I know of other churches that do this, but Tim Stevens blogged about the decision his church made to put “giving kiosks” in their church building. I will say that my reaction to these “money machines” in a church building has always negative, bordering on disdainful.
What do you think?
Take a minute and read what Tim says about the reasons their church did this. He points out the low percentage of people under age 40 that carry cash. If they desire to participate in worship through giving, is the “giving kiosk” simply a natural, culturally-responsive solution? Does this kind of giving present any problems that you see?
Bottom-line question I’m wrestling with: does it promote a giving response (and a spirit of giving) consistent with what we see in the New Testament church?
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{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
Wayne, we have a giving kiosk. Users simply print another receipt and enclose it in the giving envelope and put it in the offering plate. I think it’s great.
As a society, we continue to inch ever closer to a cashless environment. I have been conducting research during the McDonald’s drive thur each morning (Large half and half Tea) and noticed that about only about one in five cars pay with actual cash. Two issues with my study – the drive thru only allows me to see about five cars at a time and age does not allow my eyesight to see if it is credit or debit.
Since this is such a strong movement, and as long as it is a cash transaction and does not allow for someone to use a credit card, I feel it should be an option.
Whats next? Direct withdrawal contracts for our tithing? Actually bad idea because it opens the door to abuse, maybe not your church but others, giving needs to be anonymous………………………..
Pete – thanks for sharing your observations. I thought that was a pretty scientific survey!!
So, for you, it’s ok as long as it’s “debit cards”? Am I reading you right?
Russ – is your church using a machine that allows credit and debit cards? Where you there on staff when y’all first started using the kiosks? I’m curious what the decision and subsequent transition was like …?
Wayne – You are reading me correct. I cannot tell you the last time I have written a check. We pay almost all bills on-line and use the debit card for in store purchases. Many of the clients I met with are the same. On thing to think of instead of the kiosks is paypall type system for tithes and offering. I would not hesitate to take advantage of that option. I would be willing to say that by the time our sons are 30, the written check will no longer exist.