Well, the Pope blew it on this one. Giving to panhandlers and bums on the street merely perpetuates this parasitic life style.
33
Walking in Saigon, I stopped to give a beggar some money, when all of a sudden two guys on a motor bike zipped by, grabbing my shoulder bag, dragging me into the road. Fortunately they pulled so hard that the strap pulled out of the bag and I fell to the ground, badly bruised but alive. Sadly I no longer give to street beggars.
32
I always have a packaged snack (granola bar, orange,etc) in my bag for sharing.
56
A San Francisco Chronicle columnist, Jon Carroll, had a practice -- during the winter holidays -- called the "The Untied Way". From his November 13, 2015 column, "When you give your clients a $20 bill, try to look them in the eyes. Ask them how they’re doing. Introduce yourself by name. Do anything to acknowledge your shared humanity." His advice was to take money from your ATM -- "Take as many ($20 bills) as you feel comfortable with, and then take a little more. It’s good if you feel a twinge; that means you’re doing it right." Though he encouraged this during the holidays, I am guessing any time of year would be welcome.
I have always remembered this practice and I don't always do it. I love this Pope and I have started giving more money to the homeless recently -- without judgment. The hardest part is having cash but now I have a bit more incentive to go to my ATM . Generosity is always good.
I have always remembered this practice and I don't always do it. I love this Pope and I have started giving more money to the homeless recently -- without judgment. The hardest part is having cash but now I have a bit more incentive to go to my ATM . Generosity is always good.
101
I don't get it. To everyone who says "He (or she) is just going to buy booze or drugs with it," well... wouldn't YOU? Maybe that's not the best possible choice of how to spend that money--but maybe it is. An instant of gratification in a cold, dark, likely foreshortened life is not nothing.
Worst case scenario, you've made someone happy for an instant. Whether that person is an addict, an alcoholic, a (God forbid!) scam artist, or a "deserving" poor person who is going to "properly" spend it on warm food or clothing... you've given that person a flash of happiness.
Nobody is forcing you to take that action, and you shouldn't feel guilty if you choose not to. But if you choose to... you made someone happy for a moment. You could surely have spent that time and treasure in a worse way.
Go in peace.
Worst case scenario, you've made someone happy for an instant. Whether that person is an addict, an alcoholic, a (God forbid!) scam artist, or a "deserving" poor person who is going to "properly" spend it on warm food or clothing... you've given that person a flash of happiness.
Nobody is forcing you to take that action, and you shouldn't feel guilty if you choose not to. But if you choose to... you made someone happy for a moment. You could surely have spent that time and treasure in a worse way.
Go in peace.
144
Those of us who are economically comfortable in life have a choice: give to institutions that provide support for the needy (and hold fancy fund raisers), or give directly to the downtrodden we encounter on the streets. A donation to an institution is encouraged by current tax law--IT'S DEDUCTIBLE!!!!--even much of the cost of the fancy fund raisers. Why not change the tax law so there is no deduction for contributions to "charitable organizations" at all? Billions of additional dollars from increased tax collections would be available for government assistance to the needy. And we would be able to give larger amounts directly to wretched fellow humans we encounter in our daily lives.
33
Compassion trumps doctrine. Sounds like Jesus himself (remember the Good Samaritan?). Always timely; thank you!
73
My mom, a coffee shop waitress for 60 years, ALWAYS gave. Then she would turn to me and say, "I always say little girl, there but for the grace of God. There but for the grace of God." Compassion and humility. She would have loved this Pope.
125
And when has the Catholic Church EVER given out bad advice? Thank you Francis for this brilliant dictum. Happy that in contributing to alcoholism and drug addiction, I will appear to be non-judgemental. At last an opportunity to feel good about myself.
13
Compassion, yes, but care NOT cash!
18
A decade ago, I went to Paris with my uncle and aunt and we were staying in the 16th Arrondissement.
On our way to the Metro my uncle told me to give 15 euros to the homeless guy over there...I gave him a "fuggedaboutit" look. I was quickly admonished and reminded that his father, my grandfather, always reminded us that: 1] don't be selfish, 2] remember that the "bum" could be Jesus testing us to make certain we are following his words in Matthew 19 “If you would be perfect, go and sell what you have, and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. And come, follow Me.” and 3] always remember the golden rule.
It was the reawakening after so many years...of lessons learned as a child and that EVERYONE on this planet should be treated with dignity and respect.
On our way to the Metro my uncle told me to give 15 euros to the homeless guy over there...I gave him a "fuggedaboutit" look. I was quickly admonished and reminded that his father, my grandfather, always reminded us that: 1] don't be selfish, 2] remember that the "bum" could be Jesus testing us to make certain we are following his words in Matthew 19 “If you would be perfect, go and sell what you have, and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. And come, follow Me.” and 3] always remember the golden rule.
It was the reawakening after so many years...of lessons learned as a child and that EVERYONE on this planet should be treated with dignity and respect.
92
Growing up Jewish in the 50's , in my house you just didn't mention the word Jesus , although my mother would remind me from time to time that "Jesus was Jewish you know ".
I never understood the full meaning of that until I saw a biography on the history channel about Jesus Christ where I really learned about this religious compassionate Jew named Jesus who stayed away from home worrying his mother , as he spent hours teaching the Talmud to his Jewish community when the Romans had fobidden it .
This Jewish scholar was an activist among his poor Jewish people who bravely fought when their land was taken away from them after Romans added such high taxes to the point that the amount of taxes was more than their income. The only way to pay off their taxes was to sell their land.
Ever since I saw that documentary , I have felt even prouder to be Jewish and proud of this great Jew named Jesus who fought the establishment, helped the poor, and worked to spread good will throughout the corrupt world he was living in. He was a hero.
Whether or not I believe that Jesus was the son of God is irrelevant . He did exist, he was a Jew , he was a good Jew and isn't that all we need for us to come together as Jews and Christians and say that are we are all on the same page with this ?
I love Pope Francis . He is a true leader who has the courage to be fearless from the binds of politics.
Now , get Ryan back to Catechism .
I never understood the full meaning of that until I saw a biography on the history channel about Jesus Christ where I really learned about this religious compassionate Jew named Jesus who stayed away from home worrying his mother , as he spent hours teaching the Talmud to his Jewish community when the Romans had fobidden it .
This Jewish scholar was an activist among his poor Jewish people who bravely fought when their land was taken away from them after Romans added such high taxes to the point that the amount of taxes was more than their income. The only way to pay off their taxes was to sell their land.
Ever since I saw that documentary , I have felt even prouder to be Jewish and proud of this great Jew named Jesus who fought the establishment, helped the poor, and worked to spread good will throughout the corrupt world he was living in. He was a hero.
Whether or not I believe that Jesus was the son of God is irrelevant . He did exist, he was a Jew , he was a good Jew and isn't that all we need for us to come together as Jews and Christians and say that are we are all on the same page with this ?
I love Pope Francis . He is a true leader who has the courage to be fearless from the binds of politics.
Now , get Ryan back to Catechism .
126
The Pope is correct - but, like so many other things we should be doing for others, it becomes easy to rationalize our way to not doing them.
I find being approached by panhandlers one of the most annoying experiences of being in an urban environment - probably because it reminds me of how fortunate I have been and how unfortunate he or she has been.
In lieu of cash, I wish I could provide something the person truly needs. But, as previously admitted, I don't.
I find being approached by panhandlers one of the most annoying experiences of being in an urban environment - probably because it reminds me of how fortunate I have been and how unfortunate he or she has been.
In lieu of cash, I wish I could provide something the person truly needs. But, as previously admitted, I don't.
20
Yeah I always look the guys over before I give, but one hopes it helps even a bit. One street person I usually bought flowers from nicknamed me "Charlie Brown."
11
Methinks the Pope needs to spend some time in the real world. There is an intersection with the freeway near us that sports a professional panhandling family. It appears to be that it is an older father, a son or daughter and their spouse, but they never work together, always singly. The younger man alternately works the line in a wheel chair. The older man occasionally plays a hand organ. They've been at this for over a year.
A Freakonomics study found that panhandlers refused monetary offers to buy their handmade cardboard signs. They worried that 'new' signs would decrease the credibility that they were 'homeless' or 'hungry' or 'desperate.' So they opted to keep their signs rather than take the substantial offers.
Now, there are truly people who need help. It's best to winnow requests through a church or legitimate charity - they have procedures to separate wheat from chaff.
Pope Francis -- your heart is in the right place to live Jesus' message. But you need to be careful.
A Freakonomics study found that panhandlers refused monetary offers to buy their handmade cardboard signs. They worried that 'new' signs would decrease the credibility that they were 'homeless' or 'hungry' or 'desperate.' So they opted to keep their signs rather than take the substantial offers.
