Tithing means 10% - at Holy Spirit that comes down to 5% to the parish (2.5% to each church if spouses are of different faiths), 1% to the archdiocese (the broader church) and 4% to your other faith-based charities. At Holy Spirit, we are asking that you contribute your additional 4% help us replenish our savings from paying off the Capital Campaign debt. That involves a major leap of faith, and many people are reluctant, or afraid, to take that step. But I assure you, if you take even a tiny step in that direction you will not be disappointed. Jesus said that God will not be out-done in generosity – and that is so true. It doesn’t mean that if we give x amount of dollars we will necessarily wake up one morning and find those dollars have miraculously multiplied in our bank account. But it does mean that somehow we manage. I can’t explain that “somehow” because God is a mystery. But I can tell you from personal experience that it works.
So, if you’re willing to take a chance on it, I am willing to offer you a deal.
Pick a percentage that you think will work for you, and make a pledge in that amount. Then start giving at that pledge amount with a joyful heart. After 6 months, take a second look at where you are. If you find that it’s not working for you, and that your financial situation is strained because of your giving, then come to see me and we will make whatever adjustment you need – including refunding whatever you need of the money you have already contributed.
