All They Want is My Money....

Years ago, before I stopped going to church, I used to think that all the church wanted was my money and maybe that's the way the message comes across in some parishes even today. Having been back in Church for a couple of years, getting involved in our parish and learning just a bit more about what it takes to keep the lights on, the heat going in the winter, the air cool in the summer, the snow shoveled, the roof from leaking, and more, I have changed my mind.

Ok, so I don't always personally benefit from the creature comforts or from the 41 or more active ministries in my parish on a daily basis, but it sure is nice to know the ministries are there if my family, friends or I need them and that the lights are on and the doors are open when I want to visit God's house.

Given all they do for so many of us my Pastor and our blessed visiting priest who assists him, truly deserve their salaries and much more. Now I don't know what they earn, but I am sure they are grossly underpaid, are working far more hours in any given week than I am, and yet will somehow always find time for me or any of us that need them. I often wonder who on earth looks out for them in their hours of need.

So yes my parish needs my financial support. I gladly help where I can, and what I can give is accepted without anyone passing judgment. My ability to give money or not though has no bearing on my personal value in our parish. If you feel something different than this in a Church you may visit, find another!