Mormon Financial Attitudes: A Practical and Spiritual Approach
Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often referred to as Mormons, are taught to approach finances with a blend of practical wisdom and spiritual principles. Their financial philosophy emphasizes self-reliance, responsible stewardship, and generosity.
Core Principles
Tithing: A fundamental principle is the payment of tithing, defined as ten percent of one’s gross income. This is considered an offering to God and is used to build temples, support missionary work, and provide humanitarian aid worldwide. Members believe that paying tithing brings blessings, both spiritual and temporal.
Fast Offerings: In addition to tithing, members are encouraged to contribute “fast offerings.” Once a month, Mormons abstain from food and drink for two consecutive meals and donate the money they would have spent on those meals to help those in need within their local congregation and community.
Avoiding Debt: Church leaders strongly advise members to avoid unnecessary debt, particularly consumer debt. The encouragement is to live within one’s means and save for major purchases rather than relying on credit. Practical steps like creating a budget and tracking expenses are emphasized.
Living Within Your Means: Budgeting is not just recommended, but considered a key element of financial stewardship. Members are taught to track their income and expenses, prioritize needs over wants, and create a plan for saving and debt repayment. The Church provides resources and educational materials to help members develop these skills.
Self-Reliance: The concept of self-reliance is central to Mormon financial philosophy. It encompasses education, job skills, emotional and spiritual well-being, and sound financial management. The Church offers self-reliance courses focusing on employment, personal finances, education, and starting a business.
Saving for the Future: Mormons are encouraged to save for future needs, including education, retirement, and unexpected emergencies. The importance of building an emergency fund is heavily stressed, providing a buffer against financial hardship.
Generosity and Helping Others: Beyond tithing and fast offerings, members are encouraged to be generous with their time, talents, and resources to help those in need. This aligns with their belief in the importance of service and building strong communities.
Impact and Practical Application
These principles, when applied, can lead to increased financial stability, reduced stress, and a greater sense of purpose. While challenges remain in a complex financial world, Mormons strive to integrate their spiritual beliefs with practical financial management to create a more secure and meaningful life, both for themselves and for those around them. The emphasis on long-term planning, avoiding debt, and generous giving shapes their approach to money management, fostering a sense of responsibility and community support.