A Longitudinal Study of Parochial Contributions: A Pilot Study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Parishioners' contributions are analyzed for a U.S. Roman Catholic church covering a 22-year period. Inflation-adjusted statistics are offered along with trend analysis including breakdowns on a yearly, monthly and weekly basis. Unlike surveys which may rely on memory and be vulnerable to sociat pressure, the data used in this study is directly observable and based on dollar tabulations-actual giving. The analysis may offer a point of comparison for future studies to uncover current Catholic giving trends. This information may be useful for administrators in forecasting revenues for more effective budget preparation.