The Vine Lutheran Church
Effective Date: February 1, 2026
Who We Are
The Vine Lutheran Church (“The Vine,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) operates the website https://vinelutheran.com (the “Site”). We value your trust and are committed to respecting your privacy.
This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and the choices you have.
Information We Collect
Information You Provide
We collect information you voluntarily provide when you:
- submit a contact form
- reach out for information or follow-up
- communicate with us by email or text
- give online
This may include your name, email address, phone number, or other information you choose to share. While our forms do not request sensitive personal information, we understand that some messages (such as prayer requests) may include personal details.
Donations
Online donations are processed securely through Tithe.ly, a third-party service provider. We do not store or process your payment information directly. Donation data is subject to Tithe.ly’s own privacy and security practices.
Information Collected Automatically
When you visit the Site, limited technical information may be collected automatically, such as:
- IP address
- browser type
- device type
- pages visited and time spent on the Site
This information helps us understand how the Site is used and improve it.
Cookies & Analytics
We use cookies and similar technologies to support basic site functionality and understand site traffic.
Our Site uses Google Analytics 4 (GA4) to collect anonymous usage data, such as pages visited and general geographic location. This information does not personally identify you.
You can control or disable cookies through your browser settings.
How We Use Your Information
We use information collected to:
- respond to inquiries or requests
- communicate about church events, ministries, or updates
- send text communications when you have opted in (via ExpertTexting)
- process donations through trusted providers
- improve our website and communications
- meet legal or administrative requirements
We do not sell or rent personal information.
Text Messaging (ExpertTexting)
We use ExpertTexting to send occasional text messages related to church communication. Participation is optional, and you may opt out at any time by following the instructions included in the message.
Advertising
From time to time, we may run paid advertisements on social media platforms such as Facebook. These platforms may use their own cookies or tracking technologies according to their privacy policies. We do not receive personal identifying information from these platforms.
Sharing of Information
We may share information only:
- with trusted service providers who help operate our website, donations, or communications
- when required by law
- to protect the safety and rights of individuals or the church
Any service providers we use are expected to handle information responsibly.
Third-Party Links
Our Site may include links to third-party websites or services (such as Google Forms or Tithe.ly). We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those sites and encourage you to review their policies.
Children’s Privacy
Our Site is not directed toward children under 13, and we do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you believe a child has submitted personal information through our Site, please contact us and we will promptly remove it.
Data Security
We take reasonable steps to protect personal information shared with us. However, no online system can be guaranteed to be completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.
Your Choices & Rights
You may:
- request access to or correction of your information
- request deletion of your information
- opt out of communications at any time
To do so, please contact us using the information below.
Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. Any updates will be posted on this page with a revised effective date.
Contact Us
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact:
The Vine Lutheran Church
2722 S Main, Suite C
Joplin, MO 64804
vinelutheran@gmail.com