Now, there are truly people who need help. It's best to winnow requests through a church or legitimate charity - they have procedures to separate wheat from chaff.
Pope Francis -- your heart is in the right place to live Jesus' message. But you need to be careful.
23
I really like what Pope Francis has to say on this subject. However, I will continue to give money to the poorest and those most in need, but take a pass on others. We have so many homeless here that we need to be strategic about our giving. So, yes connect with the person in need and give them money, but also support the local organizations that serve these folks every day.
23
POPE FRANCIS Is a man whom I intensely admire for his holistic embracing of humankind. He embodies the original meaning, in Greek, of the word catholic, meaning attached to everything or to the whole. And I feel like something of a cad questioning the outpouring of his generous heart. But I wonder if, saintly man that he is, is aware that many panhandlers are career con artists who use their ill-gotten gains to live a life a crime (including consuming illegal substances). Also, there is an epidemic of drug deaths and overdoses in the US due to opioid abuse. In fact some cities actually have a program where they will sell opioid antidotes to trained volunteers for $1 so they can save lives. I do not judge, not even the rights of those who choose to end their own lives with drug overdoses. But I cannot, in all good conscience, support funding the purchase of drugs that may kill purchases using in part or wholly my donation to them, which enabled them to obtain the lethal dose. I could live with walking around with small bags of trail mix to give to those who would take it. Then there's the problem of severe allergic reactions to tree nuts and/or peanuts. Clearly there are many reasons to give without doubting the spirit of generosity. But there are also valid reasons fo refrain from giving in order to protect the lives of others. I see, tragically, a Hobbsian choice for those who donate funds to unmonitored programs. Not that any social programs are perfect.
7
I've always been if the opinion that since I will probably use the dollar for booze there's no reason someone else shouldn't
80
Utter nonsense. Many money beggars are total frauds -- it's a full-time job, free of taxes. They put away their money sign, hop into their leased BMW, and drive home.
And Francis is a fraud, as is the Roman Catholic Church, as are all religions. There is no Santa Clause in the sky. Francis, if you are so concerned about the panhandlers, why don't you divest the Church of the billions of dollars in real estate and mansions and artwork, and run around the globe handing them fistfuls of money. Instead of goading gullible "believers" into forking over their meager resources using the garbage philosophy they have an "obligation" to do so. They do not. Nor will they ever.
And Francis is a fraud, as is the Roman Catholic Church, as are all religions. There is no Santa Clause in the sky. Francis, if you are so concerned about the panhandlers, why don't you divest the Church of the billions of dollars in real estate and mansions and artwork, and run around the globe handing them fistfuls of money. Instead of goading gullible "believers" into forking over their meager resources using the garbage philosophy they have an "obligation" to do so. They do not. Nor will they ever.
34
I was interested to see that the link for the pope's advice being scripturally sound refers us to Jesus' encounter with the rich young man in Matthew 19. Perhaps more a propos is Jesus' teaching from the sermon on the mount, "Give to everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to borrow from you" (Matthew 5.42). Presbyterian minister Eugene Peterson anticipates the pushback reflected in many of the readers' comments in his translation of this verse: "And if someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life. No more tit-for-tat stuff. Live generously." (The Message) Thanks for this timely editorial. Confounding, even subversive, indeed.
54
I always give whatever spare money I have in my pockets to the homeless. I think someone in such terrible straits could use some kindness as well as the spare change.
52
Here in Newton, there are no homeless living on the streets. The police would probably remove them. Guess it would not reflect on the quality of life in an upscale community. I live here only by chance as a NYC expat. It's a great city with virtually no crime with an Africa- American mayor and very few African American residents. Whenever I'm in NYC I have always had mixed feeling of guilt and self-judgment about the sad soul with his or her hand out. There but by the grace of ...... oh never mind that. They may use my loose change to support a habit or by a cup of coffee. What was the source of the loose change I was willing to part with? My hard work, retirement income, social security none of which I would have if I hadn't by chance and luck or the role of the dice. The Pope after all is just a human surrounded by enormous wealth, has not forgotten his humble roots as a priest. I'm agnostic and have no right to stand in judgment of the human foibles of how our life's condition turns out. The loose change or crinkled dollar will not buy me a ticket to the world beyond but it will at least in that moment of exchange with another human connect our shared humanity. Less I could not offer, more I may not be able to give. Our paths have crossed if for a moment. I feel a little more compassion for my fellow earth traveler.
74
At Civic Center Plaza in San Francisco, a panhandler asked me for a dollar. I reflexively replied, "I don't have a dollar."
His answer: "You should learn to manage your money better."
I paid for the sound advice.
His answer: "You should learn to manage your money better."
I paid for the sound advice.
74
As a former street chaplain I might dare to add one thought to what the good pope says. Rather than money, consider what a person may really be asking for, that human touch and a little time. Francis suggests this, but in my experience, taking someone for a sandwich or a hot meal is much more meaningful and relational than dropping a dollar or just a handshake, though that may be the best we can do while hurrying to " something more important."
16
Look, can we all agree that we live in a pretty tough country and culture when it comes to finances? A health issue -- often something you have no control over -- can rack up thousands of dollars that you don't have. This country barely has maternity/paternity leave. Mental health issues often receive inadequate treatment due to inadequate coverage, especially among the poor. That goes for physical therapy as well. There are plenty of reasons (or a collage of reasons) why someone could be homeless.
I am in favor of helping someone who asks for help as opposed to denying them because they MIGHT be lying.
I am in favor of helping someone who asks for help as opposed to denying them because they MIGHT be lying.
28
A few years ago I took a meditation class and the teacher would give out dollar bills every week and our assignment was to give the dollar away much as Francis describes here: with a moment of real presence and connection. I did not keep up the practice, but am newly inspired. I'm also so excited, touched, grateful–I don't even know the word–to have a significant religious leader on the planet who, is guided by true compassion and by the spirit of his faith and not by archaic, inflexible text.
38
I spend less and less time in the city in that the shine is gone. Since De Blasio too many Panhandlers.
8
A lot of commentators seem to be uncomfortable giving to panhandlers--easy solution, give to nonprofits instead. If you do feel ok about giving on the street, great, do it, and do it compassionately. The key here is to give. Find some way you can feel good about, and just do it. Find some way to help--there are a zillion options out there. Give time, give money, give knowledge. Just find some way to help.
26
That's all fine and dandy except that within an hour my pockets would be empty and then I would have to be panhandling myself. My resources aren't endless. The panhandlers are.
33
I started doing this a few years ago, after a lifetime of judgments ( let's call them micro judgments:), as to who needs, what they'll do with it, and a whole bunch of other head noise. Now my criteria boils down to "they need it, and I have it". No one panhandles for fun. It's so freeing to give unconditionally. I look in their eyes, speak, but don't usually touch.
27
Agree. Don't overthink it when coming across someone on the sidewalk while on the way to a warm home. A dollar, a power bar, a smile, not a big deal while very meaningful to the person struggling. We don't know their stories - we know ours. Erring on the side of compassion is a good thing.
42
I am not a Catholic, not a Christian but I am moved by what the Pope has said. I will start paying the panhandlers. I will look at their eyes. (But in all honesty, and not to sound frivolous, I don't think I can touch them.)
18
Pope Francis is asking the world to give up indifference for Lent.
45
Give, but not necessarily money. Sometimes I've carried protein bars or boxes of raisins, and give those. Sometimes I'll invite folks who say they want money for food to share a meal with me in a restaurant, or if they are asking for food money outside a grocery store I'll buy them whatever they say they want. The admonition to touch and look is important not only because it helps the giver to see the human being who is asking, but also it helps the person asking to see the giver as more than just a source of funds.
47
The semantics surrounding the impecunious life has changed during my young life. Where we once had tramps, bums, hobos, rag pickers,etc., we now have "homeless."--social worker lingo, suggesting that action will follow.
"Home," connotes for me a place where the halt, lame and feeble-minded are incarcerated and supervised.
Give me a house, but not a home, thank you. But then, I'd rather be a bum, a tramp, or a hobo, than a homeless (critter), on his way to a home.
A book, "You can't win," by Jack Black illuminates this culture.
"Home," connotes for me a place where the halt, lame and feeble-minded are incarcerated and supervised.
Give me a house, but not a home, thank you. But then, I'd rather be a bum, a tramp, or a hobo, than a homeless (critter), on his way to a home.
A book, "You can't win," by Jack Black illuminates this culture.
5
A lovely message, especially the part about looking the person in the eye and touching their hand.
