The offering of Mass stipends is an ancient tradition in the Church. The priest who celebrates the Holy Mass does so for the intentions of the person who has given the Mass offering, whether it be for a sick person or the soul of a departed loved one or for some other private intention. The money given is in no sense a "payment“ for the Mass but rather a free gift, given in gratitude and for the material support of the priest himself. For many priests in the poorest parts of the world, who often have no other means of support, such Mass offerings are a vital contribution to their survival and to their work on behalf of the whole parish.
Note: Mass offerings are charged in Australian dollars.