Chalice Lighter Grants | Application | Become a Chalice Lighter | Worship Service Resources

The Chalice Lighter Program is a funding program of the Clara Barton District (CBD) that helps congregations to implement efforts for membership growth. It is a competitive grant program funded by “Chalice Lighter” donors.  The Chalice Lighter Committee with Board approval sets criteria for grant applications, notifies congregations about the program, reviews applications and awards grants. After grantees are chosen, the committee calls for monetary support from Chalice Lighters, collects donations, and assesses evaluations of recipient programs. Two to three grants are made per year. The 2008-2009 Chalice Lighter Annual Report  describes  specific awards made  this year and can be viewed at CL Report.

 The Benefits to congregations are unlimited! Here are some:

• Assist a congregation to obtain its first professional staff: Minister, Director of Religious Education, Minister of Religious Education
• Increase hours of staff from part time to full time
• Assist a new congregation to lease or obtain space for worship
• Assist a congregation with accessibility projects
• Remodel existing space to accommodate increased membership
• Assist a congregation to make major repairs due to fire, storm, or structural damage

A Chalice Lighter is an individual or a couple who, when asked, contributes funds for a specific grant in order to promote growth and extension within the Clara Barton District. The call is for a minimum of $20.00, up to three times each year.  If 10% of our district membership (700 members) would sign on as Chalice Lighters, at a minimum of $20.00 per call, the collection would be $14,000 for one grant and $42,000 for three grants!

To register your pledge, print and mail a pledge card. If you wish to make a payment with your pledge (instead of waiting until a call is issued), please send your check for $20 or more, payable to the Clara Barton District, (noted CL Pledge in the memo line), to the Clara Barton District, PO Box 368, Westford, MA  01886.  You may also use a credit card for your payment by calling the CBD Office at 978-392-6701 or send the information in to the same address.

For more information, please see our brochure (pdf or Word) and if you have any questions contact: