And finally… Kirk goes contactless

Kirk officials say they are keen to show people how terminals could make donating faster and easier in what is increasingly becoming a cashless age.

One minister, who has embraced digital giving with great aplomb, described it as the “way forward”.

Different vendors provide contactless payment technology but Kirk officials are recommending GoodBox, a company that specialises in supplying charities with technology.

One of the devices available is small enough to sit in a brass collection plate which gives parishioners the option of making a cashless donation or drop in notes and coins.

National Stewardship co-ordinator, David Lynch, described the GoodPlate as a “game changer”.

He and his team are showcasing GoodBox devices at the General Assembly’s Heart & Soul festival in Princes Street Gardens on Sunday.

Mr Lynch said: “Digital giving shows that the Church is willing and able to embrace modern technology and it recognises that we are living in changing times.

“It fully understands the need to look at new and emerging methods of income generation.”

Mr Lynch said the number of people who do not carry cash is ever increasing.

“The purpose of encouraging congregations to adopt a system is to provide those people looking to donate with the widest possible options,” he explained.

“They could be one off visitors to services, event attendees, tourists or regular church members who have moved to a cashless lifestyle.

“It will also give congregations the option of a new portal of income generation for events and hall rentals.”