As Christmas approaches, Christians prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ—the ultimate gift of love and salvation. This sacred season is not only a time for reflection, but also a powerful call to live out faith through generosity.
For Christian nonprofits, Christmas offers a unique opportunity to inspire year-end giving and rally support for missions that bring hope and healing to the world.
Why Christmas inspires generosity
“On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” Matthew 2:11
Christmas embodies the message of giving. God’s gift of His Son, the sacrificial love of Jesus, and the story of the wise men offering their treasures all remind us of the joy that comes from sharing blessings. This deep spiritual significance makes Christmas an ideal time to encourage supporters to give generously in support of your mission.
Year-end giving also aligns with practical motivations, as many individuals seek to maximize their impact before the close of the calendar year. By connecting the spiritual meaning of Christmas with tangible ways to give, your organization can meet its goals while strengthening donor relationships.
Ways to engage supporters during Christmas
To inspire impactful giving, Christian churches, schools and other nonprofits can incorporate the Christmas message into their outreach. Here are key strategies:
Share stories of hope and transformation: Personal stories resonate deeply, especially when they reflect the themes of Christmas. Highlight the people your organization has touched, drawing a parallel to the hope brought by Christ’s birth.
Infuse spiritual reflection and gratitude: Incorporate scripture and reflections on the Christmas story into your appeals. Pair these with heartfelt gratitude for the donors who make your work possible.
Create a Christmas giving appeal: Launch a special fundraising appeal inspired by the themes of Christmas. Whether it’s a “Gifts of Hope” campaign or an initiative to meet specific needs by the end of the year, a focused appeal can help donors feel part of something meaningful. Use storytelling, visuals, and online platforms to amplify your message.
Highlight the impact of legacy giving: Christmas is a time of reflection, and many people consider how they can leave a lasting legacy. Encourage donors to include your organization in their estate plans or make a major gift that aligns with their values. Emphasize how their support will make an eternal impact.
Foster connection through community: Invite supporters to engage beyond financial giving. Create a focus on events like Christmas worship nights, service opportunities or community outreach projects. These experiences help donors see the tangible impact of your mission and deepen their connection to your cause.
Living Out the Mission of Christ
As a Christian nonprofit, your work reflects the heart of the gospel: to love God and serve others. By embracing the spirit of Christmas, you can invite supporters to join you in making a difference. Let this season of giving be a time to glorify God, bless others, and carry out His mission with renewed purpose.
