I am new to organized religion, and we have begun to learn about our local UU and attend some events and services. We would love to connect and give back to our community more, but I’m a little at odds, wondering if I am being a little bit stingy or self-oriented in nature, if that makes me a poor fit to the community?

I would like to introduce our toddler to diverse people and families, and lead by example that all people are worthy, and also teach her about giving back. My household is pretty high earning (about $300k/annually) and we have some of our own financial goals (supporting a good education and growing family, supporting aging parents, early retirement). When it comes down to it, I just don’t want to give 10% (or even 5%) of my income away. I am comfortable with committing to $5k in the first year, and increasing $1k a year until we reach $10k, and hold steady at that. I know that joining a church should not be about money, but I’m wondering if I feel this sense of covering my needs first (including the needs of those who are most important to me), is that at odds with the ethos of the UU community?