About Tithing
Although the grace of God is free, nevertheless the Church has material needs in this world. One of the precepts of the Catholic Church is to “provide for the needs of the Church.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church #2043) It is the duty of the Faithful to supply the material needs of our neighbors and to support our local parish, each according to each’s ability.
Tithing is the practice of giving a portion of one’s income to the Church. The word “tithe” literally means “one-tenth.” The practice of giving one-tenth of one’s income is tied to Abraham’s donation to Melchizedek.
Melchizedek, king of Salem, brought out bread and wine. He was a priest of God Most High. He blessed Abram with these words: “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, the creator of heaven and earth; And blessed be God Most High, who delivered your foes into your hand.” Then Abram gave him a tenth of everything.
While we Catholics are not obliged to give a definite percentage of our income, we are expected to give cheerfully from our livelihood, not just from our surplus.
Each must do as already determined, without sadness or compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
When [Jesus] looked up he saw some wealthy people putting their offerings into the treasury and he noticed a poor widow putting in two small coins. He said, “I tell you truly, this poor widow put in more than all the rest; for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood.”
Some choose to give a portion of their tithe to Sacred Heart Parish and another portion to various other charities. The way you choose to make your gift is a matter to be determined in conversation with God.
As you prepare to give to Sacred Heart Parish, be sure to pray and discern with your family how much you will give. Offer God your “first fruits” out of a spirit of joyful gratitude.
Need Envelopes?
No gift is too small! If you need more donation envelopes for giving to Sacred Heart Catholic Church, please contact Stacie Forshee at the Parish Office at 940.759.2500 (ext. 8) or email sforshee@shmuenster.com.
