Digital Stewardship Takes a Beating, but Comes Out On Top

PHOENIX — A recent article in The Arizona Republic spotlighting “digital stewardship” – the growing trend of giving to the Church using debit/credit cards – is stirring up quite a bit of controversy among the newspaper’s readers. In the end, however, everyone agrees: debt is bad, but convenience is good.

While some denominations have strict limits on credit-card use and require the balance be paid every month, others worry givers will go into debt making their contributions.

At Christ’s Church of the Valley (CCV) in Phoenix, for instance — a congregation known statewide for its innovativeness and success in attracting seekers — pastors won’t let members charge their donations at all, but they do embrace automated electronic giving using debit cards. In fact, Jon Edmiston, director of information technology/ communications for CCV, says debits now represent about 35 percent of the church’s contributions.

Other supporters point out that debit payments are handy tools that reflect consumer preferences. This includes convenience, since a growing percentage of the population doesn’t carry cash or checks.

Add to this streamlined record-keeping for the churches, which eliminates the need to mess with envelopes, process checks or handle cash; and handy record-keeping for income-tax purposes; and givers and churches alike agree on the benefits.

“This is just an evolution of our financial system,” theorizes Pastor Marty Baker of Stevens Creek Church in Augusta, Ga. “Our Church is all about breaking down barriers and connecting with the popular culture.”

A Debate Ensues

When the article, “Digital Stewardship: More of the faithful give through the Internet, donate with plastic,” debuted online, the reactions were mixed.

I think using the debit or credit card is fine,” says user Mary5249. “We are all adults and should be able to choose.”

Poster Margie401 agrees, saying online giving with a debit card is convenient and consistent. “I do believe churches need to stay connected to the needs of people in the current age — to stay relevant,” she adds.

And Rhonda3441 argues that debit cards and debt are two different things. “I use plastic for most of my purchases,” she argues. “I’m not going into debt; it’s a debit card, and it’s a whole lot more convenient than writing checks.”

Of course, the naysayers have their take on it as well. Tom6125 laments that his church is considering installing small credit/debit machines in the pews. “’Would you like a soul wash with that offering?’” he asks, exasperated.

And one poster, Ben669s, offers a new perspective. “The entire idea of tithing and giving to the Church is based on what you have and earn, not going into debt to pay now,” he says. “If you can’t afford to pay now, then turn off the Internet or the cable. Giving to the Church is much more important than the luxuries we ‘can’t live without.’”

For the whole story, log on to www.azcentral.com, keyword: digital stewardship.