Many churches, both Protestant and Catholic, are beginning to conduct commercial enterprises in the church to help raise money. Some churches have installed Starbucks, Subway, McDonald's, or other fast-food type ventures inside the church building in order to raise funds for the church coffers. Even more churches have begun leasing out their steeples for cell-phone tower usage. Companies like Verizon install their cell tower technology inside the church steeple rather than erecting a tower for the purpose. These companies pay the church as much as $10,000 each year in rental fees. Some parishioners are displeased with the idea of commercializing the church building while others see the move as good business practice. It seems the issue has become whether the church should be 'of the world' or 'apart from the world.' I have a feeling this type of enterprise will become (or continue to be) a significant issue for many church congregations from this point forward. Read an interesting overview of the positions and ongoing commercial activities at the CSMonitor.
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Monster,
Do you think that such a commercial arrangement would encourage or discourage someone to attend a church? Your experience with organized religion is somewhat unique, in my opinion. Is it better to attract new members with 'honey' or with 'vinegar'?
I agree with your assessment that allowing community groups or families to rent the church or facilities for events and gatherings are completely different from a 'for-profit' venture like Subway or Starbucks. I think your mention of church non-profit status is also important in the consideration of this issue.
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