Maputo, Mozambique, Jun 28, 2007 / 12:15 pm (CNA).- Archbishop Francisco Chimoio of Maputo told the local publication Magazine Independiente this week that the archdiocese has launched a tithing campaign to “overcome the financial crisis and allow the archdiocese to achieve economic autonomy.”

Banners hanging in the Cathedral and in parishes around the archdiocese remind the faithful: “Giving a donation as a show of faith is the opportunity God gives us to become better persons.” 

Father Joao Carlos of the Archdiocese of Maputo said the tithing drive is a way “to make the church self-sufficient and independent,” and he added that this is year for tithing expansion for parishes.”

The plan is still being tested in the Mozambique capital but church officials hope to bring it to the entire country.  The population of Mozambique is approximately 20 percent Catholic.

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