The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America, has reportedly directed that members be refunded their three years of tithe, to help them overcome difficulties encountered as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a letter dated May 3, 2020, being circulated on social media, the President of the Church directed that members who have been paying tithes since May 2017 be refunded their tithes to serve as help during this coronavirus pandemic.
The letter reads in part, “The ongoing pandemic has created serious challenges for many members of Church, especially for those who suffered loss of employment and other financial setbacks due to economic problems. Our hearts go out to all members of the church during these trying times.
“The Lord has blessed his Church greatly during prior years of prosperity. We have felt impressed to consider what more the Lord would have us do to care for those in need.
“After much discussion, earnest pleading and heartfelt prayer to know the will of the Lord, we feel strongly that the Lord’s storehouse should be opened for a season for the blessing of His saints.
“We are pleased to announce a general Tithing Refund Program, TRP, to serve as a help in these difficult times. The Church will refund up to three years of tithing payment directly to members who have contributed in the past.”
The church added that both active and former members, who have paid tithes in the last three years, are qualified to receive the payment.
The letter added, “Eligible recipients include all active and less-active members, as well as all former members who paid tithing on or after May 1, 2017.
“Members should contact their Bishop or branch president to request a refund.”
