A Bisaya Prayer for Tithes and Offerings: Giving with a Grateful Heart
In the vibrant Bisaya culture of the Visayas and parts of Mindanao, faith is woven into the fabric of daily life. For the Cebuano-speaking Bisaya people, giving tithes and offerings is more than a religious duty—it’s an act of gratitude, trust, and devotion to God. Accompanying this practice is prayer, which sanctifies the act of giving and connects the giver to the divine purpose behind it. A Bisaya prayer for tithes and offerings reflects the community’s deep appreciation for God’s blessings and their commitment to sharing with others.
The Significance of Tithes and Offerings in Bisaya Faith
Tithing and offering are rooted in the belief that everything comes from God, and returning a portion of one’s blessings is a way to honor Him. In Bisaya communities, this practice is often observed during church services, where families bring their contributions—whether money, goods, or time—as a symbol of stewardship and faith. The prayer that accompanies this act is a heartfelt expression of thanks and a plea for continued provision, spoken in the native Cebuano tongue that resonates deeply with the people.
Below is an example of a Bisaya prayer for tithes and offerings, followed by its English translation.
A Bisaya Prayer for Tithes and Offerings
Bisaya (Cebuano):
“Ginoo nga Amahan, puno sa gugma ug kaayo,
Salamat sa Imong walay kataposang mga grasya,
Kami nagtanyag Kaniadto niining among mga gasa,
Ang among ikapulo ug halad nga puno sa pagtoo.
Dawata kini, Ginoo, uban sa among kasingkasing,
Ug gamita kini alang sa Imong kahimayaan,
Panalanginan ang among kinabuhi ug paningkamot,
Aron kami magpadayon sa pag-ambit sa Imong kaabunda.
Amen.”
English Translation:
“Lord our Father, full of love and goodness,
Thank You for Your endless graces,
We offer to You these gifts of ours,
Our tithes and offerings filled with faith.
Accept them, Lord, with our hearts,
And use them for Your glory,
Bless our lives and efforts,
So we may continue to share in Your abundance.
Amen.”
Understanding the Prayer
This prayer captures the essence of giving in Bisaya spirituality. It opens with gratitude (“Salamat sa Imong walay kataposang mga grasya”), acknowledging God as the source of all blessings. The act of offering is presented with humility (“Kami nagtanyag Kaniadto”), and the prayer seeks God’s acceptance and purpose for the gifts (“gamita kini alang sa Imong kahimayaan”). Finally, it asks for blessings to sustain the giver’s ability to keep sharing, reflecting the communal spirit of the Bisaya people.
How to Use This Prayer
This prayer can be recited during a church service as the congregation prepares to give their tithes and offerings, or it can be said privately at home when setting aside a portion of one’s earnings. In many Bisaya households, it’s common to place the offering in a small envelope or basket, sometimes accompanied by a moment of silence or a hymn, to emphasize the sacredness of the act.
A Tradition of Generosity
For the Bisaya, giving tithes and offerings is not just about fulfilling an obligation—it’s a joyful response to God’s provision. The prayer ties this act to a broader purpose: supporting the church, helping the needy, and building a stronger community. It’s a reminder that generosity flows from a heart touched by faith, a value deeply cherished in Bisaya culture.
Whether spoken in a packed chapel or a quiet home, this Bisaya prayer for tithes and offerings carries a timeless message: to give is to trust, and to trust is to receive even more in spirit.
