Almsgiving: an Expression of Our Closeness to the Poor. Conclusion

by Fr. Tony Okolo C.S.Sp., V.F.  |  04/13/2025  |  Weekly Reflection

Beloved Parishioners,

I wish to conclude my reflection on almsgiving which was started last week. As I said previously, almsgiving is a strong component of our Lenten observance and when practiced in humility draws the person closer to God and to the poor. Furthermore, almsgiving during Lent invites the Church to consider the root causes of poverty.

While it is important to address immediate material needs, Lent calls for a deeper reflection on how societal structures and individual behaviors contribute to inequality. True solidarity with the poor goes beyond the act of giving and involves advocating for a more just and equitable world. In this sense, almsgiving during Lent becomes an opportunity not only to help the needy but to work toward lasting social change.

Considered from a spiritual perspective, the Bible assures us that “almsgiving saves from death and purges away every sin. Those who give alms are doing a great thing and will be greatly rewarded.” (Tobit 132:9), but we must be careful to maintain the right attitude to almsgiving. We must not give alms for a show because that displeases God. Matthew 6:1-4 cautions us thus: “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. So, when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men.”

Beloved parishioners, having been here for some time now, I can testify to the generosity of many of you. I’d like to encourage you all that your small efforts at charity, our little struggles to accomplish almsgiving, and the community project that we embark on as a parish through which we try to improve the life of those who are poor, isolated, struggling, are our own way of participating in the kingdom project of Christ. Everything about how we do it and the manner we indulge in it should represent what we stand for. Pope Paul VI reminds us that modern man is best impressed by example of witnesses like us more than a long sermon. As we generously give alms during this holy season, may our hearts and lives be transformed, and may we be challenged to build a more compassionate and just world. Amen.

Finally, as we begin this Holy Week, I would passionately appeal to everyone to make extra commitment to participating in all the Holy Week celebrations beginning from Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter celebration. There are flyers out at the Narthex for all the Masses for the Easter period. Your active participation is highly encouraged as we walk together with Christ till the end of the season.