[disneysteve]

Originally Posted by Scanner

That Simpson's episode, thru it's witty humor, taught me to just be open about my practices, as I think the church's, temples, and synogogues should be open about theirs and not apologize or hide the fact they want 10%.

Synagogues work differently than churches in this regard. Typically, synagogues have a set dues structure. In most, all members in the same category pay the same dues, though I have heard of some that base your dues on your income. In ours, for example, there are set dues for single adults, single parents, families with no school age children, families with school age children and senior citizens (I think I'm missing a category or two on the list but you get the idea).

That said, there is also a confidential system in place for those who are unable to afford full dues. When we first joined, we were on a reduced payment plan. I had just finished school and had over 100K in student loans and was just getting started in my career and we had just bought our first home. We didn't have lots to spare for synagogue membership. But as the years went on, we gradually increased what we paid until we got up to full dues. Now we pay full dues and make various extra donations throughout the year, which indirectly helps subsidize those who aren't currently able to pay full dues.

Synagogues don't pass a plate around at services. Donations are done more privately than that. Yes, there are fund drives at certain times, but others don't see what you've given (or haven't given).