The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a global faith that receives funds and other donations from a variety of donors. The Church uses these charitable donations to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ, to care for the poor, and to strengthen members’ faith and commitment to Jesus Christ. But the details of exactly how tithing funds are used and how other donations are handled are often misconstrued. Here are five misconceptions about tithing and the truth behind them.
1. Tithing and fast offering are used for the same things.
Tithing funds are disbursed directly to the Church’s educational, missionary, building, humanitarian and welfare programs. Tithing also funds the construction and maintenance of Church meetinghouses, temples and other facilities.
Fast offerings, which consist of at least the amount saved by fasting for two meals each month, go directly to supporting the poor and needy in local congregations.