In what ways did the church gain economic power during the Middle Ages

During the period of the Middle Ages the Church was very important to believers and as such it played a vital role in their everyday life. Due to the strong beliefs in the teachings of the church, people freely donated to the cause. The teaching of paying tides, that is giving ten percent of one's income is one factor that contributed to its wealth. Another is the fact that the church did not have to pay taxes.