Church Donations Down
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Posted: 8:56 PM Apr 3, 2009
Church Donations Down
If you attend church, chances are you're asked to tithe -- or give 10 percent. But with these tough economic times, many churches are seeing fewer dollars in the collection plate.
Reporter: Dave Benton
Email Address: dave.benton@wsaz.com
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KENOVA, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- If you attend church, chances are you're asked to tithe -- or give 10 percent.

But with these tough economic times, many churches are seeing fewer dollars in the collection plate. We took a look at how the economy is affecting some local churches' budgets -- even their outreach services.

At Kenova United Methodist Church, members are committed to giving, but nowadays it's a little tough.

"We have had a decline in giving, but our congregation gives everything in their power," said Sheila Mosley, a Kenova United Methodist Church member.

The church is in the process of paying off a building fund before its members can start work on a new expansion.

"It's very scary," Mosley said. "I've heard of the depression stories --just have to trust in the Lord."

The story is the same at Trinity Episcopal Church in Huntington where the church depends largely on donations.

"We try to communicate accurately with the congregation -- what's coming in and out," church member Kevin Kelly said. "But on the other hand, I don't want the church service to be all about money."

Recent studies of church finances across the country found that 28 percent of congregations are falling short at collection time. But the problem is also seen outside the sanctuary at food banks, including the Cridlin food and clothing pantry at Trinity Episcopal.

Anyone interested in helping supply it can stop by or call to get details on what food items are needed.


Latest Comments

Posted by: Amber on Apr 9, 2009 at 11:24 AM

Those who actually do tithe know how helpful it can be in ones life! I know that when I tithe its an act of faith to God.... and even when I don't have alot, I know that God will continue to bless me and fill my needs no matter how bad the economy is!
Posted by: Matt on Apr 8, 2009 at 10:40 AM

Some of the studies I've read around the country suggest churches are actually holding up fairly well. This story loosely alludes to "recent studies" but doesn't cite a source, which would be helpful. The 10-percent tithing is a benchmark for some churchgoers, but it's not a mandate. Christ says the woman who gave her last mite was as faithful as the wealthy who give. Tithing isn't the "price of admission to heaven" as one commenter suggests, and it isn't just to pay the preacher and singers, as another suggests. Real church work involves administrative costs for the ministry provided to the church and to the surrounding community. Our communities would suffer greatly were it not for the presence of churches, and the people who tithe to support their efforts!
Posted by: Gregory on Apr 7, 2009 at 11:20 AM

We work with Churches to help them alleviate the affects of the downturn by providing services that add supplemental income thru critical services that are still needed, even in a down economy.
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