This Privacy Policy explains how Via Vitae Church (“we”, “us”, “our”) collects, uses, and shares personal information when you visit viavitaechurch.org, join our communities, submit forms, or interact with our programs and services.

1. Who we are

Via Vitae Church is a U.S.-based church community focused on teaching, community support, and practical tools. You can contact us at admin@viavitaechurch.org.

2. Scope

This Policy covers our website, email newsletter, online forms, scheduling, payments/donations, and community spaces we operate or embed (e.g., YouTube, Facebook Group).

3. Information we collect

• Contact details (name, email, phone)
• Demographics and location (e.g., county/city)
• Messages and form responses (e.g., prayer requests, inquiries)
• Program selections and interests (e.g., CNA/PTA or PT)
• Transaction data (donations or purchases processed by third parties)
• Usage data and cookies (pages viewed, links clicked, device/browser info)

4. Sources

We collect information directly from you (forms, email, messages), automatically via cookies/analytics, and from service providers we use to operate our ministry.

5. How we use information

• Provide programs, send resources (e.g., Starter Kit), and respond to requests
• Operate groups, events, and accountability circles
• Send updates, devotionals, and community announcements (you can opt out anytime)
• Improve the site and measure engagement
• Maintain safety, prevent abuse/fraud, and comply with law

6. Legal bases (GDPR/EEA)

Where the GDPR applies, we process data based on consent, legitimate interests (e.g., running a faith community and providing requested resources), contract (when you register or purchase), legal obligations, and vital interests in rare safety matters.

7. Sharing of information

We share information with vendors who help us operate our services, such as:

• Forms & automation: Tally, Zapier/IFTTT (if used)
• Email/newsletter: Substack (or similar)
• Scheduling: Calendly
• Payments/donations: Stripe, PayPal, Gumroad (as applicable)
• Storage & collaboration: Google Drive/Docs/Sheets
• Video & community: YouTube, Facebook

These vendors act as processors or independent controllers under their own policies. We may also share information to comply with law, protect rights, or with your direction. We do not sell personal information.

8. Cookies & analytics

We use cookies and similar technologies for essential site functions, analytics, and embedded media. See our Cookie Policy for details and choices.

9. Data retention

We keep personal information only as long as needed for the purposes above, unless a longer period is required by law. We apply deletion or de‑identification when no longer necessary.

10. Your choices & rights

• Opt out of emails at any time via unsubscribe links.
• You can request access, correction, deletion, or restriction of your personal information.
• California residents: you may request to know, correct, or delete personal information and to opt out of “sharing” for cross‑context behavioral advertising. Use the “Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information” link if present or email us.
• EU/UK residents: you may have rights to object or withdraw consent; you may also lodge a complaint with your local data authority.

11. Children

Our online services are not directed to children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If you believe a child has provided information, contact us to request deletion.

12. Security

We use reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards. No method of transmission or storage is 100% secure.

13. International transfers

If you access our services from outside the U.S., your information may be processed in the U.S. where laws may differ. We use appropriate measures for cross‑border transfers where required.

14. Third‑party links & embeds

Our site links to and embeds third‑party services (e.g., YouTube, Facebook). Their privacy practices apply when you interact with them.

15. Changes to this Policy

We may update this Policy. We’ll post the new effective date above.

16. Contact

Questions or requests: admin@viavitaechurch.org

For more on finances, care, and safety, see our Policies & Safeguarding page.