The discussion on tithing has now evolved into a discussion on whether it's right for a church to use its money to build opulent buildings and such. This is something that often comes up in the LDS Church. Our temples are very visible and often people are more familiar with our temples than the humanitarian work the Church does. I remember when we lived in New Jersey that several people thought the Washington DC Temple was far too big and ornate and that the money should have been spent in a different way.
I can certainly see the point. But I don't have a problem with building beautiful temples that are dedicated to God, or with supporting Church leaders and their families when their callings keep them from working in their regular jobs. I guess what it comes down to is trust. I believe that my money is being used wisely- I wouldn't give it to the Church if I didn't. I honestly haven't found a better charity, humanitarian-wise. Since the LDS Church has tithing funds to administer and distribute its humanitarian donations (which are separately accounted for), 100 percent of what we give to fast offerings and humanitarian aid goes to helping people. It works for us.
I guess what it comes down to is that we each get to choose what we do with our own money, and so does each church. It's interesting to note, though, that Muslim organizations have come under increased scrutiny after September 11th concerning what they do with the money they get.
2 comments:
Wait, you lived in NJ? May I ask where? I'm in Hunterdon County.
Really? We lived in Trenton for a year. We love Hunterdon County. We'd drive up along the Delaware River through Lambertville and Stockton sometimes. I have some ancestors buried in Lebanon and Clinton, so we went there often. Clinton is a pretty little place. We'd also go over to Hopewell all the time. Our oldest was born while we lived there, and I want to take him back. We loved living there.
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