Donations from both congregation and community members are what enable us to carry out our mission and provide you with an experience that will lead you to growth in your relationship to God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit that acts within you. There are lots of options for donating.
Where is the collection plate?
Since many of our regular donors contribute through PAR (see below), we do not pass an offering plate during the worship service, as is customary in many churches. Instead, a donation box is located at the entrance to the sanctuary, which you will pass as you leave.
If you would like to make a donation, envelopes are available beside the donation box for those who wish to include their name and donation amount. You may also donate using the QR code displayed next to the box.
You may also give anonymously. Whether you choose to give in person, electronically, or anonymously, your generosity and support are greatly appreciated.
I want to become a regular supporter. What is the best way to do this?
You may also give by cheque or through Pre-Authorized Remittance (PAR), an automatic monthly withdrawal from your bank account. PAR is administered by the United Church of Canada and carries only a very small processing fee for Lynn Valley United Church, significantly lower than the fees associated with credit card donations and many other payment providers.
The LVUC Donations Manager would be happy to help you set up PAR. Once its established, your contribution will be made automatically each month, and you may change or cancel it at any time by notifying the Donations Manager before the 10th of the month.
How much should I give?
There is no right or wrong answer to this question. Many members find that their giving grows over time as their connection to and commitment to the church deepen.
We do not expect our visitors to give, but any offering is sincerely appreciated and it lets us know that you value the ministry and community we share. Ultimately, each person decides if, when, where, and how much they want to give. We are grateful for every contribution, whatever form it may take.
What if I want to give but have no cash with me?
You may donate by tapping your credit card using the Square reader, and a member of our staff will be happy to assist you if needed.
You can also make a secure online donation through the Lynn Valley United Church website using the donation link provided here or on the home page. For added convenience, you may also use the QR code displayed next to the Square reader to access the online donation page directly.
Can I designate money for a specific purpose?
You may choose to direct your donation toward specific programs, ministries, or fundraising projects. We also invite you to support both the United Church of Canada’s Mission and Service Fund and the ongoing ministry and work of Lynn Valley United Church.
Unless a donation is designated for a particular purpose, it will be used to support the general ministry and operations of LVUC, helping us continue our work in the church and the wider community.
Can I get a tax receipt for my donations?
Lynn Valley United Church is a registered charity, and donations may be eligible for a charitable tax credit in accordance with Canada Revenue Agency guidelines.
If you provide your contact information by completing a donation envelope, setting up PAR, or through another method, and your total donations for the calendar year are $25 or more, LVUC will issue a charitable tax receipt by the end of February of the following year.
If you make your donation online through Tithe.ly or CanadaHelps, that organization will provide your tax receipt directly.
What happens to my financial information? Am I put on a mailing list? Do you trade information with other organizations?
Never. Your personal and financial information is used only for the purposes for which it is collected. We do not share your information with other organizations except as required for tax purposes or with your explicit consent.
If you would like to stay informed about church activities and events, you may request to be added to our E-News mailing list at any time.