For those worried about a panhandler spending the money on alcohol or drugs: I often carry snacks with me, and then I can offer a panhandler an orange or a banana.
For those worried about a panhandler spending the money on alcohol or drugs: I often carry snacks with me, and then I can offer a panhandler an orange or a banana.
15
This article really got to me, my policy is I don't give anything, because I think it will go to drugs, which morphs into a kind of writing off of the panhandler as a person in my mind subconsciously, as in they aren't worry of any charity, the popes take is very interesting, elevating compassion for the human regardless of their present circumstances, I think I'm changing my strategy on this.
46
I love this article. No longer will I feel slightly embarrassed when I give money to panhandlers. This does not seem like an easy way to make money and sometimes a smoke or a drink can make a day great!.
This does not mean we can't also give generously to nonprofits!
This does not mean we can't also give generously to nonprofits!
36
This Pope keeps demonstrating that he is a Christian, in words and deeds. It is precisely this quality that has so riled the "Christian Right" conservatives and rabid dogs like Steve Bannon. A majority of "christians" voted for Trump - a guy who simply lies about charity and cheats everyone. They are the same people who hated (not a christian virtue) Jimmy Carter, one of the most compelling living examples of WWJD.
So - what is it with American christians that they love the religion enough to kill Muslims and Jews for it, but find it so difficult to actually practice its core tenets?
So - what is it with American christians that they love the religion enough to kill Muslims and Jews for it, but find it so difficult to actually practice its core tenets?
34
Hi John, good point, but not just Christian; my fellow Catholics went for Trump; after Francis visited a Youth House in Rome on Holy Week Thursday and there performed our ritual of the washing of the feet, Catholics railed, "what is next, dogs!"
This man is defined by his enemies
This man is defined by his enemies
15
Think how hard the digital age has been on the homeless! Thanks to EFT, who has loose change or a dollar in their pocket to give anymore?
9
Agreed. One of the main reasons I still carry cash. But what will become if this act of freedom and compassion when cash is gone?
4
Ahah, now if only American Christians were listening to the Pope instead of Fox News.
50
You recognize the complexity because you are intelligent and thoughtful. You realize there are no easy paths for you. That should help you be prepared for what comes next (unlike our current president) and I wish you well on your difficult journey!! And the leader of your Church is so awesome!!
9
"...elevating compassion over doctrine"? The horror, the horror.
12
Amen.
12
the good sisters always taught us parochial school kids to suspect the beggar may be Jesus in disguise.
29
Pope Francis, more often than not, comes across as rational and pragmatic, something most religious leaders are not known for.
Having said that, giving money to the needy is fine, but you have to be careful who you give money to.
If you've been in NY subways, you come across all sorts of characters asking for money. If you are a New Yorker, you can spot the phonies from the real ones.
Funny story: there's this young lady who asks for money with the story that she is widowed and have children to take care of, etc. Most of the regulars on the subway have seen her often and know better than to hand out money. Once when this young lady was doing her "thing," another subway regular, a lady, interrupted by saying, "Can you knock it off? You're wearing a more expensive coat than I am! Who are you kidding?"
The young lady made a hasty exit at the next station murmuring curses!
Having said that, giving money to the needy is fine, but you have to be careful who you give money to.
If you've been in NY subways, you come across all sorts of characters asking for money. If you are a New Yorker, you can spot the phonies from the real ones.
Funny story: there's this young lady who asks for money with the story that she is widowed and have children to take care of, etc. Most of the regulars on the subway have seen her often and know better than to hand out money. Once when this young lady was doing her "thing," another subway regular, a lady, interrupted by saying, "Can you knock it off? You're wearing a more expensive coat than I am! Who are you kidding?"
The young lady made a hasty exit at the next station murmuring curses!
9
What Jesus would actually do.
17
Not human, clench your grubby little hand tightly around your coin purse while you trample on the feebly extended hands of the supine bodies on the piece of cardboard they call home, shaming each to cast their eyes away from your resolute and righteous path to the liquor store.
9
Imagine, a Christian leader recommending that people act like Christians. Too bad the Evangelical Christians in the US didn't get the memo.
29
Panhandling is no easy job. Someone panhandling has to humiliate himself for doing so. Already for this self-degrading you have to give to him not only out of charity.
8
An excellent opinion that cuts through all the clutter. Thank you!
15
Always give, even a smile or a nod.
Did you eat today, and yesterday, and will you tomorrow? Give.
Are you warm enough, dry enough, clean enough? Give.
I keep rolled up single dollars easy at hand when in NYC. Give.
One might keep someone alive, one may kill someone. Not my call. Give.
Did you eat today, and yesterday, and will you tomorrow? Give.
Are you warm enough, dry enough, clean enough? Give.
I keep rolled up single dollars easy at hand when in NYC. Give.
One might keep someone alive, one may kill someone. Not my call. Give.
26
Thank you to Pope Francis, who once again points us in the right direction.
We so often feel we have to analyze every situation and too often are suspicious...the solution here....don't worry about it. We are all so "judgey" these days (as my teenage friend says).
We so often feel we have to analyze every situation and too often are suspicious...the solution here....don't worry about it. We are all so "judgey" these days (as my teenage friend says).
13
Pope Francis is Christlike. We need people like him more than ever. I am grateful for his leadership.
22
Amen. God bless the Pope.
17
In these times when public rhetoric has taken a turn for the brutal (a bully in the White House) and strongmen are on the rise, this is salve to the soul.
Pope Francis reminds us that bad leaders will have little power if we ignore their calls to hate by stopping, reflecting, and putting ourselves in the shoes of the beggar as a fellow human being, no different than us.
Imagine if there were one day of the year when we all followed his sage advice.
What a world it could be.
Pope Francis reminds us that bad leaders will have little power if we ignore their calls to hate by stopping, reflecting, and putting ourselves in the shoes of the beggar as a fellow human being, no different than us.
Imagine if there were one day of the year when we all followed his sage advice.
What a world it could be.
13
Francis, thank you.
When I was in difficulties, I was shown much mercy by strangers on the street, including the homeless.
Yesterday I was in New York and didn't give anyone anything. Usually I do, but I didn't have any singles.
In future I'll be sure to carry a few. You never know who you'll meet.
Sure, some people are lying, but I'm still better off than they are.
When I was in difficulties, I was shown much mercy by strangers on the street, including the homeless.
Yesterday I was in New York and didn't give anyone anything. Usually I do, but I didn't have any singles.
In future I'll be sure to carry a few. You never know who you'll meet.
Sure, some people are lying, but I'm still better off than they are.
15
Let's contrast the approach of Pope Francis to that well known "centrist progressive" Tony Blair in dealing with a panhandler. The Pope advocates giving without reservation, no strings, but Mr. Blair would however, size up the mendicant & if finding he or she to be within the acceptable age range, would give the coinage as well as directions to the nearest military recruiter.
This can be said to giving a fishhook rather than a fish, but with however, a line attached. He might call it "compassionate centrist progressiveness".
This can be said to giving a fishhook rather than a fish, but with however, a line attached. He might call it "compassionate centrist progressiveness".
6
I already gave in the form of taxation. It is the government duty to take care of people in need. It is certainly less humiliating for all involved
8
Yes--well-- it's not enough. And in this coming cycle it will be less. So if you can spare anything , please take your opportunities, because what's humiliating is standing outside with your ask while people shuffle by with their heads down.
9
The good Pope's heartfelt Catholicism and magnanimous humanity is fundamentally incompatible with conservative American Protestantism, which celebrates the haunting fear that someone, somewhere, may be happy.
61
And what, Socrates, are you qualifications to opine on the thinking of either Catholics or American Protestants?
You seem, once again, to be painting with an overly broad brush with your usual gratuitousness.
You seem, once again, to be painting with an overly broad brush with your usual gratuitousness.
6
I am shocked that Socrates has something nice to say about the Catholic Church. There is still hope for the world.
6
You have plagiarized the late Christopher Hitchens, and badly (who was quoting the later Mencken, by the way). The only original contribution you have made, as usual, is to clutter a predictable sentiment with too many words in an attempt to sound smart--and inserting a political statement, even if you have to assault the topic to force it to fit.
When, Socrates, will you begin to bore yourself, as you have so many of the rest of us?
When, Socrates, will you begin to bore yourself, as you have so many of the rest of us?
4
Giving is always a far more acceptable way of helping the poor and the needy.
It's ironic that the esteemed Editorial Board is now recognizing the validity of giving over the wealth transfer schemes that they have been espousing and supporting now for decades.
Is the Editorial Board changing its tune?
