The Great Money Scandal of the Great Dechurching
Christianity is a money-making scheme. This is a common criticism, and all too often it’s deserved, but the trend of our times is racing in the other direction. The primary source of income for most churches is tithes from parishioners — and congregations are dwindling. The church I attend is lucky to crack three dozen on any given Sunday. The brothers and sisters in Christ are old enough that from one month to the next, one or two may have died. The sanctuary is small and well-worn, the Bibles and hymnals stained, the organ in need of repair. Still, the offering isn’t compulsory and Bible study and other functions remain free. Like many a church today, it doesn’t even have enough money to ensure it can keep its doors open. Some money-making scheme.
