Call to Action: Tithing

As a military family, we have been blessed to experience many different Catholic parishes and schools located around the globe. When our daughters were in Catholic elementary school, the church supported the school so our tithing was critical. During that time, our church was also in need of a new building so parishioners were asked to tithe for both purposes: tuition and the building fund. 

Finances were tight so my husband asked the priest after Mass about the necessity for active-duty military parishioners to contribute to both the school and the building fund because our time was limited at the local base. My husband and I will never forget the reply from the priest, “Well, John, we are all just passing through.”

From that day on, we joyfully wrote two checks each week for the collection basket!

Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7 gives that Scriptural reminder:

Each must do as already determined, without sadness or compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

Tithing given in gratitude for all the blessings we have been given such as our family, health, education, and vocation is simply giving 10% of which 100% belongs to God. 

We received all our blessings from our Creator and giving back a tithe is all that is asked.

As we are reminded in Luke 12:48, from everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required; and from the one to whom much has been entrusted, even more will be demanded. 

The tangible blessings received from tithing are evident in the Military Council of Catholic Women’s ministry to connect, unite and inspire women, in religious education curriculum, adult formation programs, community outreach to those in need, and simply having heat and cooling at the chapel each week. 

If we do not support the Church with tithing, those most in need will suffer. Who is most in need in your area? Please consider making a donation to that ministry or individual. 

I challenge you to increase your tithe if you are just getting started with your commitment to give back to the Church or ministry that formed your faith. 

Giving Tuesday is just around the corner, and I hope you will consider giving a gift from your joyful heart to MCCW on November 29, 2022.

In Christ,

Joan

Director of Finance