WRCBtv.com | Chattanooga News, Weather & SportsTithing Down, Attendance Up in Churches

Tithing Down, Attendance Up in Churches

Bernadette Jay
Eyewitness News Reporter

Tony Nudo
Eyewitness News Photographer

CHATTANOOGA (WRCB) - Just like all other places around America, even churches are getting hit by the recession. There's a drop in tithing.

"We have seen a slight adjustment in the last few months," said Senior Pastor Steve Ball, Metropolitan Tabernacle Sanctuary.

The latest study by the Christian research firm the Barna Group showed only 5 percent of all Americans tithed in 2007. As members bring what they can to the altar, there's always prayer for those hurting financially.

The senior pastor tells Eyewitness News the church is making sacrifices and cutting back on spending. This year, plans for a convention trip out of the country were canceled.

"We just want to be good stewards and take that money that we could have used for that and use it for something more helpful," said Ball.

Ball says historically when people are hurting, they turn to the church for help. He estimates 100 new people have joined his roster of 700 members.

"During times of crises, more people come to church, so even though people may not be giving as much as they normally did, more people are coming so it averages out," Ball said.

The belief among these churchgoers is prayer will change things - even in a recession.

"We're very optimistic that we're going to continue to grow through this year and have a record year," said Ball.

The Barna study also showed that some populations are more likely than others to give money in church service. Conservatives tithed 12 percent; 24 percent of evangelicals tithed; and registered republicans tithed 10 percent.

Ball says during these tough times the church helps some members pay their bills.