It is important that we set the record straight concerning the act of tithing to ones parish. In several letters to the Corinthians, St. Paul explains about God's indescribable gift.

"Each must do as already determined, without sadness or compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. Moreover, God is able to make every grace abundant to you, so that in all things, always having all you need, you may have an abundance for every good work." (2 Corinthians 9:7-8)

That which Paul asks of the Corinthians is grounded in God's own pattern of behavior. Believers in the Old Testament understood that, when they gave to God, God blessed them. Of course this is true, but some mistakenly believe that they must give to God before God will bless them. Consequently, we tend to give in order to get. This is not correct!

Because God is capable of overwhelming generosity, there should never be fear of being in need. God provides in abundance, all that we need, and God always gives first. When our faith allows us to recall that all the material blessings we have comes from Him, and that He promises to bless us for what we give, giving cheerfully is effortless.

And so, in response to how much, and how we should give, you are free to give 10% if you so choose, but know that there is no command to give any particular percentage or any particular amount. Remember, we are fellow laborers with Him. God prefers to work with us in determining how much and to whom we should give.

At Saint Kenneth, you may notice that we do not pass baskets at the offertory. In the Gathering Space, there is a depository in which to place your gift. This depository is a physical reminder of our trust in the Lord. It has not gone unnoticed. Please allow prayer and reflection to guide your donations. God is faithful to His Word, and we rejoice in His blessings!

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