ST. PIUS X Catholic Community

Another aspect of our Lenten practice is "almsgiving." When we think of "almsgiving," we think of giving monetarily to the poor by way of charitable organizations to our parish, those whom we have supported beyond our parish or those who we meet along the way asking for money or food. Once, I was visiting a sick parishioner with another parishioner, and on our way back to the parish, she stopped and handed a man asking for money a gift card to "McDonald's." I noticed she had a number of them in her glove compartment. I was moved by her generosity and the gratefulness of the man who received this gift card. or those. It was a simple gesture of generosity, which was not in the "Season of Lent" reminding me that "almsgiving" is just not only for the "Season of Lent" throughout the year. 

When it comes to "almsgiving," I think of the impact it has on those who receive such generosity. We may not see it immediately, but we do believe it will have some impact on the recipient. Yet, I hear some say, especially those on the street corner, that they are going to use for alcohol or drugs but is it for us to question what they are going to use it for or for use to give. I remember saying this to the pastor of St. Lawrence Parish in Batesville, IN. when I was an associate pastor there.

Upon my arrival, Fr. Ric, the pastor, showed me what he called the "night rider" box. The "night rider" box contained a number of $10 bills. If someone came to the door at night asking for food and lodging, the churches in the Batesville, IN. area set-up with a local hotel overnight accommodation fund and a food voucher for them to stay and have something to eat. Then, from this "night rider" box, we gave them a $10 bill. I asked Fr. Ric if he believed that they would use for what it was intended to be used for and not for alcohol. His response was this: "what they do with it, is their decision, but what we do, is a call to charity which is our responsibility." I believe this is a good approach to "almsgiving." 

May Lent continue to be a spiritual enriching one on our journey to Easter.

Fr. Dennis