Three Pillars of Lent: Prayer, Fasting, Almsgiving

ALMSGIVING: The third Lenten practice is almsgiving. Almsgiving is the act of giving to the poor. Through almsgiving we share God’s love with others and we recognize that the gifts we have are not really our own.   If the thing you are fasting from leaves a little extra money in your pocket, then give that money to a worthy charity which helps the poor.  You can also donate goods. If you really want to push yourself, give your time in direct service to another. Volunteer at a soup kitchen or visit a shut in. Acts of service such as these can also be considered almsgiving, especially if you do them with the intention of sharing your gifts. And who knows, you might receive a gift yourself. You might encounter Jesus in the faces of those you are serving.
 

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So, what could you and your family do with ALMSGIVING this Lent?

Donations of funds: Prayerfully consider a donation to our parish, school, or diocese this Lent. Any contribution would be greatly appreciated.

• Parish - Link: One-Time Donation. To donate, click on "Give Now" under Sunday Offertory and then select "One Time".
• St. Mary's School - Link: Annual Fund. To donate, click on "Give Now" under SMS Annual Fund and then select the frequency that best fits your means.
• Diocese - Link: Catholic Ministries Appeal (CMA) To donate, choose "One-Time Gift", "Recurring Gift", or "Sustaining Gift". Note: St. Benedict Parish's CMA # is 365.

Acts of Service: You could make a LENTEN CHAIN OF KIND DEEDS and take off one link each day.  Click here to download and print the Lenten Chain of Kind Deeds