Simon Jones training people at the digital giving training session.
Churches across the diocese are seeing the benefits of receiving free digital giving devices.
Seven years ago, in 2017, debit card transactions overtook cash payments for the first time in the UK. The covid-19 pandemic further caused pash payments to fall as many physical stores were closed and there were concerns over virus transmission through cash. It was clear that the ability to be able to accept digital donations would be key for churches for years to come. That’s why in 2022 the Church of England’s National Giving Team embarked on a three-year project to help thousands more churches get started with digital giving.
In March this year, our diocese was pleased to take part in the digital rollout. 38 churches in our diocese were successful in their application to receive a free digital giving device. Most of these devices were given out at a collection and training session held over two days in early July.
After a short while, a survey was sent out to the churches to find out how they were getting on with their new giving device. The majority of responses showed that people were very happy with the training provided and felt confident using their device. One response said, “We are over the moon with our free machine & the training/service provided. THANK YOU to all the digital giving team who helped make this possible”. For the minority who were feeling underconfident or reported issues with their devices, more training and support was given, and ongoing support is offered to all with digital giving devices.
Setting up the digital giving device at Coventry Cathedral
Simon Jones, Diocesan Stewardship Advisor, said:
“We celebrate as 38 churches within the Coventry Diocese explore generous giving using digital technology. It is comforting to see churches thrive as they embrace the future; I feel blessed to lead this project. It is great to know we are supporting parishes in Coventry Diocese, stimulating the generosity aspect of our discipleship, enabling fresh financial support to the mission and ministry of those churches.”
Although the digital giving scheme has ended, if you think you might benefit from a digital giving device, please email Simon Jones, simon.jones@coventry.anglican.org, who can provide you with information and support in your digital journey.