By Ronald Kelly
American Express credit cards can now be used for contributions to the Worldwide Church of God.
In the past three years, the church has accepted VISA, MasterCard and Discover cards. We have received a number of requests to add American Express as an option. We are pleased to now offer donations by the American Express card (and any card that American Express offers, such as Optima, SkyMiles, Green, Gold and Platinum cards).
When we print our next order of donation envelopes, the American Express card will be listed as an option.
In the meantime, should you choose to use this card, simply write it in an open space and write your card number in the appropriate space. Don't forget to include the expiration date and your signature.
Write in the desired monthly offering and it will be automatically charged to your card on the 20th of each month.
Of course many of you may prefer to contribute by writing a check each pay period or with whatever regular frequency you choose. Whatever method you choose, your offerings are appreciated beyond our words to describe.
Donating by credit card has several advantages. The church desires to process donations as conveniently as possible for members. Using a credit card means that monthly donations are automatically credited to the church funds. This means no checks to write or envelopes to mail, and no mental notes to write a check. Donations are made automatically by your credit card of choice.
Besides the convenience, many credit card agencies offer a wide range of incentives. For instance, Discover gives back a percentage of the money spent using its card. Some major airlines offer frequent flyer miles with VISA or MasterCard.
Delta Air Lines offers mileage accumulation through Delta SkyMiles Optima cards. American Express also has its own membership rewards program with a variety of award incentives.
Most major hotel chains participate in card reward programs for frequent stays. Some cards allow accumulation value toward the purchase of a new car.
Should you choose to participate in a credit card affinity program, we encourage you to carefully study each program's value to you and your family. And be aware that using your credit card and not paying your balance in full every month could lead to interest charges that are more costly than any benefits are worth.
We are grateful to God for each of you and appreciate the opportunity to serve you.
Copyright © Worldwide Church of God, 1998