All articles are copyrighted property of their respective authors.
Reproducing or republishing an article, in whole or in part, in any other forum requires permission of the author or the moderator. My acquaintances came from very small congregations where everyone was welcomed and the basic membership hoped the stranger would come again. Most organizations have a basic membership fee, and then expect those who can to contribute more. I think this is reasonable. Also, everyone should know that it is no disgrace to need help financially, and as has been so ably described here, to contribute by participating is a way of making up for financial help when that is impossible.