Our Stories

Holiday Gift Guide: Supporting Missionaries who are overseas for the holidays

October 30th, 2025

“I’ll be home for Christmas…” But what is home to a missionary who has dedicated their life to embracing and investing in a new culture to share the love of Christ?

The holiday season can be a beautiful time of ministry, blending cherished traditions from home with the joy of learning what makes the holidays special in another culture.

However, holidays are also most often the time when missionaries experience the most homesickness – missing time spent with family and their home church and being far from the traditions and rhythms that always made the holidays feel special.

That’s why this time of year offers a meaningful opportunity for supporters to encourage and care for the missionaries they’ve sent. Whether it’s adding them to your Christmas card list, sending a thoughtful care package, or finding another creative way to bless them, your effort can make a lasting impact.

And a quick note: while surprises can be fun, they can also create challenges when navigating overseas shipping and logistics. Whenever possible, check with your missionary about the best way to send items—or simply ask what they might need or appreciate most. They’ll be grateful to hear from you!

Scroll below to see some ideas of gifts missionaries might appreciate!

With holiday cheer,

The SAM Communications Team

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