Alabaster funds are to be used for new churches to:
    •    Purchase a property or church building
    •    Purchase or build a church parsonage
    •    Build a church building
    •    Conversion of a property into a church gathering space
    •    Meet initial costs for renting a church meeting space for a limited period
 
Alabaster funds may also be used to:
    •    Purchase or build missionary homes
    •    Purchase or build regional or field missions facilities
    •    Build or repurpose buildings on Bible college campuses

In September and February, the money is collected. Many churches receive regular offerings throughout the year that are designated as Alabaster funds. (This is often a part of the Faith Promise plan for missions giving.) However, the semi-annual offerings in September and February are tradition in the Church of the Nazarene.