Overview of Financial Assistance in the Mormon Church
The Mormon Church, also known as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, provides unique and thoughtful financial assistance through its welfare program. This article will explore how members receive financial help, the significance of fast offerings, and the roles of local bishops in distributing these funds.
The Importance of Fast Offerings
Members of the church are encouraged to prayerfully fast once a month, going without food and drinks other than water for a couple of meals. The purpose is not merely spiritual but also financial. The money saved from these meals is donated to the fast offering fund, which supports the church's welfare program. This practice is in contrast to tithes, which are given separately and used for different purposes.
Fund Distribution and Responsibility
The funds from fast offerings are used to support the entire welfare program, including direct financial assistance to those in need. The responsibility for distributing these funds lies with the bishop or branch president, who are also known as the ward president. These leaders are expected to be judicious in their use of the funds, considering the financial contributions of the ward members.
A Real-Life Example of Financial Aid
One family, consisting of a husband and wife aged 70 and 64, found themselves in a difficult financial situation. They had recently experienced a large vehicle repair bill, followed by a high electric bill, leaving them with very little money for groceries. They approached their bishop for assistance and showed him their budget, identifying areas where they could cut back.
The bishop, recognizing the family's struggle, helped them by paying for a food order at Walmart, and also assisted them in the following month with the same amount, expecting them to regain their financial independence. If the situation didn't improve, they were encouraged to seek further help through a follow-up appointment.
Assessment and Support
When a family approaches the bishop for assistance, they undergo a thorough assessment of their situation. This includes understanding the causes of their financial struggles, discussing their plans to overcome the difficulties, and exploring ways to strengthen their family's financial resilience.
Local bishops often have access to resources such as employment specialists who can offer guidance and support in finding ways to improve one's employment situation. They may also provide practical advice, such as helping to stretch the food budget by harvesting fresh produce from community gardens or fruit trees.
Encouragement and Support for Non-Members
While the fast offering fund is primarily reserved for members of the church, the church encourages non-members who are struggling financially to also seek assistance. However, the bishop or branch president will carefully consider their needs, ensuring that the funds are used appropriately.
The church offers numerous resources to help individuals facing challenges such as smoking, alcoholism, and drug addiction. By being cautious and judicious in the use of these resources, the church ensures that the funds are used to support those truly in need.
Conclusion
The welfare program of the Mormon Church is a testament to the community's support and care for its members. Through the practice of fast offerings and the dedicated work of local bishops, families receive the necessary assistance to overcome financial hardships. This article highlights the importance of fast offerings, the roles of bishops, and the church's commitment to providing meaningful support.