Church announcements usually include things like bake sales, choir rehearsals, and reminders about the upcoming potluck. But one pastor recently added something a little different to the list.
Tax returns. Yes, you read that correctly.
From a viral footage, a pastor told members of his congregation that he wants to review their tax returns because the tithes and offerings have been looking a little suspicious lately. In his words, some church members are “playing in his face.”
And apparently, the way to solve that problem is by requesting IRS-level documentation. Bold strategy.
For those unfamiliar, tithing traditionally means giving about 10 percent of your income to the church. It’s supposed to be voluntary. You know, something between you, your faith, and maybe a quiet envelope.
Not you, your faith, and a full financial audit.
But this pastor seems convinced something isn’t adding up. In his mind, some members might be earning solid paychecks Monday through Friday, then suddenly forgetting basic math when the offering plate shows up on Sunday.
Pastor told his congregation to bring copies of their tax returns so he can review them:
"I’m gonna put a stop to some of y’all playing in my face during tithes and offerings"
— My Mixtapez (@mymixtapez) March 10, 2026
Now, before everyone starts panicking, it’s not clear whether this demand is actually being enforced or if it’s just a very dramatic attempt to encourage better giving. But either way, the internet had a field day with the story.
Social media users immediately started cracking jokes.
Some people said church members might start filing for “tithe deductions.” Others joked that the pastor is about to open the first congregation with its own accounting department.
Imagine showing up to church and hearing this announcement:
“Before communion, please submit your W-2 forms to the ushers.”
Suddenly the offering plate might start moving a little slower through the pews.
To be fair, pastors do rely on donations to keep churches running. Buildings cost money, programs cost money, electricity definitely costs money, and when the numbers drop, someone is going to ask questions.
But requesting tax returns from the congregation might be the most aggressive fundraising strategy anyone has seen in a while.
Still, the pastor seems serious about one thing: honesty.
In his view, if members are being blessed financially, the church should see some of that blessing too.
Whether the congregation agrees is another story entirely.
One thing is certain though: next Sunday might be the first church service where people double-check their bank statements before saying amen.