I doubt that seriously. I also doubt that any of Board members give that generously to charities that actually help the disadvantaged, just as I doubt that any of the members voluntarily give more money to their local and state and our national governments when they file their taxes. I am sure that most of them mine the tax laws for every deduction that hey can possibly squeeze past an auditor.
When the Editorial Board steps up and leads by example, then I might be willing to grant their musings a touch of credibility.
It's ironic that the esteemed Editorial Board is now recognizing the validity of giving over the wealth transfer schemes that they have been espousing and supporting now for decades.
Is the Editorial Board changing its tune?
I doubt that seriously. I also doubt that any of Board members give that generously to charities that actually help the disadvantaged, just as I doubt that any of the members voluntarily give more money to their local and state and our national governments when they file their taxes. I am sure that most of them mine the tax laws for every deduction that hey can possibly squeeze past an auditor.
When the Editorial Board steps up and leads by example, then I might be willing to grant their musings a touch of credibility.
3
The Editorial Board is composed of working stiffs. Minus their "musings" they don't get paid.
Dogs and cats will suffer... hookers and bookmakers as well.
Dogs and cats will suffer... hookers and bookmakers as well.
2
What a wonderful article, full of the wisdom of Pope Francis. I am a Catholic and every time I hear or read about his inclusive views, I am thankful we have someone in a very high place looking out for humanity. The world would be a much better place if we practice what he preaches and does.
12
There are two important parts to the Pope's message. The money is secondary to our attitude towards those who are struggling on our streets and in our neighborhoods. When we make eye contact and say hello to someone we see regularly on the street, we recognize someone as a member of our community and a friend, someone we value. Imagine valuing the people who ask you for money, not their troubles or living situation. They are distant cousins to you, but family nonetheless. When we shake hands and look people in the eye, we are equals in that moment, we show respect and valuing. We feel the tenderness that keeps us whole.
16
Another idea is to give out "leftover bags" after a restaurant meal. It's criminal how much food is thrown out and yet how many people are hungry on the streets. And, yes, give alms too, remembering to look the person in the eyes and recognize their humanness.
7
Having lived outside for three years during my deconstruction phase of human development, I completely agree that eye contact and a smile are more valuable than any coin.
30
Your comment would get more recommends if it had started after the comma.
2
Jesus states in Matt 25 that what you do for the poor is how he will recognize you "born again" status. He told his disciples, who obviously accepted Jesus, that if you do not feed, clothe and provide shelter to all of the needy you are ware of then you witheld that aid from Jesus. Pope Francis is scriptually on point. Regardless of all of the other rules and traditions of the different branches of Christianity this appears to be Jesus giving a very clear command. Your afterlife will be determined by how you treat the poor. Jesus never took a stand on birth control or abortion. He observed the Sabbath on Saturday even with his time in the tomb after crucifixition (buried before sunset on Friday then rises on Sunday after Sabbath). He defended a woman that under the old law could be stoned for adultery. Feeding and protecting the poor was his only clear line of behavior that affects salvation. You can't be a follower of Christ without taking care of the poor. That goes for the bishops and Cardinals that live princely lives and skimp on helping the poor.
20
Elevating compassion over doctrine is also never wrong. For my part, it is THE doctrine. What else matters?
17
Long live the Pope. I don't claim to be a theologian but his messages almost always seem what would JESUS really do.
17
Pope Francis has worked to return the Catholic Church to its roots, but it has had almost two millennia in which to entrench its own concepts of entitlement, arrogance, and hypocrisy.
I have not doubt that Francis would desire a more rapid return to the tenets of their religion, but he is facing a bureaucracy that has far more to lose than most would care to imagine.
I have not doubt that Francis would desire a more rapid return to the tenets of their religion, but he is facing a bureaucracy that has far more to lose than most would care to imagine.
6
When asked "Who is my neighbor?" Jesus answered with the story of The Good Samaritan. In that story, there are no qualifications as to who the person in need was. It was just help anyone you see in need. Matthew 25:31-45 tells essentially the same story. Whatever you do for the least of these you do for Me is what Jesus said. Jesus also said "Judge not least you be judged." It is obvious that Pope Francis is very familiar with The Gospel of Jesus and lives it out. He surely will hear "Well done thy good and faithful servant" someday.
18
Rigghhht. Let's give an alcoholic some money to buy alcohol with. Did the pope ever consider the fact that a homeless person might not be in that state if he didn't abuse alcohol or drugs? Yes, yes, I know. Some homeless people are mentally ill. But maybe he isn't. I'd be homeless too if I hadn't stayed in school, learned a profession in the medical field and worked for 40 plus years. Duh !
9
So you get the right to judge this person, on a second or two observation? Christianity can be uncomfortable at times, can't it?
4
I used to think like you do but this article really got me thinking. Where in the gospel are the worthiness or intentions of the recipient considered? Before the miracle of loaves and fishes, Jesus' disciples had more 'practical' solutions. After all, who goes running out to the wilderness somewhere unprepared - perhaps skipping work for days - expecting someone else to feed them? How fair is that? Yet everybody ate, with enough left over.
Perhaps giving isn't about who's lived a better life but instead a salute of gratitude to a God who loves each one of us without limits, no matter what we do with our lives...
Perhaps giving isn't about who's lived a better life but instead a salute of gratitude to a God who loves each one of us without limits, no matter what we do with our lives...
2
Here's a question that, perhaps, goes to the root of the issue:
Without the judgement of those with whom one interacts, is it reasonable to assume, or even presume, that the trajectory of another's live will change?
Intervention is a valid method of drawing the attention of "the one being judged" to the facts surrounding his condition and providing options for the "accused" to change and better his lot.
These interventions can be done through large gatherings of concerned family and friends, or can be done with and indivual going out of his way with a helping hand.
Let me rephrase your implied question, if I may:
Is it "Christian" to allow a person to continue to abuse himself without any interference from others?
I suspect that "judging" would be far less a sin, if a sin at all, than in allowing a person to commit suicide by the fluid ounce or powder dose.
Without the judgement of those with whom one interacts, is it reasonable to assume, or even presume, that the trajectory of another's live will change?
Intervention is a valid method of drawing the attention of "the one being judged" to the facts surrounding his condition and providing options for the "accused" to change and better his lot.
These interventions can be done through large gatherings of concerned family and friends, or can be done with and indivual going out of his way with a helping hand.
Let me rephrase your implied question, if I may:
Is it "Christian" to allow a person to continue to abuse himself without any interference from others?
I suspect that "judging" would be far less a sin, if a sin at all, than in allowing a person to commit suicide by the fluid ounce or powder dose.
3
"{Y]ou have your own on-the-spot, individualized benefits program, with a bit of means-testing, mental health and character assessment, and criminal-background check — to the extent that any of this is possible from a second or two of looking someone up and down."
That's right.
Obviously, Francis doesn't slog back and forth to work on the IND and Lexington Avenue lines.
That's right.
Obviously, Francis doesn't slog back and forth to work on the IND and Lexington Avenue lines.
3
A plea to all our elected officials (including our billionaire President)-- none of you have ever known what financial hardship is and it is hard to imagine fully if you have not had to live it as so many have/are....
Please remember that very few humans CHOOSE poverty/disability/poor living conditions/hunger/unemployment.... as you preach from the WH for your constituents to "learn to live leaner" & "make do with less". Many of your constituents(and many others throughout the world, as the Pope correctly advises) are living so lean they're barely living and there's very little less they can do without.....
Perhaps our elected officials can live on a 'budget' such as someone in poverty or near-poverty does?
Please remember that very few humans CHOOSE poverty/disability/poor living conditions/hunger/unemployment.... as you preach from the WH for your constituents to "learn to live leaner" & "make do with less". Many of your constituents(and many others throughout the world, as the Pope correctly advises) are living so lean they're barely living and there's very little less they can do without.....
Perhaps our elected officials can live on a 'budget' such as someone in poverty or near-poverty does?
12
See Cory Booker's effort to live on food stamps. He may be fortunate, but he's made an attempt to walk a mile in the shoes off the least of us. http://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2012/12/04/166475063/living-on-fo...
5
There's a story about C.S. Lewis that's on point. Walking with a friend, he passed a panhandler; he gave the man a pound. His friend cocked an eyebrow and said, "He'll just buy liquor with it." As they reached their destination and Lewis opened the pub door, he replied, "Well, that's what I was going to do with it."
47
As a person who keeps a stack of one dollar bills in my glove box, to give pan-handlers, I couldn't agree more! Now if only he could relent a bit on that birth control thing ...
24
...and put women in positions of authority in the church. Now you're talking!
6
Editorial Board - please send me $5.00
14
Compassion without strings attached or judgment. I like this message.
