Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you, but do so with gentleness and reverence.”

cf. 1 Peter 3:15-16

catechesis

A daily morsel of Catholic education and faith formation.

Church

Wealth of the …

QUESTION OR COMMON OBJECTION:

The Church is very rich. It should give away all its money to the poor.

CATHOLIC ANSWER:

The Church gives more charity to the world than any other private organization, providing help to millions of people. Its wealth is for the good of humanity, not for its own glory.

This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.”

1 Corinthians 4:1

The Church is the steward – not the owner – of its many valuable works of art, literature, and property.  These works are intended for the use and spiritual inspiration of all people.  Selling them would not eliminate the world’s poverty, but it would make it poorer spiritually. When you think of beautiful works of art, like the masterpieces and architecture one would see in the Sistine Chapel in Rome, for example, it’s no doubt such works can stir the consciousness of the viewer; inspiring to mind God and the goodness, truth, and beauty of his creation.

The fine arts, but above all sacred art, “of their nature are directed toward expressing in some way the infinite beauty of God in works made by human hands….”

Catechism of the Catholic Church (2513)

The wealth of the Catholic Church are gifts for all mankind. They are treasures to be shared; treasures to stir the conscience, and to orient the heart of man to the fulfillment of his deepest longing – for the desire for God is written in every human heart.

So, like St. Paul, let us appreciate such beauty. Let us not fall into such a cynical, utilitarian view otherwise.

Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”

Saint Paul, Letter to the Philippians (4:8)

Other References:  Col 3:14; 1 Pet 4:10; CCC 826, 771, 791, 815

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catechism of the Catholic Church

For information about what the Catholic Church believes, answers to FAQs, and an encompassing resource addressing common objections and misconceptions non-Catholics and Catholics alike may have about the Church and what it teaches, we invite you to visit the online version of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. 

PRAYER

Let us pray.

Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel

St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle.

Be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the Devil.

May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly hosts, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan, and all the evil spirits, who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls.

Amen.

It is Jesus that you seek when you dream of happiness; He is waiting for you when nothing else you find satisfies you.”

Saint John Paul II, pope

 

Jesus, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life (cf. John 6:68).

 

Be not afraid!  And may the peace of Christ be with you and your loved ones today and always.  Holy Family, pray for us.  Amen.