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PASTOR GENERAL'S REPORT, APRIL 15, 1983
PAGE 5
distributed to the brethren in each local Church area at Sabbath services.
While on the surface this suggestion may seem to have merit, we would like
to explain why it would not be practical or economical.
The logistics and setup of such a system would be very· involved and compli
cated--both here in Pasadena and on the receiving end at individual
Churches. The coordination, counting, packaging and other preparation {or
shipping the literature would become a mammoth project--tying up mu'\:h
labor, time and materials.
A distribution system would also be required for each church. A designated
member would have to keep track of the number of each publication needed
from month to month and record who did or did not receive a given issue.
This would entail a great deal of work on the Sabbath. Other potential
problems involve waiting in long lines to receive the magazines, the temp
tation to read them during services, and possibly even leaving them behind!
Also, members who cannot attend services regularly or who become ill or
visit another Church area might not receive their literature for weeks.
Extra coI,Jies could be sent in anticipation of visitors, however, there
would undoubtedly be either shortages or surplus copies that would be dis
carded.
Currently, our monthly publications are mailed to all subscribers at once-
including coworkers and regulars as well as members.
Making one large
mailing enables us to maximize the advantages of our computer filing system.
and zip code sorting, which speeds delivery. More importantly, each maga
zine is individually addressed to those who ·subscribe to it, ensuring that
everyone automatically receives his personal copy. Most items are sent by
special bulk mail rates, available only to nonprofit organizations. These
are still quite economical--at present just 5.2¢ per piece. Packages of
the size and weight that would be needed for local Church distribution
would not qualify for these reduced rates.
Clearly, our current delivery method is the most efficient and cost effec
tive way to dispense the literature to the brethren.
Tithe Payers Receive Employment Blessings
Although many members have faced tests and trials in relation to their
employment, most eventually have been blessed with fine jobs. They have
found that if they faithfully tithe and look to God to provide for their
needs, He does provide--often in unexpected and dramatic ways. The follow
ing letters show some exceptional job blessings.
Today, my wife and I are sending o � r first tithe check. It isn't
a significant amount in comparison to a lot of people's.
However, we feel it's noteworthy, because amid the bad economy
and job layoffs of friends in the same trade working right beside
us, we have continued to have a good income and steady work.
I have been employed in the logging industry here in Oregon for
some twelve years. In this trade it is normal to lose a few
month's work each year. However, for the last two years I have
had steady work and even turned down some jobs.
The pay has
stayed the same, but with continuous work, my income has grown by
some 15 percent per year.
Of that income, God's tithe is