10
"His critics have accused him of elevating compassion over doctrine."
Nothing to add.
Nothing to add.
10
"America is in the middle of a raging argument over poor outcasts. The president speaks of building walls and repelling foreigners. "
Baloney. The two have nothing top do with each other.
The first sentence is false, there is no raging argument over poor outcasts. People who want to give money to panhandlers, do so. People who don't, don't. Case closed.
The topic of the second sentence has nothing whatsoever to do with the poor or with outcasts. It has to do with legal, or illegal, presence of foreign nationals within the U.S.
Is giving an alcoholic the means to get drunk again compassionate ? Is giving a crack addict the means to get wasted again compassionate ? It seems that the Pope thinks so.
One has to wonder if he has a vested interest in keeping the poor addicts, poor and addicted.
6
I thought this newspaper was written by educated adults living in New York City, not wide-eyed teenagers on their first visit to the Big City from Podunk. Please stop conflating giving spare change to panhandlers with helping the poor. This is naive, impulsive, shortsighted, and inconsiderate. Most of the poor do not panhandle. Lots of panhandlers are deceptive, are not really poor, harass passers-by, leave garbage or vandalize the local neighborhood. When you give them money, you're rewarding them for this and encouraging them come to back to the same spot and continue the same behavior the next day. There are plenty of much more effective, dignified, and fairer ways to distribute money to the poor than through giving to panhandlers.
12
Jeremy, why deprive people of the pleasure of cheering up a stranger? Your response is strange indeed. Not to mention undignified.
3
I think he is suggesting, Sally, that a fair number of the panhandlers are out-and-out frauds.
And there are any number of articles that have been written that would confirm the assessment.
And there are any number of articles that have been written that would confirm the assessment.
4
Sally Eckhoff: Because it comes at the expense of people's ability to walk down the street and mind their own business in pretty much any commercial area in most major cities without being harassed by panhandlers, and ultimately it doesn't even do the panhandlers any favors. Do you have the same sympathy for cat-callers and telemarketers?
I think most people give to panhandlers out of embarrassment, because they don't want to feel bad about themselves or look bad in front of companions, rather than out of pleasure. If it were such a pleasurable thing to do, it would be far more common for people to look around for and walk up to panhandlers, rather than just giving when confronted by a panhandler blocking their way.
I'm not talking about the case of someone giving a cup of coffee and a sandwich to the friendly homeless guy minding his own business and not blocking anyone's way. I have nothing against that.
I think most people give to panhandlers out of embarrassment, because they don't want to feel bad about themselves or look bad in front of companions, rather than out of pleasure. If it were such a pleasurable thing to do, it would be far more common for people to look around for and walk up to panhandlers, rather than just giving when confronted by a panhandler blocking their way.
I'm not talking about the case of someone giving a cup of coffee and a sandwich to the friendly homeless guy minding his own business and not blocking anyone's way. I have nothing against that.
3
Don't give people a twenty after buying a long story. I tell my kids not to act like they just fell off the turnip truck from Indiana (they did) until they get used to life back east. But I like the advice of a Quaker friend of mine. He carries a roll of quarters and gives them away, and any food leftovers from restaurants go straight to the first beggar encountered. If you have nothing to give, still give a smile and a hello, warm contact is always appreciated.
8
"...they just fell off the turnip truck from Indiana (they did) until they get used to life back east...."
Whether they did or not, that is a decidedly dismissive statement about those who live in Indiana.
My experience with the residents of that state has been that they are far from being unsuspecting bumpkins with no street smarts.
I bet you agreed with Hillary and her "deplorables: comment. You certainly haven't learned very much from her defeat.
Whether they did or not, that is a decidedly dismissive statement about those who live in Indiana.
My experience with the residents of that state has been that they are far from being unsuspecting bumpkins with no street smarts.
I bet you agreed with Hillary and her "deplorables: comment. You certainly haven't learned very much from her defeat.
1
The Pope's advice is more Vatican hypocrisy since panhandlers are not allowed in Vatican City.
7
What about the women who beg outside the walls, prostrating themselves on the sidewalk to passersby? They are the most pitiable people.
Sorry, joe, your story doesn't hold water.
Sorry, joe, your story doesn't hold water.
5
Neither are the alcoholics...except those in cossacks..,the homeless, or the mentally ill, or the refugee from war-torn nations
The Vatican is far from the most welcome nation in the world.
The Vatican is far from the most welcome nation in the world.
1
In one or more of the Scandivnian countries, poverty is viewed as not ones problem in life to deal with but the problem of the state, thus one sees few if any panhandlers on the streets. The state takes cave of those unfortunates.
18
True. When I attended services at the so-called "English church" in Stockholm, a parishioner told me at coffee hour that the Swedish safety net is so strong that no one falls through the cracks except late-stage alcoholics, and the Salvation Army is sufficient to take care of them. For that reason, Swedish churches do their charitable work in the former Soviet Union, which is just an overnight ferry ride away, where the collapse of the Communist-era safety net has left a great deal of destitution in its wake.
11
This is so affirming. I have a friend who criticizes me every time I give. I get a lecture on enabling and his vision of social reform. It's exhausting. I appreciate the affirmation.
ps. Need better friends!
ps. Need better friends!
21
I question your sense of "needing" to be affirmed.
If the giving were done in the spirit that Pope Francis has outlined, no affirmation would be needed.
I suggest that you re-investigate your reasoning.
If the giving were done in the spirit that Pope Francis has outlined, no affirmation would be needed.
I suggest that you re-investigate your reasoning.
2
Thank you so much for this editorial.
A few months ago, I gave a homeless Veteran who had no legs, some cash while looking into his eyes. He then said "God bless you" with all his soul and it made me cry because I have never had someone bless me with such conviction and soulfulness.
Yes, some homeless people may be addicts but so are some lawyers, bankers, teachers and so on. I have met many a con man wearing a fancy suit. We call such people "professionals" and praise them for their credentials and so on.
Bottom line is that we are a nation that values people who have lots of money, we do not value soul. Many people view homeless people as being failures because they are poor. We take poverty as some sign of moral failure. I rather be cheated by a homeless person on a corner in NYC who is looking to score some booze than some hedge fund manager down on Wall Street who is looking to line his pockets out of pure greed.
A few months ago, I gave a homeless Veteran who had no legs, some cash while looking into his eyes. He then said "God bless you" with all his soul and it made me cry because I have never had someone bless me with such conviction and soulfulness.
Yes, some homeless people may be addicts but so are some lawyers, bankers, teachers and so on. I have met many a con man wearing a fancy suit. We call such people "professionals" and praise them for their credentials and so on.
Bottom line is that we are a nation that values people who have lots of money, we do not value soul. Many people view homeless people as being failures because they are poor. We take poverty as some sign of moral failure. I rather be cheated by a homeless person on a corner in NYC who is looking to score some booze than some hedge fund manager down on Wall Street who is looking to line his pockets out of pure greed.
49
This article has helped me make that decision! I am one of those "instant analyzers" who always tried to decide on the moment. Then I feel guilty about the ones I don't "choose" to give to. Now I will just give and not worry about it.
There are good questions here, too - "What if they buy drugs?" "What if they are alcoholics?" "Am I enabling a criminal?"
My sainted mother has answered that and here is her response, which I think Pope Francis would heartily sanction. "Did Jesus ask the crowds he fed with the loaves and fishes if they were gainfully employed? Did He ask to see their immigration documents? Did He give only to the blameless?"
Giving to those who appear to be in need and who ask us for help is the only choice we really have as followers of Jesus, or Mohammed, or the Buddha, or simply of the Golden Rule!
What is done with our donation is on the conscience of the receiver, not on ours. It is the receiver who must answer for the choices he or she makes; we only need to answer for the choices WE make!
There are good questions here, too - "What if they buy drugs?" "What if they are alcoholics?" "Am I enabling a criminal?"
My sainted mother has answered that and here is her response, which I think Pope Francis would heartily sanction. "Did Jesus ask the crowds he fed with the loaves and fishes if they were gainfully employed? Did He ask to see their immigration documents? Did He give only to the blameless?"
Giving to those who appear to be in need and who ask us for help is the only choice we really have as followers of Jesus, or Mohammed, or the Buddha, or simply of the Golden Rule!
What is done with our donation is on the conscience of the receiver, not on ours. It is the receiver who must answer for the choices he or she makes; we only need to answer for the choices WE make!
24
God Bless You Pope Francis I. In these horrific days of rule by a demagogue we Catholics and all good people of all faiths and no faith in any organized religion should reach out to the person on the street, not looking for a reason why or make any attempt to rehabilitate but to just reach out to them gives them a few pittance of ours and a blessing remembering that whatever their circumstances which led them to this point in time but for the Grace of God go We.
