Give Away Tables in Meetinghouse

[LakinL2]

Is there any stipulation to tables with give-away free books and clothing in the hallway of a meeting house?

[russellhltn]

The only thing I can think of that might apply: 35.4.5 Keep hallways, stairs, exits, and utility rooms clear for safe entry and exit.

[garystroble]

There is nothing in the handbook about it is true, but the building should be presentable for the worship of God. If every Sunday it looks like an extension of Deseret Industries or Goodwill that is not good.

[Mikerowaved]

I've seen this in a back hallway with lost and found items that haven't been claimed in a year or so.

[BrianEdwards]

There is nothing in the handbook about it is true, but the building should be presentable for the worship of God. If every Sunday it looks like an extension of Deseret Industries or Goodwill that is not good.

Agreed. There has been a renewed emphasis on church meetinghouses being more centered on Christ. For example, part of the Branch Council training materials from the October 2023 General Conference Leadership meetings included How Meetinghouses Can Be More Inviting and Christ Centered. The Sunday worship experience has also been a focus, and new Christ-centered artwork is also available for meetinghouses.

I think most of us agree with the benefits of a "give-away table". Perhaps a classroom would be a more appropriate location that allows people to take advantage of this, without impacting the impressions that members and non-members have as they walk through the building on Sundays.