The richest church in the world is reported to be the Mormon Church (LDS) and it is funded entirely by the tithe. They do not engage in economic development and all thier ministries are supported by the tithe. I suggest the AME Church wolud have all the funds it needs if it would adopt that principle and refuse to accept any thing but tithes and freewill offerings. That is what we are doing now at the church I serve. When I came there five years ago, they were using everything from chicken dinners to special fundraising days. Through teaching, we have been able to encourage the people to tithe and make freewill offerings to the church and that is all that we accept. If that is not enough, we simply do without. God has blessed us so that we are able to meet our every need including a 400% increase in our General Conference Budget, a 200% increase in the Presiding Elder's askings plus all the increases from the District level. Two years ago, we decided not to protest the increases and let God provide, which He has done. We also feel that when the increases become extreme, He will also stop any unfair or unscriptural assessments in His own way.

Blessings

Pastor Paris

-- Anonymous, February 24, 2002

Answers

It has always been a question in the back of my mind if a pastor should tithe in his local church or should the tithe go up to the next higher level.

-- Anonymous, February 24, 2002

My family tithes in the local church and other ministries as the Lord leads us. I guess the question is: WWJD?

Blessings

Pastor Paris

-- Anonymous, February 25, 2002

Dear Brother I believe you maybe mistaken with the belief of the mormons. They practically own every business in Utah. The Marriotts are Mormons and the Church supports that Hotel Chain whenever and wherever members travel. They own Banks, Mortgage Brokerage Firms and other major enterprises.They carry significant Political clout in the legislature in Utah. They have insurance companies as well.Go to www.time.com/time/europe/eu/magazine/0,9868,172711,00.html for insight into the Mormon business in Europe and in America.There are other sites as well. Nothing against the Mormons I am happy for them and their success. I prefer the Book of the Bible over the Book of Mormon. God Bless You Pastor Paris and Keep up the great work!!

In a posting I gave you last year about the tithing success in Bermuda I seem to recall your response being that it may not be well received(forgive me if I do not have it correctly).I am delighted to see the fruits of your labour. You are to be congratulated on fine work.

-- Anonymous, February 25, 2002