This family I know has the husband's mother living with them right now. She has been attending some church and they've been raising money for building a new church. Fine and dandy. However the preacher brags that many have donated thousands to guilt trip those who have not donated. So this woman felt compelled to donate $100. Which was basically her weekly money so she has nothing to live off the rest of the week and mooched off the family. Who really don't need the burden since they're low in come and have kids.
The woman was obviously stupid but shouldn't the church be greatful for all their donations not just ones that are a thousand dollars? Do many churchs act this way? Do you think it's very Christian to guilt trip?
2006-12-23 18:17:38 · 3 answers · asked by Gypsy Cat 4 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Like most things, there are at least 2 ways to look at that. I am guessing the church leaders think (just like PBS and Jerry's Kids do) that when someone makes a large donation they should at least get a public thank you. If it gets the donater extra business or respect in the community (or extra donations to the church) then that is just wonderful. A Church is a business and they have mouths to feed and bills to pay - and apparently now they need a roof. It is an important part of being a clergy man to be able to inspire the congregation to donate to maintain the religious institution they all believe is so important.
In other words, the preacher works for the community and if the community doesn't pay him he does not eat - and if they do not fix his roof, he gets wet. If the church is important to you, you need to help out when you can - and traditionally tithing 10% of your yearly income was what the churches sought - not $100 that inconvenienced a woman and her family for only 1 week.
Do we think it is Christian to guilt trip? I don't think there would be Christianity, Judaism or Islam without liberal use of guilt - do you?
Peace!
2006-12-23 18:25:10 · answer #1 · answered by carole 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
In the United States, religion is a free market. Whoever is most effective at fundraising wins. Some of them are sleazy, other ones sell an image, others sell a place to hang out. But it's all about market economics.
2006-12-24 02:21:01 · answer #2 · answered by STFU Dude 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
The church and religion system is a sick and twisted market. Even if god is real and all. These men are exploitin the lord to make a dolla. Its sicknin. I wont ever give a cent to no church ever.
2006-12-24 02:19:59 · answer #3 · answered by silent_engage 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