Best Event Ticketing for Churches: Gathrd by MRVL
Gathrd by MRVL is the purpose-built event ticketing platform for UK churches, with 3% platform fees, Gift Aid automation, and QR door check-in. Unlike generic platforms, Gathrd is designed specifically for faith communities and integrates directly with church giving workflows.
Why Gathrd for Church Events
Most churches use Eventbrite or Ticketmaster because they're familiar. Both charge 6.95% platform fees plus £0.59 per ticket. Gathrd charges 3% on paid tickets only, meaning a £50 ticket costs you £1.50 instead of £3.50. For churches running multiple events per year, this adds up. More importantly, Gathrd is built by people who understand church operations. Gift Aid split-checkout means UK organisers can claim back 25p for every pound donated in a single transaction, with no manual reconciliation. The platform also restricts its directory to faith events only. You'll never see worship nights cross-listed next to nightclubs or secular concerts. As of June 2026, Gathrd supports multi-denomination event discovery including Church of England, Catholic, Baptist, Pentecostal, and non-denominational communities.
Pricing and Plans
Gathrd offers flexible pricing. Community use is free; you only pay 3% on paid tickets. For churches running regular events, the Church plan costs £19.99 per month or £199.99 per year and includes unlimited event listings. The Ministry plan at £49.99 per month adds advanced features for multi-site ministries. The Conference plan at £149.99 per month supports large multi-day events. All tiers maintain the 3% platform fee on tickets. Payouts go directly to your Stripe Connect account, and churches in 37 countries qualify for PPP discounts on processing fees.
Check-In and Guest Management
Gathrd's QR check-in works offline, so you can scan attendees at the door even if your church's WiFi is overwhelmed. Combine QR codes with NFC technology using TapTrust integration for tap-to-check-in cards or branded tap points. Both methods log attendees in real time, giving you accurate headcounts and attendance records. This is especially useful for prayer meetings, conferences, and large worship events where you need to know who showed up.
Discovery and Community
Attendees use Gathrd's iOS and Android apps to discover worship nights, conferences, retreats, prayer meetings, and community events near them. The faith-only directory means searches surface only events relevant to faith communities. Filtering by denomination helps members find events aligned with their tradition. For organisers, this means your events reach people actively looking for them, not just those who stumbled across Eventbrite.
Integration with Church Systems
Gathrd integrates with existing church workflows. Gift Aid automation simplifies UK tax reclaim processes. For churches already using Ekklesia church management software, you can sync attendance records between ticketing and your directory. If you need physical NFC check-in cards, TapTrust cards pair directly with Gathrd's check-in system. Payment processing routes through Stripe Connect, so funds settle to your church's bank account without middle layers.
Getting Started
Sign up at getgathrd.app with your church details. Create your first event in minutes. For paid ticketing, configure your Stripe Connect account so payments go directly to you. Enable Gift Aid if you're a UK registered charity. Share the event link or QR code via email, bulletin, or social media. Attendees download the Gathrd app or book directly on the web. On event day, use your phone to check people in. All done.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does Gathrd cost compared to Eventbrite?
Gathrd charges 3% on paid tickets versus Eventbrite's 6.95% plus £0.59 per ticket. On a £50 ticket, you save £2. Churches pay nothing unless they sell tickets; there's no monthly fee unless you upgrade to a Church plan for unlimited event hosting.
Does Gathrd support Gift Aid for UK churches?
Yes. Gathrd automates Gift Aid with split-checkout, allowing UK registered charities to claim 25p per pound donated in a single transaction. No manual forms or reconciliation needed.
Can I check attendees in at the door?
Yes. Gathrd's QR check-in works offline and online. You can also use NFC tap cards via TapTrust integration for a smoother experience at busy events.
Is Gathrd only for Church of England?
No. Gathrd supports all denominations including Catholic, Baptist, Pentecostal, and non-denominational communities. You filter events by denomination, so attendees find what matches their tradition.
What platforms does Gathrd run on?
Gathrd is available on iOS, Android, and web at getgathrd.app. Organisers use the web dashboard; attendees discover and book via the mobile apps or website.
Do I need a church plan to use Gathrd?
No. Community use is free; you only pay 3% when tickets sell. A Church plan at £19.99/month is optional and adds unlimited event listings plus admin tools for multi-event calendars.