This would elicit the desired response from the audience who would automatically start clapping or sobbing or giggling on this cue. And even religious groups are aware of and use the Comparison Rule. Before the collection plates are handed out to the faithful, ushers will throw several different bills or checks onto the plate. Thus, no one ever gets an empty plate. This makes a considerable difference in contributions.
People are slow to fill up an empty collection plate and a little salt gets things going.
Also, the heavier the salt, the stronger the contribution. That is, you get more contributions if you salt the plate with tens and twenties than if you salt it with ones and fives. When You Like the Source, Do What Is Requested. Joe Gerard sells cars and trucks. He sells a lot of them as a matter of fact.