What Is Sacrificial Giving?

"Sarificial Giving begins with the recognition that everything we have has been given to us by God and is based on an understanding that as Christian stewards, we receive God's gifts gratefully, cultivate them responsibly, share them lovingly in justice with others, and return them with increase to the Lord."
-United States Bishops' Pastoral Letter on Stewardship

5 Elements of Sacrificial Giving to Your Parish


It’s planned...
The decision to give is done after careful prayer and consideration of one’s financial obligations. It is not about giving what is left over, but considering what can be given from the start, by giving the “first fruits” in gratitude of your blessings and in support of God’s priorities.

It’s proportionate...
Some refer to the biblical concept of tithing by giving a tenth of what they are blessed to receive. We are simply asked to consider a gift that is proportionate to our resources and one that shows our appreciation for the blessings God has bestowed.

It’s a sacrifice...
A gift is a sacrifice when it comes from substance rather than abundance. That sacrifice will differ among families. The importance is realizing that our security lies not in our material resources, but in God.

It’s given with a prayer of Thanksgiving...
At Mass, we celebrate Christ’s sacrifice and in turn, demonstrate our gratefulness in response to the love God has shown us.

It’s a Gift...from the Heart...
No gift is truly a gift unless it is given freely. God’s gifts are given to us in an unconditional manner. It does not buy us a new car, iPhone, or ensure we land that job, but we are given the resources necessary without question to what we will give in return. We give what we give because God has already given to us.