The ATM
Today, I did something that I had not done in over two years - I actually went inside the TOAD. A true saint had passed on and I was there for her memorial service. However, upon entering this edifice I noticed that off to the right of the entrance was an ATM machine - I have heard the jokes about ATM's in church but had never actually encountered one. This was somewhat of a surprise knowing, as I do, the extremely conservative nature of a large segment of the congregation.
I suppose an ATM would make it easier to put money in the collection plate, however, I am not too sure as to the theological implications here. Didn't Christ drive out the money changers and merchants from the Temple? Oh, and just across the lobby (or would it be a narthex) from the ATM was the church coffee house offering coffees, pastries and other assorted goodies as well as an assortment of books, tapes and T-shirts.
I am interested in comment and commentary from some of you more advanced theologial minds such as Br. Snuffy, Br. Scott, Fr. Mski, Sister Moitle, JessnbeckahsMom, Joanne, and anyone else who has a thought or theological insight to impart.
posted by Recovering4Sqr | 9:47 PM
5 Comments:
Very interesting. This needs a little bit of thought before answering. It could be some great material here.
OK, here are my thoughts. I think this is good. If you have the ATM right there, you can sell a number of things to support the church's building fund. Here are some ideas for us:
1. Blankets - for when the sanctuary is too cold, especially in the summer when the a/c is blowing.
2. Fans - for the opposite problem.
3. Earplugs - for those who prefer the music softer.
4. Amplifiers - for those of us who prefer the music louder.
5. "Doug Jones Experience" t-shirts.
6. Coffee. For when the sermon is a little long.
7. Trail mix. For sustenance when the service is a little long.
8. High energy carbohydrate gels. For doing all of the kneeling and standing.
9. Reading glasses. For when the type on the bulletins and liturgies are too small.
10. Duct tape. For the Mski babies who can't stop talking/whispering/complaining/crying during the service.
I think the ATM and Coffee House speak for themselves as to where the priorities lie.
Moses was asked to remove his shoes because he stood on Holy Ground. Here, it seems the cafe workers are standing on holy grounds.
Well, I am not quite so witty as my counterparts. However, I don't think it appropriate to serve food and drink and have an atm at church. Is there not someplace else to conduct business? And is it for profit or not for profit (SOMEBODY makes a profit on everything, don't they?) To me, it doesn't seem like the right place to have these things, but that's just me.
we are way ahead of that little ATM venture, because if you want to go to where the REAL money is, a church needs slot machines.
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