Written by You

Coconuts and Tithing

By Avehei M., age 11, Tahiti, French Polynesia

Hi! My name is Avehei. I live in Tahiti! On my island, I love to be outside. I go on hikes and swim in the river or ocean. I also enjoy doing things with my family. I like to cook, play card games, and hike. I love to play ball and climb trees with my brother and cousins.

During summer break, I work with my brother in a coconut grove. We gather coconuts and put them in a big pile. We also gather dead leaves so the grove stays clean.

Our great-grandfather pays us when we work in the grove. I always pay my tithing with the money I receive. I learned from my family and Primary teachers how to pay tithing.

I pay tithing because I know that my family and I are blessed when I obey. I am blessed with my family, a house, and a beautiful world around me.

I know that God lives and that He loves me. I thank Heavenly Father for the family He gave me.

What Is Tithing?

Members of the Church share one-tenth of their income with God’s Church. Our tithing money helps build temples and churches and helps people in need. Tithing is one way we share our blessings with others. God gave us this commandment long ago, during Old Testament times (see Genesis 14:18–20). Paying tithing is a way to show our love for Heavenly Father.