Whenever an institution demands a tithe (?), it’s no longer a tithe and that crap should be illegal. Matter of fact, it is illegal. It’s extortion because they are using fear to get their damned greedy hands on the property of others. Admitted that I don’t know what a settlement meeting is, but it sounds like a case file that belongs in a prosecutor’s office rather than in a “church”.
Enough to make my blood boil first thing this morning.
My best to you, Reaganaut. I’m glad you’re out and safe in the hands of Jesus Christ.
Sadly, several people have tried to litigate this and got nowhere. It appears that spiritual blackmail isn’t covered by the courts.
And, I am also glad God rescued me from Mormonism.
A ‘tithing settlement meeting’ is where the member goes in and discusses their tithing (complete with printout of what they gave) with their ‘bishop’ and affirms or denies that they have paid their tithing in full to the LDS church.
Can you imagine a Christian church even doing such a thing?
My giving is between me and God - no one else.
Hi SC,
The LDS don’t “demand” the tithe, they equivocate by calling it a condition of worthiness. IOW, if you aren’t a full tithe payer, you can’t get a temple recommend.
If you can’t get a temple recommend, you can’t go to the temple and take out your endowments.
If you can’t take out your endowments, you don’t qualify for the celestial kingdom (highest degree of glory) and thus, don’t get to dwell in the presence of Heavenly Father.
Although, one can always use their “free agency” to not pay the tithe...but the “conditions” do not change.
Blessings,
SZ