What is Tithing?

What is a tithe?

The word “tithe” comes from a Hebrew word meaning “tenth”.  It means to give away one-tenth of the fruits of one’s labors or fortunes.  I propose that we adapt this as a spiritual concept in order to further the mission of our local church.

Where does tithing come from?

In the Book of Genesis, Abram met the living God through the priest Melchizedek.  In response, “Abram gave him a tenth of everything.” -Gen 14:20.  Abram did this in order to humble himself and remind himself that his successes were not due to his own power, but rather to the power and generosity of God.  He felt that if he did not give this “tithe,” that he would become too proud.  The concept of tithing is repeated often in the bible.  However, we are not bound to the Laws of Moses.  The basis for our tithing today is a free response to the generosity of Jesus on the cross, and as a way to mimic how the early Church shared their resources in the Acts of the Apostles as they learned what it meant to be part of the family of God.  (See Acts 4:32-35)

Are we supposed to give 10-percent of our income?

Although 10-percent is biblical, we are not bound to it.  Drawing from the wisdom of the Bible, a percentage-based tithe is a good way to challenge oneself to offer their best gifts back to God.  I am proposing that each parishioner/family consider a 5-percent of income (after tax), faith-based, offering to the parish each calendar year.  This would significantly help our parish and keep us from drawing on a line of credit or spending an annuity or C.D.  Overall, there are other causes that you want to give to such as the Bishop’s Appeal, the collection for Africa, Global Outreach, etc.  The combined total of all offerings could equal about 10-percent of your net income.  This approach takes a lot of faith!  God will bless us each in return with what we need to survive.

Faith-Giving & Tithing

We propose the following points that will help the parish stay fiscally healthy this year:

1. Money does not drive this parish.  Faith in Jesus Christ, obedience to the teachings, and a faithful approach to the Mass is what drives us.  
   As St. Paul wrote, “The love of Christ urges us on.” -2 Cor 5:14
2. We must view our parish as a spiritual family where everyone participates in good times and in bad, no matter the sermon or other conditions.
3. The offering of time, talent, and treasure is done in faith, out of gratitude to God, with a sense of familial obligation, and with a deep trust that God will provide.  We cannot see it as a mere business transaction.
4. This parish is committed to absolute financial transparency.  Any information about where money goes, how it is used, and how decisions are made, is available to those who inquire.  Asking is better than assuming or gossiping.
5. We will not shame those who are not doing their part.  Each person needs to examine his/her own conscience.  It is only the pastor’s prerogative (as a spiritual father to a family) with the help of the parish/finance councils to shepherd those who are not fully engaged in stewardship.  
6. “God loves a cheerful giver.” -2 Cor 9:7