The History of Tithing and Its Relevance to Rotary
I sometimes wonder if I am generous enough with my time and money, especially at a time when so many people are suffering financially. Searching for guidelines or standards for giving I came across ‘tithing’, an ancient practice that dates back thousands of years. The word "tithe" comes from the Old English term meaning "one-tenth," referring to the custom of giving ten percent of one's income, produce, or possessions for religious and charitable purposes. References to tithing appear in the Hebrew Scriptures, where individuals such as Abraham and Jacob offered a tenth of their wealth in gratitude and devotion. Later, tithing became an established practice in Jewish law, supporting religious institutions, community welfare, and those in need.
During the Christian era, tithing was adopted by many churches as a means of sustaining ministry and serving the poor. Throughout the Middle Ages, it became an important social institution, helping fund churches, schools, hospitals, and relief for vulnerable populations. While modern interpretations vary among faith traditions, the underlying principle remains consistent: individuals contribute a portion of their resources to advance the common good.
Although Rotary is a secular service organization rather than a religious one, the values behind tithing closely align with Rotary's mission. Rotary encourages members to place "Service Above Self," dedicating their time, talents, and financial resources to improve communities locally and globally. Through initiatives such as disease prevention, clean water projects, education programs, and disaster relief, Rotarians embody the spirit of voluntary giving that has characterized tithing for centuries.
The relevance of tithing to Rotary lies not in a prescribed percentage but in the principle of generosity and stewardship. Both traditions recognize that individuals have a responsibility to contribute to the welfare of others. By sharing resources and working together for positive change, Rotarians continue a long human tradition of giving that strengthens communities, fosters compassion, and promotes a more just and caring world.
PS – Yvonne and I will be vacationing in Sicily from September 24 to October 13. In my absence past-president Roger Tessier will run the weekly Rotary meeting on September 29th (Forum) and October 6th and past-president Ken Robertson will run the Rotary meeting on October 13th. Thank you Roger and Ken! In addition I have arranged for two Rotarians to write guest president messages in the weekly bulletin – Liz Bosma for September 29 and David Hawkins on October 6 and 13. Thanks Liz and David for your time and energy.
Quote of the week:
“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give”. Winston Churchill
Bad dad joke of the week:
I have a fear of elevators. I am taking steps to avoid it.
This Week's Zoom Meeting Details:
Topic: Weekly Rotary Meeting
Time: Sept 22, 2026 07:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
President Chris opened the meeting at 7:08 with 30 members present plus one guest, our Rotary Exchange student Yuna Fujii from Yokohama City, Japan. Yuna was introduced by Martha, gave a brief talk about herself and was warmly welcomed by the club. Yuna has a “wish list” for her time in Canada that includes, among other things, visiting Niagara Falls, the CN Tower, the ROM, Ottawa, and celebrating Halloween. Members are encouraged to get involved and Martha will send an email to members with the procedure for booking Yuna for outings.
Craig Mills from County FM was the scheduled speaker but will be rescheduled, so we moved directly to Club business.
Roger observed that the Bottle Depot has been extremely busy and Bottle Billy is having to send out an SOS on a regular basis to get sufficient manpower to staff all the shifts. He encouraged members to step up. Mike observed that a lot of boxes have been accumulated for the Foodbank and space is getting tight. Chris said the Foodbank does need the boxes, with Thanksgiving on the horizon, and the boxes can be moved to the Foodbank’s storage unit.
Chris announced that the Gleaners Food Bank is hosting a Regional Food Security Summit on September 29th. Anyone interested in attending can contact Gleaners at info@gleanersfoodbank.ca. This prompted a lively discussion about the Foodbank model and food insecurity.
Chris advised there will be a “Meet and Greet” with Councillor Corey Engelsdorfer on September 21st at 6:30 p.m. at the Highline Hall in Wellington.
Christine said she has a friend who might be able to provide breakfast for our weekly meeting.
Roger reported on this round of Fellowship Dinners, with 35 Rotarians involved. We want to encourage spouses/partners to feel part of the club. At the dinners, each guest is asked to give a 2 to 3-minute talk about themselves, and to provide a $5 donation, which will be accumulated to purchase gifts for one or more families from the Foodbank.
Dave R reported that the County Marathon now has 2300 participants for this year’s race.
Howard announced the pumpkin-weighing team for Pumpkinfest on Saturday, October 17th – both Teds, Mike, Colin, John, Chris, Dave R and Bill Pennell.
Trudy noted there are a number of opportunities to get involved in the Scottish Curling Bonspiel, even if you don’t curl. In addition to watching the matches and cheering on the local team, there will be lunch, winetasting and dinner. Let her or Phyo know ahead of time if you are interested in participating.
Shawn gave an update on his “Wake up Wellington” proposal. The County will finance a fireworks display, local businesses are enthusiastic, and he already has sponsorships for $2500 in prizes.
Upcoming Events:
October 4 – County Marathon
October 17 – Wellington Pumpkinfest
October 23-25 – Rotary District 7070 Conference in Toronto
November 4-5 – Scottish curling bonspiel
Birthdays: Liz, on Sep. 16
Anniversaries: Dawn and Bob, 49 years on Sep. 17;
Lana and Brad, 38 years on Sep.17;
Mike and Liz, 45 years on Sep. 19;
Geoff and Sue, 37 years on Sep.20.
50/50 Draw – John Hatch’s ticket was drawn but he did not pick the Ace. Just a few cards left and the pot keeps growing!
Chris closed the meeting at 8:30 with the Four-Way Test.
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Prez Chris and Martha with our Rotary Youth Exchange student, Yuna
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The Wellington on the Lake Residents Association and the Wellington Community Association are hosting a Meet and Greet with Councillor Corey Engelsdorfer on Monday September 21 at the LeHigh arena.
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September 26, Rotary Presidents Walk at the South Shore with our guide Mark
President Chris thanking Mark for our wonderful guided tour.
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50/50 Draw This Week: $1,407
Make sure you get your ticket(s) this week!
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Bottle Depot Volunteers Schedule for This Week
Note: volunteers are reminded to fill can bins to a maximum of no more than 260 dozen
Wednesday September 23, 2026
9 a.m. to 11 a.m.: John I, Alex (FoR), Lari (FoR), XXX
11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Gregor, John Hatch, Lari (FoR), XXX
