How to Put an Offering in a Church Offertory

Churches encourage their members to make a donation to help keep the church running. This is called an "offertory" or "tithing." While traditions vary from church to church, there is typically a time during the service when you are asked to make a donation to the church. Note that while there is no requirement to put an offering in the church offertory (some churches even request that only members donate), the Bible does encourage charity and some have interpreted Bible messages to suggest that you should donate 10 percent of your income.

Instructions

1. Decide how much you can afford to give. If you cannot afford to give the traditional 10 percent, you are free to give any amount.

2. Place the money in an envelope. This helps you to maintain some privacy: others will not be able to see how much or how little you are giving. Some churches provide envelopes for you to use.

3. Put your envelope in the offertory basket. During the service, volunteers will pass a basket around to collect donations. When the basket passes you, simply place the envelope in the basket.

4. Give children an extra dollar or coin to put in the basket. This helps your child to see the importance of giving.

Tips & Warnings

• Not all churches will pass a basket. In some, there will be a special collection box somewhere in the church. If you are not sure where it is, ask a church member or the church leader.

References

• Layhands.com: Must Christians Tithe Ten Percent?
• "What's This Life All About Anyway?"; Helen W. Ray; 1959