Nigerian Man Stops Tithe After UK Church Experience, Questions Nigerian Practices
A Nigerian man who relocated to the United Kingdom has shared a revealing account of his church experiences that led him to stop paying tithe, sparking a broader discussion about financial practices in religious institutions. His observations highlight a stark contrast between Nigerian and UK church approaches to tithes and offerings.
From Regular Tithe Payments to a Sudden Halt
The man explained that while living in Nigeria, he was a consistent and dedicated tither, never missing his monthly contributions to his home church. This commitment continued even after he moved abroad, as he initially sent money back to Nigeria for his tithe about twice. However, his perspective shifted dramatically after attending a church in the UK.
In his UK church, he noted that tithe is not requested, and offering is entirely optional, yet the congregation provides substantial support to its members. Specifically, he mentioned that the church feeds attendees every Sunday and maintains a place where free food is available for those in need at home. This practice stood in sharp contrast to his experiences in Nigeria.
A Question of Accountability and Purpose
This observation prompted the man to question the use of tithe funds in Nigerian churches. He reflected on his time in Nigeria, stating, 'All the tithe we paid in church in Nigeria where did it go? There was never a time we had food for the poor or a room where food was kept. Isn’t that the essence of tithe?' His inquiry touches on core issues of transparency and the intended purpose of tithes in supporting community welfare.
When his mother called to inquire why he had stopped sending tithe to his home church, he explained the differences he observed. He told her, 'We don’t pay tithe in the UK, and even offering isn’t compulsory. I also told her we eat every Sunday, and there’s a place you can pick up free food if you don’t have any at home.' Her response, which he shared as 'You are backsliding,' underscores the cultural and religious expectations surrounding tithe payments in many Nigerian communities.
Broader Implications for Church Practices
This story raises important questions about the role of tithes in modern church operations, particularly in how funds are allocated for member support. The man's experience suggests a potential gap in some Nigerian churches regarding visible, tangible benefits for congregants, such as food assistance programs. It also highlights the influence of cultural norms on financial contributions, where deviation can be viewed negatively, as seen in his mother's reaction.
As discussions around church finances and accountability continue, this account serves as a catalyst for examining whether tithe practices align with their stated purposes of community care and support. The contrast between the optional offerings and member feeding in the UK church versus the mandatory tithes in Nigeria without such visible benefits invites reflection on best practices in religious stewardship.
