“And average giving per baptized member grew 2.8 percent in 2009 to $492”
$492???? That’s really pathetic.
Kids are babtized, so I hope they are included in that average. But, probably only an average of 1 child to every two adults (lots of older folks without children), so still. That $492 sure seems REAL low.
Years ago I would help out an older couple. Then sit around and chat for awhile. I recall looking down my nose at the old gal when she told the story about how her pastor asked for an additional donation for something, and she exlaimed to me “We already give $5 a week!”
But she was a talker, and went on to relate where the rest of her $600/month S.S. check went to (I don’t recall the actual amount, but it was low). After she got done running through the numbers I felt like a jerk - and wondered how she could even afford the $5! (The widow’s mite story came to mind).
On the other hand, I have heard stories about the well-off. One was from a friend on the stewardship committee where he was talking to an orthodontist in the church. When he brought up the subject of “tithing”, and considered by our church to be 10%, the orthodntist replied “Ten percent! Do you have any idea how much money that would be!!??” Of course no one is required to pledge 10% - but it is mentioned and taught.