Giving

Tithing is the practice, established by God in the Old Testament, of returning 10% of your blessings to God. By placing God first – above all other financial obligations – we show how much we love and trust Him.

 "Jesus' disciples and Christian stewards recognize God as the origin of life, giver of freedom, and source of all things. We are grateful for the gifts we have received and are eager to use them to show our love for God and for one another. We look to the life and teaching of Jesus for guidance in living as Christian stewards...Stewards of God's gifts are not passive beneficiaries. We cooperate with God in our own redemption and in the redemption of others." (To Be a Christian Steward, A Summary of the U.S. Bishops' Pastoral Letter on Stewardship, 1992)
 
Some people may never be able to reach a full tithe. Others reach that goal and keep giving, knowing that in reality, it all belongs to God.

“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with first fruits of all your produce; then will your barns be filled with grain, with new wine your vats will overflow.” - Proverbs 3:9-10

One piece of Stewardship is the calling to give back to God first before we take care of any of our own wants, needs or obligations. Even if giving a full tithe is not immediately possible for you, it is important to work towards this goal. You can begin by committing to giving a gift that is planned, proportionate and sacrificial.