Why does the LDS Church takes tithing from the poorest members, even though it already has a lot of money?
Todd Noall
Fact Checked by Kevin Prince
Updated July 3, 2024
In the Old Testament, the Lord instructed the people to pay their tithing. He promised that if they paid their tithing He would open “the windows of heaven, and pour… out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it” (Malachi 3:10). Mormons believe that sacrificing ten percent of their income by paying tithing, whether they are rich or poor, invites the Lord to pour out blessings on the giver.
The Mormon Church provides for the poor and needy through various means, one of which is called fast offerings. Fast offerings are given by members once a month. They fast for at least two meals and give the monetary value of those meals to their local congregation. If they have the means, they are asked to be more generous with their fast offerings. These funds are used “to bless the lives of those in need.”
Mormon Church tithing is both a spiritual and practical principle to those who practice it. Mormons believe that all of their blessings, including monetary means, come from the Lord. Paying tithing or giving a fast offering shows gratitude to God by helping to provide funds to His Church and His children.
References
- The direct quote comes from Joseph B. Wirthlin, “The Law of the Fast,” Ensign, May 2001. Other information came from L. Tom Perry, “The Law of the Fast,” Ensign, May 1986; “Fasting and Fast Offerings,” Topics and Questions, the Chuch of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/gospel-topics/fasting-and-fast-offerings?lang=eng.