Question: Reverend Bob, I’m a pastor. Quite often members of our congregation give us junk and then write it off on their income taxes. We get worn-out cars, worn-out clothes, and other items that we have no use for. I have a real problem with this. Could you give me some direction. Response: I often ask Christians who are content to give junk to God–if they would like to get junk back from God. I suspect not. I don’t believe that a church should be a refuse dump for unusable items. Larry Burkett used to counsel that “If you can’t use, refuse it.” Consider setting up a screening committee to evaluate all non-cash gifts. If you don’t have an actual use for the item, or it’s not readily convertible into cash, don’t accept it. Groups like the Salvation Army and Goodwill Industries refurbish used furniture, clothing, appliances, etc., and turn them into assets. Refer your donors to them.