Privacy Policy

Effective Date:

Bostwick Lake Congregational UCC (“we,” “our,” or “us”) is committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, and safeguard your personal information when you visit our website (https://www.bostwicklakeucc.org), engage with our services, or communicate with us.

1. Information We Collect

We collect personal and non-personal information in the following ways:

A. Information You Provide to Us

  • When you submit forms (e.g., contact, prayer request, event registration, or newsletter signup).
  • When you make a donation or engage in online giving.
  • When you participate in church activities (e.g., volunteer sign-ups, membership inquiries).

B. Information We Collect Automatically

When you visit our website, we may automatically collect:

  • IP address
  • Browser type and device information
  • Pages visited and interaction data
  • Cookies and tracking technologies (see Section 4)

2. How We Use Your Information

We use your personal information for the following purposes:

  • To respond to inquiries and provide requested services.
  • To process donations and issue receipts.
  • To send church updates, newsletters, or event information (if subscribed).
  • To improve our website and analyze visitor interactions.
  • To ensure security and prevent fraudulent activities.

We do not sell or share your personal data with third parties for marketing purposes.

3. How We Share Your Information

We may share your information with:

  • Service providers (e.g., payment processors for online giving, email newsletter platforms).
  • Legal authorities if required by law or to protect our community.
  • Church leadership or ministries (only when necessary for pastoral care or church engagement).

We ensure that any third-party services comply with privacy and security standards.

4. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

We use cookies and similar tracking technologies to enhance your browsing experience. These help us:

  • Analyze website traffic and usage patterns.
  • Remember user preferences.
  • Improve website functionality.

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

5. Your Choices and Rights

You have the right to:

  • Opt-out of marketing emails (unsubscribe link in emails).
  • Request access to your personal information.
  • Update or delete your data (contact us to request changes).

To exercise these rights, email us at [email protected]

6. Security of Your Information

We implement security measures to protect your data, including:

  • SSL encryption for data transmission.
  • Restricted access to sensitive information.
  • Regular security audits to maintain website integrity.

However, no system is 100% secure, and we encourage safe online practices.

7. Third-Party Links

Our website may contain links to external sites (e.g., social media, partner organizations). We are not responsible for their privacy practices. Please review their privacy policies before sharing personal information.

8. Children’s Privacy

Our website is not directed at children under 13. If we become aware of data collected from a minor without parental consent, we will remove it promptly.

9. Changes to This Privacy Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy as needed. Any changes will be posted on this page with the revised effective date.

10. Contact Us

For questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy, please contact us.