I would much rather give the Pauper who sits on the sidewalk outside of Trump Tower my money than the ogre who resides at the top of his Tower of Babel, thumbs a-twittering away some vile bile of hate. Someday the winner will be last and the loser now will be past.
God Bless You, Pope Francis. You are the antithesis of our current commander in chief. His earthly possession are all for naught. He will not be able to bring them to the gates of Heaven for forgiveness. They will do him no good. Besides, he's never going to be within light years of those Gates anyway.
DD
Manhattan
I would much rather give the Pauper who sits on the sidewalk outside of Trump Tower my money than the ogre who resides at the top of his Tower of Babel, thumbs a-twittering away some vile bile of hate. Someday the winner will be last and the loser now will be past.
God Bless You, Pope Francis. You are the antithesis of our current commander in chief. His earthly possession are all for naught. He will not be able to bring them to the gates of Heaven for forgiveness. They will do him no good. Besides, he's never going to be within light years of those Gates anyway.
DD
Manhattan
13
The hands that help are holier than the lips that pray.
17
This pope is a saint. And I don't really have a clue what that means, but this guy is one, I'm sure of that.
27
Such a difficult decision, and I applaud the Pope trying to address it, although I am still not sure his answer is correct. After working with homeless people for many years, I became so disillusioned because so often they took charity, be it food, money, or clothing - even job opportunities - and then cashed in to feed their addictions, be it meth or booze or cigarettes - in other words, their own self destruction. He is right about one thing - you need to look them in the eye and speak with compassion. I learned that they are often intelligent and interesting people but suffering in the grip of addiction, limited because of prison records or neglected mental health issues. They can usually get food and clothing, but addiction treatment and mental health services seem out of reach for many reasons, some their own inability to show up anywhere at a given time.
80
No real need to be conflicted if you hand out small giftcards (Dd, panera, etc). Yes, they cld presumably sell them for alcohol/drugs, but *someone* less fortunate will eventually use them to eat/have a cup of coffee. If you can afford it, of course
4
We don't give to the needy because they are without sin. As Pope Francis says, we'd find plenty in our own lives that is less than honest or responsible. We give because we have and they have not. The universe is not a fair place, and those who have must share the bounty.
7
A better solution would be birth control.
15
Birth control is good, excellent, but not necessarily better than compassion, and one on one encounters.
9
Better your mother had used it than produced someone who would make such an unfeeling remark.
I'm a secular humanist, but do believe in principles like The Golden Rule and the statement that "There but for the grace of God go I."
I'm a secular humanist, but do believe in principles like The Golden Rule and the statement that "There but for the grace of God go I."
10
A very insensitive response. I would prefer associating with a homeless person than someone who is as uncompassionate as you. Remember there but for the Grace of God go I. I could go on but must remain Christian during this Lenten season.
6
Charity is logically unsound and immoral. Giving to an individual makes the GIVER feel good. This is not a moral reason to give. Take that money and use it to help elect people that will create a society where people are not homeless and starving.
8
Completely disagree. No need to broadcast your gift. I don't give to feel good about myself; I give because I may someday need to receive. It's humility, not hubris.
6
Compassion is neither logically unsound nor immoral.
Giving is about helping people survive until such time as we elect people who will create the society without starvation and homelessness. Electing those people takes no money at all, only imagination and the will to do so.
The fact that the giver feels good about giving is only an added bonus.
Giving is about helping people survive until such time as we elect people who will create the society without starvation and homelessness. Electing those people takes no money at all, only imagination and the will to do so.
The fact that the giver feels good about giving is only an added bonus.
5
You are arguing against a half-century policy that says that the only important thing is to take from those that earn and give it to those that don't.
The liberal...er...progressive...er...whatever it is that they are calling themselves these days to evade having to accept responsibility for the mess that adherence to their ideology has created for our nation...will never accept that as a realistic policy since it would involve the excision of the concept of "entitlement" from their thinking.
The liberal...er...progressive...er...whatever it is that they are calling themselves these days to evade having to accept responsibility for the mess that adherence to their ideology has created for our nation...will never accept that as a realistic policy since it would involve the excision of the concept of "entitlement" from their thinking.
2
I offer PowerBars and similar snacks to the homeless. Can't be spent on alcohol or drugs and if they're hungry, it nourishes. Those who reject them don't really need my help.
10
Right on, Francis! Many of The Times' commentators are busy justifying their own lack of compassion. I say to them: Then don't give to the homeless for their sake, give for your own sake; you'll feel better about it.
The pope is so right about looking people in the eye. It's much harder to do than one might think. But having exchanged a glance with another person, you have made a human connection. You are less isolated and the better for it.
The pope is so right about looking people in the eye. It's much harder to do than one might think. But having exchanged a glance with another person, you have made a human connection. You are less isolated and the better for it.
17
I'm not Catholic, but he's my Pope.
28
Mine too! I like to get Poped up...makes me feel more human, and a little braver as well.
3
Thank you, Pope Francis. I came to this conclusion some time ago. I especially like to give bottles of water during the brutal summer heat in Texas.
13
Thanks for this lovely piece.
3
It has worked for me.
3
I think the Pope is a good person. That said, I find it rich that a man who lives in a palace, wears robes (and shoes) that cost thousands, has a staff of servants, cooks, chauffers, etc., is telling the general public - us chumps that actually WORK for a living to give to the poor. I think the majority of working people do, I do and I know others do as well. It's been my experience that the people who are the most generous with those less well off or homeless, are those who are working class or poor themselves, religion has nothing to do with it. You don't have to be religious to be a decent person and help a fellow human being that's down on their luck.
Just think of all the people that could be helped if the Vatican sold off all that gold and artwork and gave the money to the poor. And didn't Jesus have something to say about that too?
Just think of all the people that could be helped if the Vatican sold off all that gold and artwork and gave the money to the poor. And didn't Jesus have something to say about that too?
8
This pope is not the shoe and chauffeur guy the last one was.
7
I actually donate to pan-handlers without worry. The reasoning is simple: you never know.
The hard-core Calvinist believes they are the 'inherently depraved.' There is a difference between denominations. Catholicism is not the conservative religion many right-wingers in this country imagine it to be. Ross Douthat take notice.
The hard-core Calvinist believes they are the 'inherently depraved.' There is a difference between denominations. Catholicism is not the conservative religion many right-wingers in this country imagine it to be. Ross Douthat take notice.
8
I like the idea of just giving. I think if others are uncomfortable with supporting a substance abuse problem, that's ok too. I think the important message is to be generous and generous of spirit. Also, I like the ideas readers had about gift cards, Cliff bars, etc. -- ways to make someone's day a little easier. There are certainly people that may not appeal to your sense of empathy out on the streets, but surely there are a few that do, if you look.
5
How about opening the bottomless Vatican bank coffers ? Never any mention of this by the pope. Trillions are squirreled away in vatican vaults. Think of how the pope could virtually eradicate poverty.
7
The only obstacle between universal well-being and our world of misery is the Church hanging on to all that money--trillions in the vaults.
4
The Pope is a truly good man. He is also being rather foolish in a good-hearted way. The other side of the argument-- alluded to in the article-- is the issue of enabling.
This puts me in mind of a particular alcoholic well known in a nameless small town. We liked him, and felt badly for him, and did not wish him to go hungry. But if you gave him money, he drank it. So folks would tell him they had given $10 to the local diner and food awaited him.
Charities operate in such fashions- which is why direct giving is hardly ever a good idea. We are not talking about simple indulgences, like who doesn't like a glass of wine... We are talking about skulking away into the bushes to guzzle a pint of rotgut or shoot up some heroin.
Give your money to the Salvation Army. They do an incredible and largely thankless job. Or, if you are so inclined, to the Church. The Pope's minions are unlikely to dispense the money directly-- they will do so through their excellent charity system.
This puts me in mind of a particular alcoholic well known in a nameless small town. We liked him, and felt badly for him, and did not wish him to go hungry. But if you gave him money, he drank it. So folks would tell him they had given $10 to the local diner and food awaited him.
Charities operate in such fashions- which is why direct giving is hardly ever a good idea. We are not talking about simple indulgences, like who doesn't like a glass of wine... We are talking about skulking away into the bushes to guzzle a pint of rotgut or shoot up some heroin.
Give your money to the Salvation Army. They do an incredible and largely thankless job. Or, if you are so inclined, to the Church. The Pope's minions are unlikely to dispense the money directly-- they will do so through their excellent charity system.
