FAQs

What methods of payment are accepted online?

We accept online donations by credit/debit card and electronic transfer. We encourage the use of electronic funds transfer for two reasons: 1) Although many pay the full balance of their credit card monthly, some do not, and we in no way want to encourage debt. 2) With electronic transfer your entire gift goes to the church. When using a credit card, as much as 3% of your gift may go to the credit card company through fees charged to the church.

What is a “Planning Center” account?

Planning Center is our secure giving platform. You DO NOT need to have an account to give but by creating a “Church Center” account you will be able to manage payment methods, edit reoccurring donations, and view statements of your giving at anytime. Click here to create a Church Center Account.

Can I set up recurring donations?

Yes! When giving click “Give Multiple Times” and choose how often you would like to give, and the date of your first gift. You can edit your reoccurring donations at anytime through a Church Center account.

Is it safe to give online?

Giving online is just as safe, if not safer than writing a check. An electronic gift cannot be lost, destroyed, or stolen. The Church DOES NOT receive any account numbers and be assured that your contact information will remain private. The Church will never call you to ask for your log-in information.

How long will it take for you to process my donation?

Please allow one week for all donation to clear your account and appear on your giving statement. If you do not see that it has gone through after one week, please contact us.

Can I review my donation history online?

By creating a Church Center account you will have access to view and print your giving statements at any time online.

If I give to the church, will I receive a tax receipt?

Every donation is recorded in our financial database. If you make a tax-deductible contribution to the church, we will send you a quarterly giving report as well as a year-end statement. Statements are mailed to the address on file in January. To ensure that you receive your statements verify that your address is always up to date in your Church Center account or call the accounting office.

Are there other ways to give?

Corporate Matching - Did you know some employers will match your contributions to charitable organizations? Charitable Gift Matching doubles your giving impact! Some corporations are already participating. Ask your Human Resources representative if your employer has a program.

Non-Cash Gifts - If you’d like to discuss a possible non-cash gift such as real estate, stocks, or bonds, please contact our Accounting Office at accounting@connection-church.org.

How can I learn more about growing in generosity?

There are some amazing books out there for further study on the Biblical principles of giving. A few we recommend are “The Generosity Ladder” by Nelson Searcy, “The Treasure Principle” by Randy Alcorn, and “Plastic Donuts” by Jeff Anderson.

What are the church’s financial practices?

God provides for the ministry of The Church through your tithes and offerings. We honor your gifts with faithful stewardship, ethical business practices, and full accountability so that the financial integrity of The Church remains beyond reproach. Here are a few of the practices we have in place:

  • Separation of Duties

  • Regular Budget to Actual Analysis

  • Designated Gifts used as Indicated

  • Annual Spending Plan approved by Board of Directors

  • Monthly Review & Report to Board of Directors

  • Annual Financial Report to Membership

For general questions about our financial practices, contact the accounting office or Pastor Tim Westerfield, Executive Pastor.

Who do I contact if I have questions or forget my Church Center password?

The accounting office is open Monday - Friday, 9am - 4pm. accounting@connection-church.org