Donations
Donations from both congregation and community members are what enable us to carry out our mission and provide you with an experience that leads you to growth in your relationship to God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit that acts within you. We give you lots of options about how to give.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Where is the Collection Plate?
Since many of our regular donors are on PAR, (see below), an offering plate is not passed around during the worship service as is customary in many churches. Instead, a Donations Box is placed at the entrance to the sanctuary where you will pass it on the way out. There are envelopes next to the Donations Box on which you may add your name and the amount you wish to donate, or you may choose to use the QR code which is visible next to the Donation box. You may also give anonymously.
How much should I give?
There is no right or wrong answer to this question. Many places of worship and faith traditions recommend that their members give a tithe of 10% of all income. The amount is less important than the fact that your church contribution comes “off the top”; it is not “what is left over”. Members often find that their giving increases over time as their commitment to the church grows. There are no expectations on our visitors to give but your offerings are appreciated and tell us that you value what we do. It is up to our members and visitors to decide when what, where, and how to give if they are so inclined.
What if I want to give but have no cash with me?
You can tap your credit card using the Square reader. One of the staff can assist you. Or you can go to the Lynn Valley United Church website and use this Link or the one on the home page to donate online in a secure environment. (Note: You do not have to “set up an account” with Tithe.ly unless you want to avoid entering your credit card information each time.)
I want to become a regular supporter. What is the best way to do this?
You can give by cheque or by using Pre-Authorized Remittance (PAR), a regular automatic deduction from your bank account. This is managed by the United Church of Canada and LVUC is charged a very small fee, substantially less than charged by credit card or through other providers. The LVUC Donations Manager is happy to set this up for you. It can be cancelled anytime by notifying the Donations Manager by the 10th of the month.
Can I give designate money for a specific purpose?
You can give in support of specific programs or fundraising projects. You are invited to give to the United Church of Canada Mission and Service Fund as well as for local support of LVUC. Donations that are not designated for a specific purpose or program are allocated to general support of LVUC.
What is the Mission and Service Fund?
This is how the United Church reaches out beyond the congregational level. Globally it works through local partners on urgent issues such as food, water, health, education, and human rights. In Canada, it supports ministries that serve Canadians living on the margins. It supports theological education and the development of lay leadership, such as church camps. You can find out more through the UCC resources here.
Can I get a tax receipt for my donations?
Lynn Valley United Church is a registered charity so donations may be deducted in accordance with Canada Revenue Agency rules. If you provide your mailing information (by completing an envelope or setting up
PAR or otherwise), and your donations in the calendar year are at least $25, LVUC will send you a tax receipt by the end of February in the following year. If you donate online through Tithe.ly or Canada Helps, that organization is responsible for sending your receipt.
What happens to my financial information? Am I put on a mailing list? Do you trade information with other organizations?
NO! Your personal and financial information is used only for the purposes for which it is collected. We do not provide information to other organizations except for tax purposes or with your consent. You can be added to our mailing list for E-News on request.
Who do I turn to if I have a problem?
The Office Manager is Moana Hartigan. She is available at the church office 604-987-2114 or by email to office@lynnvalleychurch.com on her working days.