Toolbox For Faith

Several years ago, St. Michael added the ability to receive online donations to our website. At the time, we were one of the few congregations I could find with an integrated donation section on our site. Over time, we have developed a small, but significant percentage of the congregation which makes use of this online giving option. In addition, we have several people who make donations through their online banking services. During an average week, we receive between 10% and 20% of our weekly offerings through online giving.

For years, congregations have tried to make it easier for people to give - offering plates, coin boxes, offering envelopes, and mailed offering envelopes. Since many people are paid electronically and pay all of their bills electronically, I seems reasonable to assume that the percentage of people giving electronically will continue to increase. If congregations want to continue to make it easy for people to support their ministry, then before long, an online giving option will probably be a necessity for most congregations.