Giving in Digital Times

As states are recommending or asking churches to take a break from in-person services and large gatherings, ministry leaders are wondering what impact this change will have on their day-to-day operations. How will it affect the tithes and offerings that keep ministries open to serve their communities, especially in this stressful time of the coronavirus pandemic?

Here are a few options that could help shrink the gap in giving:

The simplest option to address tithe and offering during a season without physical gatherings is online giving.

Platforms dedicated to church – such as the Subsplash – exist to provide a safe, secure, digital space for giving. The platforms also include giving by text, which is something churches can incorporate later when they are meeting in-person again. Facebook also offers online giving. Encouraging congregants to give digitally saves time and ensures your people have ample opportunity to support your ministry, whether they attend in-person or online. Be sure to ask the provider about their privacy and security measures before making your decision to add online tools. 

For churches with members who are unable to give online, here are a few other ideas (note shelter in place orders for your community could affect timing on being able to do some of these suggestions:

• Set up a secure lockbox on your church campus where congregants can drop off their tithes and offerings in a sealed envelope throughout the week.
• If your church office will remain open, encourage congregants to drop off at the office (remember to use social distancing measures).
• Some churches may still be open for small gatherings, you can encourage giving then.
• Congregants can mail their gift to the church. 

Remember - if you are going to collect donations or tithes on premises to follow appropriate risk management practices. Get started with the Offerings & Disbursements checklist

Regardless of which option you choose, if you are handling physical checks or paper money, make sure to wear gloves and wash your hands immediately after.

Resources

• Subsplash Platform https://pi.subsplash.com/
• Facebook – Fundraisers and Donations https://www.facebook.com/help/1640008462980459
• In-Person Services Cancelled: Taking the Gospel Online https://www.brotherhoodmutual.com/resources/safety-library/risk-management-articles/disasters-emergencies-and-health/general-health-and-injury-prevention/coronavirus-gospel-online/