My dear Parishioners,

Peace! There are six (6) Commandments of the Church treated in three (3) articles of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2041–2043. The following is a reflection on the sixth commandment which requires us to “provide for the material needs of the Church” according to our abilities.

The word “tithe” is not in this Commandment or precept of the Church, but the idea sure is. In fact, we need not restrict ourselves to 10%. The Hebrew word maaser and the Greek word dekate are translated in Sacred Scripture as “tithe.” In Sacred Scripture has much to teach us about tithing and giving. We read that “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). The measure we measure with will be measured back to us (cf. Matthew 7:2; Luke 6:38). Which is to say that if we are generous the Good God will be no less generous. Afterall, God’s generosity has already been made manifest in so many ways: giving us our existence, our lives, redemption, faith… In the Old Testament there are many references to the tithe (cf. Genesis 14:17–20; Leviticus 27:30–33; Numbers 18:26; Deuteronomy 12:17; 14:22–25; 26:12; 2 Chronicles 31:5–6; 1 Maccabees 10:31; 11:35; 1 Samuel 8:17; Jeremiah 33:13). That we should not hold back our tithe is brought out clearly in Malachi 3:10. The lesson of the “Widow’s mite” is about sacrificial giving, all that she had, not just 10% (cf. Mark 12:41–44; Luke 21:1–4). The lesson of Zacchaeus has him engaging not in tithing, per se but in restitution and reparation. Zaccheus promised to give half of his possessions (50%) of assets not income and restore 400% anything he may have defrauded (Luke 19:1–10). In this way he shows the conversion of his heart, how he was no longer a slave to money, how he trusted in the Lord and His providence. While the term “tithe” is not found in Acts 4:34–35, contributing to the material needs of the Church is clear, in that the proceeds of the sale of lands or houses were brought and laid at the feet of the apostles for distribution to the needy. The tuition assistance program as worked out between our parishes, the diocese and our Catholic Schools shows this in great relief even still, as does the workings of Catholic Charities….

I recall once, speaking with a lady from one parish who was anxious that she was not doing enough to “provide for the material needs of the Church.” I asked her if she was tithing, giving 10% of her income to the service of God, His Church. She assured me she was giving more than 10%. If we are able to give more than a tithe, then we are moving from justice, giving each their due, and God has His due, to generosity. It is good to recall here that we are made in God’s image and likeness, so the call to generosity is the fulfilment of our nature.

God bless you!

Father John Arthur Orr