I've been wondering where the whole idea of "dues" - or to call them by a friendlier sounding term - assessments, originated.
When was the idea that that one had to pay a specific amount to the Church in order to be considered a "member" and to vote for parish elections, etc., started?
What is their purpose and why are they necessary?
In my jurisdiction, OCA, one is "assessed" a specific amount, per year that has to be paid or else you are not considered a member. I have
heard that if they are not kept up to date upon your repose, that you could be denied a full Orthodox funeral service. I put "heard" in italics because it could be hearsay and I don't want to be spreading rumours.
I have also been told that my "dues" are not to come out of my tithe, but are to be paid over and above the 10% of my income (the amount which my protestant upbringing has branded into my mind, which has subsequently carried over into Orthodoxy) which I donate to the church.
Why can't "dues" be taken out of my tithe? Any particular reason for this?
Also - is this idea of a "head tax" prevalent throughout all of Eastern Orthodoxy - Serbian, Greek, Antiochian, Ukrainian, ACROD, etc.?
Finally, to any of our Oriental Orthodox brethren, is the practice of charging people assessments also in your respective Churches?
Please share your thoughts on this and wisen me up!

In Christ,
Aaron