the UCC receive The Christmas Fund Offering as a way to live out their call to love and care for neighbors—beginning within the church itself. By participating, churches:
- Join a church-wide mission that crosses geography and circumstance
- Offer members a meaningful opportunity to give with purpose and gratitude
- Affirm the value of ministry and those who faithfully answer its call
Supporting The Christmas Fund is more than an offering—it is a collective witness to who we are and how we care for one another.
Explore additional offerings that support a strong foundation for ministry service.
Philanthropy Partnerships
Partner programs and solutions are available for UCC organizations to help ministries thrive today and build a strong foundation for tomorrow.
Investing with Intention
Guided by UCC values, our investment strategy emphasizes a commitment to uplift communities, protect creation, and promote human dignity.
Retired Servant Support
Retiree grant solutions provide continuity, care, and peace of mind across seasons of retirement to honor a lifetime of service.
Need help? Prefer to talk with us? Let’s connect.
CALL USThe Christmas Fund is more than an offering—it’s a lifeline for retired clergy and church workers who face financial challenges. When we give, we affirm that ministry is a shared calling and that no one should be left behind after years of service.Rev. William Falla
Ministry Encounters Inspire and Equip
Planning For Tomorrow
5 min read
Finding the UCC: A Story of Gratitude and Giving Through The Christmas Fund
In 1977, Sharon Chace’s husband Ernest (Ernie) faced a difficult transition—he needed to resign from ministry. Financial support from The Christmas Fund provided Ernie with a new job-hunting suit to wear during interviews.
Planning For Tomorrow
4 min read
The Heart of Giving—Benevolence and The Christmas Fund
Rev. William Falla, a retired pastor serving St. John’s United Church of Christ in Allentown, PA, shares about the importance of benevolence and giving to The Christmas Fund.
Answering The Call
8 min read
Serving Faithfully, Supported Generously: The Gift of The Christmas Fund in Retirement
The Rev. Joan Smith, a retired UCC minister, discusses her passionate call to serve and the positive impact of The Christmas Fund and Annuitant Visitor Program.