What does the church teach about tithing?

Adaptation of an article by Rev. Ken Sloane, director of Stewardship & Generosity, Discipleship Ministries of The United Methodist Church, May 14, 2026

Tithing is commonly understood as the giving of one-tenth of one’s income for God. This standard of giving comes from several passages in Scripture (e.g. Genesis 28:10-22).

The founder of the Methodist movement, John Wesley, offered an even higher standard for giving, and for our entire approach to living. It’s found in Wesley’s sermon, “The Use of Money,” which is among the Standard Sermons included in our doctrinal standards. Click Here to read full article.

On Tuesday, you received an email from Pastor Susan stating that her first months at Smyrna First UMC have been filled with signs of growth, faithful ministry, and meaningful connections throughout the congregation. She also shared an invitation for the church family to help meet a year-end giving goal of $600,000 for the Core Ministry Budget by December 31, 2026, which would eliminate the projected budget shortfall and position the church for continued growth and ministry in 2027. Please consider what your family might be able to give.

7pm, Fellowship Hall.

An evening of worship, sponsored Anchored Women's Ministry for all ages of women to come together to worship, reflect and belong. Music will be provided by our Praise Band. Childcare available.

11am, Fellowship Hall. We will provide 

a crockpot meal with chili and soups. 

Our guest speaker is from MUST ministries.

RSVP to Rev. Barbara Hatchell by Monday, 

November 9th, so we will know how many 

tables to set up. barbarah1118@yahoo.com.

4pm, Fellowship Hall. The Meaning of Chrismons. This is a craft night to make Chrismons (Christ monograms) to hang on our trees. Cost is $25 per household. For more info. Click Here.

This Veterans Day we want to honor all of our SFUMC Veterans and Active Duty military with a display at the church. If you have not turned in information in years past, please contact Tom or Linda Porter, porter4305@yahoo.com Please submit by Nov 1st.

For a quick look at the dates of our Advent offerings Click Here.

LAST DAY OF DRIVE IS THIS SATURDAY! SPARK Women’s Group is collecting diapers, wipes, and hygiene items for Tillman House’s pantry. Drop donations in the bin by the Fellowship Hall, give a one-time or recurring monetary gift, or shop from our Amazon wish list.

Support the God's Light Youth Choir by participating in our annual sale! Proceeds help cover transportation expenses for the choir's tour. These beautiful plants make wonderful gifts for family and friends. Click Here to place your order today!

Heavy Coats, Gloves, Scarves, Blankets, New Socks, New Hats. Give Warmth. Share Kindness! Drop in Bins next to Fellowship Hall.

If you’ve missed any episodes of our intern Evie Hanover’s podcast, you can catch up using this link: On Purpose, With Purpose >.

Nov. 1 - Sunday School / Worship / Youth Band / Youth Orchestra / God's Light / Tomorrow's Promise

Nov. 2 - NoteAbles / Pickup Basketball

Nov. 3 - Bible Study for Moms / SPR / Anchored Women's Worship Night

Nov. 4 - Wednesday Bible Study / Recovery Groups /  Music Rehearsals / The Call Bible Study / Youth Group

Nov. 5 - The Branches Study / Recovery Groups

Nov. 6 - Recovery Groups

Nov. 7 - Recovery Groups / Garden Class

Thank you for your generosity to God through Smyrna First! In addition to the above giving options, planned giving options such as stock donations, wire transfers, RQDs and more are gratefully accepted. Please contact your tax advisor to learn how these options may benefit

your family. For information, please contact Kristen Sudduth, ksudduth@smyrnafumc.org.

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