Alms are a type of giving where you give directly to other people and not through the church. Some examples of alms-giving include:
The Catholic Church considers almsgiving "a witness to fraternal charity" and "a work of justice pleasing to God" (Catechism of the Catholic Church, No. 2462).
Almsgiving is the act of donating money or goods to the poor or performing other acts of charity. However, when defining almsgiving, it helps to understand the meaning behind the word itself.
The roots of the word “alms” can be found in ancient Latin and Greek words meaning mercy and pity. Similarly, the root of the word “charity” comes from the Latin “caritas,” meaning love.
If the word “almsgiving” conjures up images of Lent, fish fries, parish soup suppers and giving to the rice bowl—then you are in good company.
But many Catholics are surprised to learn that the practice of giving alms isn't just a Lenten spiritual discipline. It is meant to be a year-round exercise, an integral part of our spiritual lives, and can be a tool that leads us to a deeper union with Jesus Christ and the universal church.
Together, let’s dive into the spiritual discipline of almsgiving and learn how we can incorporate it into our lives.
