PRIVACY POLICY

Last Updated: [December 2025]

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Aldersgate United Methodist Church (“Aldersgate,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) is committed to protecting the privacy of everyone who visits our website, interacts with our ministries, subscribes to communications, or participates in church activities. This Privacy Policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and how we work to keep your information safe.

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By using our website or submitting information to us, you agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy.

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1. Information We Collect

We collect information in the following ways:

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Information You Provide Directly

This may include:

• Name, email address, phone number, and mailing address

• Prayer requests or pastoral care inquiries

• Event registrations, volunteer forms, or facility requests

• Online giving or pledge information (processed through secure third-party providers)

• Connect Card submissions, both digital and in-person

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Information Collected Automatically

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When you visit our website, we may collect:

• Browser type, device information, and IP address

• Pages visited and time spent on the site

• Cookies or similar technologies used for basic site functionality

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We do not use advanced tracking, profiling, or advertising technologies.

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2. How We Use Your Information

We use personal information only for ministry and administrative purposes, including:

• Responding to questions, prayer requests, and pastoral care needs

• Registering you for events, classes, or volunteer opportunities

• Sending newsletters, updates, and church communications

• Processing online giving and financial contributions

• Improving website functionality and user experience

• Ensuring the safety and appropriate functioning of our ministries

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We do not sell or rent personal information to anyone.

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3. How We Share Information

We may share information in limited situations:

• Service Providers: Trusted third-party partners who help us operate our website, process online giving, or send newsletters (each bound by confidentiality and security requirements).

• Legal Requirements: If required by law, or if necessary to protect the safety of individuals or the church.

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We do not share information with commercial advertisers or external organizations for marketing.

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4. Online Giving and Financial Information

Online contributions are processed through secure third-party providers such as:

• Amplify Giving

• PayPal

These platforms manage financial data according to their own privacy and security practices. Aldersgate does not store or have access to full credit card or bank account numbers.

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5. Children’s Privacy

Protecting children is central to our mission.

• We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 without parental consent.

• Any information related to nursery, children’s ministry, or youth events is handled according to our Safe Sanctuaries Policy.

• Parents or guardians may request to review or delete their child’s information at any time.

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6. Cookies and Analytics

Our website uses cookies for:

• Essential site functions

• Basic analytics to understand general website usage

You can disable cookies in your browser settings, though some website features may not function properly.

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7. Your Privacy Choices

You may request to:

• Update or correct your personal information

• Unsubscribe from newsletters or emails

• Ask how your information has been used

• Request deletion of personal information when applicable

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To make a request, contact the church office.

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8. Data Security

We take reasonable steps to protect personal information from loss, misuse, or unauthorized access.

Security measures include:

• Secure hosting

• Password-protected systems

• Limited access to sensitive information

• Staff and volunteer confidentiality expectations, supported by Safe Sanctuaries guidelines

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No system is completely risk-free, but we work diligently to safeguard your information.

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9. Links to External Sites

Our website may include links to partner ministries, United Methodist Church resources, or third-party tools. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those websites. We encourage you to read their policies as well.

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10. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this policy as our ministries or website evolve. The “Last Updated” date will always reflect the most recent revision.

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11. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or wish to update or manage your personal information, please contact:

Aldersgate United Methodist Church
12901 Bailey Cove Rd
Huntsville, AL 35803
Phone: 256-883-9062
Email: jjohnson@aldersgatehsv.com

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We are honored to serve you and are committed to protecting your privacy with care and integrity.