6
For years now, every Thursday on the way to work, I've been giving $20 and a pack of cigarettes to a guy named Mike. I know what he does with the cigarettes but I don't ask what he does with the cash. All I ask is that he pray for me. I suppose that makes me an enabler. But old Mike is still with us today, and I'll miss him when he's gone.
12
Compassionate people who concentrate on the good in humanity are always considered to be foolish by some. But I say that we live up to expectations, good or bad. Concentrating on the good is the least foolish path.
People are so afraid of being wrong that they don't take the chance to do right.
Sure, your act of compassion might turn out badly- we live in an imperfect world. But give anyway, in the most effective way you can, because most of the time, we are all better for it.
People are so afraid of being wrong that they don't take the chance to do right.
Sure, your act of compassion might turn out badly- we live in an imperfect world. But give anyway, in the most effective way you can, because most of the time, we are all better for it.
7
I have direct experience with this. I spent 9 months living on the streets of Santa Monica and West Los Angeles a few years ago. Let me tell you, you would be amazed at what you will do when you are hungry and have no money and no place to go. I panhandled, and it was the most humiliating thing I have ever had to do. It was an eye-opening experience for me, to see humanity at its worst--and its best. Some advice, if you are inclined to give: give paper money because it's easier for the person receiving to deal with that, rather than heavy coins that many merchants do not like to accept in large amounts. And may this h*ll never happen to you.
40
I buy scratch-off lottery tickets. When I get one that's a winner ($5, $10, for example), I keep them When I see someone who's homeless or asking for money, I give them one of those. They need to take some action by turning in the ticket to get the money. It's amazing to me how many small winnings I get. I have seven such tickets in my center console right now, after having bought ten tickets. A small thing, but I feel as if it's the response to "whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers, that you do unto me."
9
But half the money invested goes to lottery predators.
As someone who lived with an alcoholic until he died, if you think giving money to street people helps them, you are sadly mistaken. That money goes into to hole their suffering has dug and only makes it deeper.
There is a better way to help:give it to the groups that are working to help the homeless and the mentally ill. You can give a designated amount for every panhandler you see and donate that amount weekly or so. Those groups will work with the whole person and can actually do some good.
Handing someone on the street $5 feels pretty good-See how generous I am-but does nothing to end the situation and problems that got this person on the street in the first place. I do agree when you give (or do anything for someone else) you should ideally do it with a willing and glad heart, but handing out $ on the street is not really helping; that "glass of wine" isn't a pleasure, it's a bomb.
There is a better way to help:give it to the groups that are working to help the homeless and the mentally ill. You can give a designated amount for every panhandler you see and donate that amount weekly or so. Those groups will work with the whole person and can actually do some good.
Handing someone on the street $5 feels pretty good-See how generous I am-but does nothing to end the situation and problems that got this person on the street in the first place. I do agree when you give (or do anything for someone else) you should ideally do it with a willing and glad heart, but handing out $ on the street is not really helping; that "glass of wine" isn't a pleasure, it's a bomb.
13
I did the same thing, carr,and I disagree with you totally.
Tough. Love. Does. Not. Work.
If you can put honeyed words in someone's ear when they're bent on self-destruction, you've lightened their hearts maybe an ounce or two. It won't save them, but it won't torture them either.
Tough. Love. Does. Not. Work.
If you can put honeyed words in someone's ear when they're bent on self-destruction, you've lightened their hearts maybe an ounce or two. It won't save them, but it won't torture them either.
2
I always give to panhandlers. I keep an extra amoung of dollars in my wallet just for them. It is a job and they jockey for key spots. It is a small business in my mind. Moreover I don't care how they spend their money. I'd rather give to panhandlers than the multitude of people demanding 20% tips for handing me a pastry.
14
What an unfortunate comparison! The person "demanding" a 20% tip for "handling" you a pastry is working for a living. He or she is often working for minimum-wage or sometimes less, and it is the tips that make the work a reasonable endeavor for them. If you don't want to tip, you are under no obligation to ask for a pastry.
6
If I purchase a pastry or a cup of coffee or an ice cream cone, doesn't that purchase include the handing over? Those tips jars have exploded. It's like being in Egypt when the ten persons you encountered in a restaurant (the one who opened the door, the one who showed you to the hostess, the hostess who took you to a seat, the one who brought the menu, the one who took your order, the one who brought your meal, the one who cleared your meal away, the one who brought you your check, the one who took away your payment and the one who showed you out the door) all were meant to get a teeny teeny tip. I thought it was a great form of wealth redistribution because everyone had a task to perform, everyone earned something. But in the US I don't expect to tip someone whose only 'service' was to pour and delivery the coffee I've paid for.
4
When I lived in a third-world country where children were often sent out to beg by 'pimps' who would then collect their money, I carried little bags of food, e.g. just-add-water cup-a-soup that could be consumed by the child, fruit, etc. Lots of options available.
15
what if they use the money for a fix that leads to an overdose?
7
Then God will judge them. I think the idea that Francis is making is that the gift or lack of gift relects on your warmth and compassion. Jesus said that when you see hunger and you so not feed them then you did not feed me. He did not say unless they might go get a fix. You are looking for ways to salve your guilt of not giving to the poor. Even giving to the charities connected with churches does not fufill the command that Jesus made when he said if you do not care for the poor then you will not make heaven.
3
In this world of petty and peevish world leaders, Pope Francis is perhaps the only one with a moral compass. Unfortunately, often his own flock does not recognize this.
14
I do notice that the Catholic Churh, of which Pope Francis is the head, has yet to volunteer to dispose of some of the more valuable, non-religious assets all over the world to fund some of the programs that he espouses.
The Vatican Art Museum serves no useful purpose other than to extol the grandeur of The Church during its centuries of existence.
The Vatican Art Museum serves no useful purpose other than to extol the grandeur of The Church during its centuries of existence.
4
Love thy neighbor whether or not you or your neighbor insufficiently love your selves.
I agree with the pope.
I agree with what Mother Theresa taught us by example.
Those with unnecessary and obscene amounts of money and wealth should call for the redistribution of their income and wealth as they make it clear that they, the wealthy and their extended family members, will still will have enough money and wealth to live very very very good lives as their reasonable and realistic act of income distribution will end poverty and will also stimulate effective national and international economic development and spawn democratic humanistic social ethics.
I agree with the pope.
I agree with what Mother Theresa taught us by example.
Those with unnecessary and obscene amounts of money and wealth should call for the redistribution of their income and wealth as they make it clear that they, the wealthy and their extended family members, will still will have enough money and wealth to live very very very good lives as their reasonable and realistic act of income distribution will end poverty and will also stimulate effective national and international economic development and spawn democratic humanistic social ethics.
6
"I agree with what Mother Theresa taught us by example."
From what I've read, Mother Theresa made a virtue of living in poverty, not helping people to get out of it, and her facilities were more primitive than they needed to be. She added suffering to suffering that was already unspeakable.
From what I've read, Mother Theresa made a virtue of living in poverty, not helping people to get out of it, and her facilities were more primitive than they needed to be. She added suffering to suffering that was already unspeakable.
5
It's not the money given, it's the real time connection with another person and commitment to something more than ourselves. This is a daily challenge for us all and Francis has given us good guidance here.
12
One of the things I have felt compelled to do since the election is keep a few dollars in my pocket for the panhandlers. When I give, I do look them in the eye and wish them luck. It's a small thing, but I think we all need to experience more kindness these days.
5
Recently I began to spend a lot of time in Center City Philadelphia, where there is a lot of panhandling. Where before, I had a strict policy of not giving to people asking on the streets, I find that my position has changed. I share the same "home" with these people and on occasion I've started giving them something. On a certain level, they are my neighbors. I have no illusions that this will make a difference in anyone's life, but it may get them the coffee, sandwich or whatever they think they need at that particular moment. Trying to move away from being in judgement about what that something might be. That's theirs to deal with.
7
Years ago, when I was living in NYC and troubled by the number of people asking for money, I asked myself which was worse: to give a dollar to someone who was a scammer or to walk past a person who was truly hungry when I could easily have afforded to give the dollar?
It was no contest. Out of every five dollars I give, I'd rather have four go to scammers than walk right past a truly hungry, homeless person. The latter is simply too barbaric for me.
It was no contest. Out of every five dollars I give, I'd rather have four go to scammers than walk right past a truly hungry, homeless person. The latter is simply too barbaric for me.
12
This resonated with me. Although I'm not a Catholic (in fact, I'm an atheist), when I interact with panhandlers, I have a strong sense of there-but-for-the-grace-of-god. In fact, I'm actually homeless right now, albeit temporarily, and am so grateful that I have the means to get through this difficult time.
