In a previous post, I shared some of my testimony and memories about tithing. In my post today, I want to expound on the topic of my first tithing experience.
My first ward was the Thayne Wyoming ward in the Afton Wyoming stake. Until I was about 12 years old, we did not have the gray envelopes and donation slips for paying tithing and other donations. Instead, we had to meet individually with the Ward Clerk to pay our tithing.
Before church started each week, the Ward Clerk would be available in the clerk's office to accept donations. Individual ward members or families would wait outside the clerk's office for their turn to meet with the ward clerk and pay their tithing or make other donations.
Our ward clerk was Leland Skinner. Some Sundays after we arrived at church, Mom would give me a penny or a nickel (sometimes even a dime). She would then tell me to go pay my tithing. I was always scared to talk to Brother Skinner. Usually, Mom would accompany me to the clerk's office. I would hand my money to Brother Skinner. He would ask my name. Then he would record my name and donation in his ledger.
It was more fun and less scary to accompany Mom or Dad when they met with Brother Skinner to pay their tithing.
Two things stand out to me about this memory.
First, I do not remember that Brother Skinner ever gave me a receipt for my tithing. As I look back now, I am sure he probably gave me a receipt. I suspect that my Mom got the receipt. However, I do not remember ever receiving a receipt.
Second, I do not remember any other members of the bishopric being present when I paid my tithing. Given the protection that comes from having a second person witness handling money, and what I know now about the church handbook of instructions, it is likely there was a counselor in the bishopric present when the money was received. However, I do not remember this.
I am so grateful for my parents who taught me the importance of paying my tithing. As a result of their faithful example, I have never doubted the principle of tithing. To the best of my knowledge, I have paid a full tithing on every bit of money earned in my life.
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