We’re excited to share some updates about our church’s technology, which will help us stay connected, informed, and supported in new ways. Over the past few months, we’ve been working hard to upgrade our database and electronic giving systems. We’ve transitioned to a new platform called Planning Center Online (PCO), which will make our church communications, directory, and giving options simpler and more accessible.
Here are the three key updates that will affect you:
- Church App – We’re launching a new church app, available both on mobile devices and computers.
- Online Directory – Our directory will have a new look and will give you control over what contact information you’d like to share.
- Electronic Giving – We’re moving to a new, secure platform for online giving, making it easier to manage contributions.
Church App: Church Center
We’re thrilled to introduce the Church Center app, which will replace our current mobile app. This app is a significant upgrade, giving you easy access to church news, events, and resources right from your phone or computer. For those who prefer using a computer, the Church Center website version offers the same features as the mobile app.
- To get started with the new app on your mobile device:
- Once installed, open the app and search for “Fifth Reformed Church.”
- If you’re using a computer, simply visit:
- All of these options will also be available on the homepage of the church website.
Online Directory: Community, Secured
Our new online directory within Church Center lets members stay connected safely, as it’s only accessible to others within the church. You’ll receive an email invitation from Fifth Reformed Church to “Join the Directory.”
Once you accept the invitation, you’ll be guided through a quick setup process where you can decide what contact information you’d like to share. Rest assured, only church members will have access to this information, and you can update it anytime. If your whole family is listed in our directory, you’ll also be able to manage contact sharing for everyone in your household.
Electronic Giving: Moving to Stripe
As we transition to the Church Center platform, we’re updating our electronic giving system as well. Our current processor, PushPay, will no longer be active at the end of 2024, so we encourage you to make the switch to Stripe, which integrates directly with Church Center. Both the app and website will include a “Give” option, allowing you to easily make donations or set up recurring contributions.
Like our previous platform, Stripe ensures the highest level of security, with banking-level encryption protecting all your financial information.
Need Help? We’re Here for You!
We understand that changes in technology can be challenging, and we’re here to make this as easy as possible for everyone. If you’d like assistance setting up the new app, joining the directory, or switching to the new giving platform, our team is ready to help. We’ll be offering hands-on support after services over the coming weeks, and you’re always welcome to reach out to our Office Manager, Char Bulthuis, at (616) 245-9247 for additional assistance.
Thank you for your patience and openness as we move forward with these new tools to serve our community better. We’re excited to offer these resources and look forward to growing together!
