A1 There is no rule in the theology of Christian Science whether students of its teachings should tithe or not. However, the blessings that adherents gain from practicing Christian Science commonly inspire them to contribute toward the Church of Christ, Scientist, which is devoted to making the teachings of this Science available to all humanity.
It does take a large amount of money to finance the Church's activities. This international organization publishes Christian Science literature and periodicals, provides a weekly Bible Lesson, supports branch Churches of Christ, Scientist, that hold weekly church services and Sunday School sessions around the world, and maintains many other resources that support and advance Christian Science. But aside from a one-dollar minimum contribution that members are expected to make to The Mother Church each year, no rule is arbitrarily imposed to raise funds. Instead, each individual goes to God in prayer and decides what to "tithe."
In Christians Science, contributing financially is not a matter of following a prescribed formula for giving, but is the outcome of sharing from the heart. Jesus praised the generosity of the poor widow woman who threw two mites, or small coins, into the church treasury (see Luke 21:1—4). Many rich people around her gave large amounts of money that made her financial contribution look paltry. But she gave everything she had, presumably out of a deep love for God and trust in His care. And for this, Jesus said she had actually offered more than all the rest.
