Monday, May 5, 2008

Admission charges for churches

An interesting question has arisen - should churches charge an entrance fee, as many churches in Europe do? Some are quite expensive ($10-$15/person). One of our recent visitors believes strongly that churches are houses of worship and as such should never charge admission. I see it differently - if I am using a church as a house of worship, then I agree that I should not be charged. And churches don't charge to attend services (or may have free entrance for residents of the diocese). If, however, I am using the church more as a museum (I want to see the architecture, the artwork within, climb the tower, etc.) then I think it's only fair that I pay for the privilege. What do you think?

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