Help us grow our churches.
Become a Chalice Lighter.

Your gift of at least $15, twice a year, can make a difference. Every dollar goes toward strengthening Unitarian Universalist churches in the NH/ VT District. Your gift will help provide grants to congregations that have the potential and desire to grow.

Each contribution is important.
Your contribution is important.

 Every year Chalice Lighter grants are awarded to nurture and grow our congregations.

The funding for those grants comes from YOU.

Donor Form

The Chalice Lighter Fund stimulates the growth of selected Unitarian Universalist congregations. The Chalice Lighter Program began over 15 years ago and has spread throughout the continent as a tool for growth in many districts. Deane Starr, former NH/VT District Executive, was an especially enthusiastic supporter of this concept and likened it to the symbolism of carrying the torch of your own religious faith forward to bring light into dark places.

In the NH/VT District, two applications are funded each year, one in the fall and one in the spring. Grants are awarded to help build stronger congregations and to contribute to their growth. Grants may also be made to assist with unforeseen emergencies that might undermine an otherwise healthy congregation.

Since 1993, CHALICE LIGHTER GRANTS in our district have been awarded many times. Some recent recipients have been Derby Line,VT; Plymouth, NH; Rutland, VT; Milford, NH; and Bennington, VT, among others. Grants have been given for start-up activities, short-term ministerial needs, and one-time costs associated with growth.

Considerations given to each Chalice Lighter Fund grant application:

• Realistic goals for the future
• Long-range plans to achieve goals
• Commitment of financial support from the local congregation
• Demonstrated involvement with the NH/VT District and the UUA
• Demonstrated potential for growth
• Extent of the congregation’s support of the UUA’s Annual Fund Program

Why Become a Chalice Lighter?

• You want to help a new or expanding congregation grow.
• You want to feel that you are a nurturer of a free, liberal religious tradition.
• You want to do your part in spreading the UU experience.

Being a Chalice Lighter is making a commitment to Unitarian Universalism. We are now the keepers of a liberal religious tradition founded by those who wanted a religion free of narrow creeds and open to all individuals who wish to use reason and experience to build a personal faith. Helping a new UU congregation form, or an established one grow, is a visible commitment to this ideal.