The unstable financial effects of the economy are trickling down the chain but for some that just means Sunday is another day at work.
That's because churchgoers are trying to tackle what could be a future of tithing troubles.
Grace United Methodist is a small church with about 60 members on any given Sunday. But members have a lot to give.
"We give to the church every month," church member Stanley Peterman said.
Peterman has been a member since 1937. He joined when he was 10-years-old and met and married his wife Jennie in the sanctuary. He's seen the ups and downs through the years.
"There were times when we had 350,360 people in here believe it or not. But [as] time's gone by, [we] just can't get the interest," Peterman said
That lack of interest makes members want to give more, but for some those weekly or monthly tithes are becoming a bit more troublesome.
"Individuals who want to get to that 10 percent might have a more difficult time upping that at this time," Church Treasurer Adam Fambrough said.
Like many churches, the Grace congregation was blessed with an endowment fund from a former member. The investment helps with the church's overall budget.
Reverend Linda Kessie said it's taken a hit.
"Yes that's gone down. I'm trying not to look at what it's doing right now. It's in there for the long haul. The giving this year that comes to us from that endowment fund maybe even greatly reduced, but it will come back," Kessie said.
Stanley Peterman said he has faith the church he's gone to for 71 years will survive the toughest of financial times.
"You just go day by day and thank the Lord you're here to worship him and see the people," Peterman said.
News 8 called around to several other churches in the Austin area. Some pastors with both big and small congregations say they're experiencing a drain on donations. Other churches with endowment funds have also taken a hit.
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Tithing troubles
How will churches counter the shaky economy when it comes to tithing troubles they may face.
 
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Some church officials say as they start to plan for next year's budget, projects will be put on hold until they see how the money will pan out.
