Today is Giving Tuesday, a global day of generosity and the perfect time to reflect on the Catholic Church’s remarkable legacy of charity. From its humble beginnings, the Church has taught—and carried out—Jesus’s commandment to care for the poor and others who too often are forgotten by society. And as individual members of the body of Christ, we are obliged to do our part as we follow the call and example of Our Lord and his Church, each according to his own means.
Yet, critics sometimes question whether the Church or its members do enough, pointing to the Vatican’s treasures or the Church’s perceived wealth as reasons for doubt. Frankly, many such skeptics are first driven by a disdain for the Church’s religious teachings and then extrapolate their hostility into poorly founded criticisms of its charitable works. However, the truth is that for nearly 2,000 years, Catholic charity has been changing the world for the better.
The Catholic Church’s commitment to charity is as old as Christianity itself. While Jesus walked the earth, he exhorted his followers to serve the least among us (Matthew 25:31-46). In the Acts of the Apostles after Our Lord’s death, resurrection, and ascension to heaven, the early Church established organized community support—those who had more resources shared with those who had less—ensuring “there was not a needy person among them” (Acts 4:34-35). This spirit of giving grew into a central and distinguishing characteristic of the Christian life, a tradition that endures today and touches nearly every facet of the human condition in a positive way.
Over the centuries, the Catholic Church has founded hospitals, schools, orphanages, and food programs, many of which remain pillars of their communities. Through not only large global organizations but also local parish outreach programs, the Church continues to serve millions worldwide, addressing issues like hunger, disaster relief, education, and healthcare.
In America alone, Catholic Charities USA serves over 15 million people annually, regardless of faith. Every year, the Knights of Columbus donates nearly 50 million hours of service to charitable efforts around the world. Globally, the Church is second to none in her consistent advocacy for human dignity and works of mercy.
Jesus commanded his followers to “sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven” (Luke 18:22). This represents deep sacrificial love, another distinguishing feature of Christian living. It is foundational to Catholic teaching on almsgiving and particularly relevant today as every Christian is called to participate in this mission of charity, whether through personal service, prayer, or financial support.
This Giving Tuesday, we invite you to partner with Catholic Answers as we explain the truth of the Catholic faith, evangelize a culture which needs Jesus Christ more than ever, and defend every aspect of the Catholic faith—including the Church’s mission of charity. Let’s show the world that the Church’s commitment to loving our neighbor is as vibrant today as it has been for centuries.