Raffles

[abcaines]

Some acquaintances of mine are debating whether Christians or Christian ministries ought to participate in or hold raffle drawings. Some see it as a form of gambling, therefore, it ought to be avoided. Others feel that although it's not gambling in the sense of casinos, it should be avoided as it may present a stumbling block to others, particularly those who struggle with gambling addiction. Others yet, see little connection to gambling and value raffles as a very effective way to raise money for charitable causes.

Personally, I don't have a problem with conducting raffles but I can relate to those who aren't as confident that raffles are a good thing.

To the FFF: What is your take on the issue?

 

[DrHuk&Duck]

Legally, non-profits are allowed to hold raffles in most states, so you’ll need to double check your state statutes and local ordinances.

Biblically, I don’t see an issue. I view gambling as a win-lose situation. With a church raffle, I view it as a win-win situation because the church still benefits even if the member loses.

My two cents….

 

[abcaines]

Legally, non-profits are allowed to hold raffles in most states, so you’ll need to double check your state statutes and local ordinances.

Biblically, I don’t see an issue. I view gambling as a win-lose situation. With a church raffle, I view it as a win-win situation because the church still benefits even if the member loses.

My two cents….

Oregon is a real bear about raffles. I think that is part of what is driving the debate amongst the crowd I'm hanging with.

 

[DrHuk&Duck]

Oregon is a real bear about raffles. I think that is part of what is driving the debate amongst the crowd I'm hanging with.

I wouldn’t imagine that they’ll bust a church raffle, but I’m not familiar with Oregon statutes.

 

[sword]

Some acquaintances of mine are debating whether Christians or Christian ministries ought to participate in or hold raffle drawings. Some see it as a form of gambling, therefore, it ought to be avoided. Others feel that although it's not gambling in the sense of casinos, it should be avoided as it may present a stumbling block to others, particularly those who struggle with gambling addiction. Others yet, see little connection to gambling and value raffles as a very effective way to raise money for charitable causes.

Personally, I don't have a problem with conducting raffles but I can relate to those who aren't as confident that raffles are a good thing.

To the FFF: What is your take on the issue?

Running a casino would be a very effective way to raise money but it would still be gambling.

You used to participate in community raffles as a way of supporting but if you give the money hoping to win how is that not gambling. If you give the money and give your ticket away or tell them you don’t want the prize then it’s pure charity,

Just my 2 cents.

 

[Ransom]

Raffles are games of chance, but I'm not sure I would put them in the same camp as gambling per se.

They're well understood to be a fundraising thing. The church, charity or whatever gets your money whether you win or lose. You don't collect your winnings from the losers' stakes; typically the prize is donated. So it's winners all round: someone gets the prize, all the players gave to a good cause, the cause gets the money, and the prize donor gets some publicity.

Still, in my mind, it's just close enough to gambling that I wouldn't want to use a raffle as a church fundraiser. Same with, say, bingo. I do support some charities that hold raffles, though I don't participate in it myself. If it bothers you, just make an outright donation, no strings attached.