Respect and dignity cost nothing and they matter so much. I rarely have money to give, but I often have the extra ten seconds to stop, smile, and say, "I'm sorry, sir/ma'am, I don't have any change. Take care and good luck."
Respect and dignity cost nothing and they matter so much. I rarely have money to give, but I often have the extra ten seconds to stop, smile, and say, "I'm sorry, sir/ma'am, I don't have any change. Take care and good luck."
7
How rich (pun intended) advice on helping the homeless from a man who lives in a palace paid for mostly by poor people. Advice of connecting with the pan handler by touch from a man who is surrounded with an armed sercuriy detail. Advice from a man who leads an organization with a policy on birth control that contributes to the existence of so many poor. No thanks. When will the church sell some of its vast real estate holdings and art and do charity work with the proceeds?
3
The Pope is advocating acts of good will, when the impulse arises. To note that moment is to connect with ones humanity. To act on that impulse is ultimately wholesome, barring placing oneself in danger or some other common sense concern. We can never know definitively how gifts will be used, or how they will be received; thanklessness might even bring up disgruntlement. But deal with it. This what it means to be humbled.
6
Giving to panhandlers is not a direct fix for poverty. Admitting the similarities between “us and them” is the mental adjustment that matters. The dollar is just a token of hope between us.
Pope Francis is not afraid of the occasional imperfect consequences as long as evil is not intended. Society, religion and even the news media can be currupted by casuistic logic and misguided control.
Pope Francis is not afraid of the occasional imperfect consequences as long as evil is not intended. Society, religion and even the news media can be currupted by casuistic logic and misguided control.
7
Pope Francis is wonderfully compassionate. Dropping some change into a poor man’s hand should seem easy to do, if compared to times the pope has kissed and washed the feet of Catholic, Muslim and Hindu refugees. All the same, I admit to having a hard time being generous (especially compared to my wife, who’s as soft as they come). When I do give, the lyrics of Phil Ochs’ folk song often come to mind: “…there but for fortune, may go you or I.” I guess that makes me a guilty giver, but at least I’ve forked over.
4
A Church who presides over an order of nuns in the USA headed by a woman we refer to colloquially as Sister Cosa Nostra. Because her father, a capo in the Colombo family, missed being gunned down by the Bonannos late in the 1950s. She vowed to become a nun out of gratitude for her father's life being spared. He is currently serving consecutive life sentences in North Carolina;'s Butner federal penitentiary and has become very close to Michael Milken, also doing time there...most likely Sister Cosa Nostra doesn't even believe in God but loves the power of running an order of nuns. Does she dip into the family trust fund and help people with the proceeds of prostitution, homicide and drug dealing? I doubt it.
2
Excellent. Please ask the Pope to send about $75k in one dollar bills.
Here in Miami that should cover me on my walk from the Government Center Metro-Rail station to Jackson Memorial Hospital. In the morning.
I'll need another $75k to get home.
Here in Miami that should cover me on my walk from the Government Center Metro-Rail station to Jackson Memorial Hospital. In the morning.
I'll need another $75k to get home.
4
I give whenever I'm able and I agree with looking the person in the eyes, although touching their hands would raise a safety concern for me. As far as whether they're legit or what they do with the money, those are their choices, not mine. But I am not going to walk by another human being who may be hungry and destitute and do nothing when I am fortunate enough that loose change or even a couple of dollars is not a blip for me. And I am not going to stand in my position of comfort and judge them to be drug addicts or bad people just because they are homeless. They may well be victims of their own bad choices but many of us have made bad choices and only because of the support of family and friends have not ended up in the same condition.
10
Ok, I'll try to be more considerate of beggars. Fair enough. Why not?
The Pope is just repeating advice the Church has given on this subject over centuries. Jesus said they would always be with us, which is not very progressive but so far he's certainly been right. A lot of what Jesus said makes a lot of people angry, especially when its repeated by others I think, but perhaps understandably so in either case.
As for those saying that the Church needs to give more if it wants to give this advice, where are you getting your figures? I am sure that the Sistine Chapel would draw a good price, but as a Catholic I'd like it to stay a chapel. The Church has always provided charity for the poor, so the argument must be that it takes more than it gives. They would be something that could be proven or not, I would think, but I've never seen any reliable accounting in that regard, just people who say it is so. C'est la vie.
The Pope is just repeating advice the Church has given on this subject over centuries. Jesus said they would always be with us, which is not very progressive but so far he's certainly been right. A lot of what Jesus said makes a lot of people angry, especially when its repeated by others I think, but perhaps understandably so in either case.
As for those saying that the Church needs to give more if it wants to give this advice, where are you getting your figures? I am sure that the Sistine Chapel would draw a good price, but as a Catholic I'd like it to stay a chapel. The Church has always provided charity for the poor, so the argument must be that it takes more than it gives. They would be something that could be proven or not, I would think, but I've never seen any reliable accounting in that regard, just people who say it is so. C'est la vie.
2
So the editorial board has made the Pope's advice on panhandlers into a commentary on America's immigration policy. What's the immigration policy of the Vatican? It's a rich country (city state with diplomatic relations with every other country in the world.)
What if you give a person $20 and he uses it to buy some heroin spiked with fentanyl from Mexico and dies from an overdose?
What if you give a person $20 and he uses it to buy some heroin spiked with fentanyl from Mexico and dies from an overdose?
2
I gave a man $5 and later saw him go into the liquor store and it was not a matter of enjoying a glass of Pinot Noir.
Or it is just easier than working for a living. I saw a man carrying a crutch on the subway until he walked up the stairs and started pan-handling.
When possible, I offer to buy them a meal.
Some accept, some get angry because they need the money for their drug addiction.
In the bigger picture, we should also follow Pope Francis' advice to worry less about cutting taxes for the rich and more about reducing poverty, improving healthcare and education.
We are the richest industrial country on the planet GDP / capita. It is truly shameful. It is truly the greed of men.
Or it is just easier than working for a living. I saw a man carrying a crutch on the subway until he walked up the stairs and started pan-handling.
When possible, I offer to buy them a meal.
Some accept, some get angry because they need the money for their drug addiction.
In the bigger picture, we should also follow Pope Francis' advice to worry less about cutting taxes for the rich and more about reducing poverty, improving healthcare and education.
We are the richest industrial country on the planet GDP / capita. It is truly shameful. It is truly the greed of men.
5
Jesus and his band of bedraggled scruffy disciples were a bunch of left wing socialist agitators focused on giving the kingdom to the outcasts- Matthew 25:31-46- including the poor, the sick, the imprisoned and the despairing. They would be out of place in the costumed ritual splendor of the Vatican. When the faithful leaders of the Church first gathered to come up with their Christian faith canon they decided the people needed a full time clergy and church and the people should give the first tenth of their gross earnings to their church. Pope Francis is like Don Vito Corleone in "The Godfather".
3
"Pray, ask for forgiveness, and give generously to the poor" says the Pope as he sits in his palace within his open City-State, wears golden vestments and holds a gigantic crucifix staff made of solid gold.
3
Wow, Francis! I do volunteer work with women in recovery from addiction. One of the women died recently from an accidental overdose. The cops would often stop her and question her, but she was never jailed or put in prison. She once told me how she would pass the recovery house on her way to purchase heroin. She tried, sincerely, to do the 12 Steps and change, but in the summer the streets would simply call out to her and off she'd go till the weather got cold, and she would return to try recovery yet again. Don't judge. She was a great human being, and I miss her.
12
I love this pope. He is such an inspiration. But having spent years in cities such as San Francisco, you need to be careful and discerning about your interactions with panhandlers, especially if you are a woman. Many of the homeless are mentally ill and drug addicted men who may possibly pose a threat. I can't even count the number of times, I heard or witnessed men screaming and muttering in anguish at some unknown voice or demon. I've even been screamed at and spat upon. Sometimes the only way to serve them is to call an ambulance or emergency services. Unless you are someone who is trained as a psychiatrist or in self-defense, it is a little naive to think that we are all capable of reaching out, touching and able to give every homeless person a sense of dignity. And yes, I have been selective about whom to give and it has tended to be those whom I realized posed little threat to my own personal safety.
12
I am inspired by the message, but to infer "how you give makes no difference" seems quite shortsighted and minimizes the moral dilemma. I want to help every homeless person I meet. And I do that by directly supporting a food bank and social services with records of doing good works. And I support local legislators who recognize and work to deal with the issues of poverty and the mental health crises faced by so many of our citizens. This is a complex problem needing society's concerted attention. I feel no solace simply handing someone a dollar.
7
Isn't it interesting that when we read of the Pope advising us to touch another human being, or give something of ourselves to the needy, the comments here are a singular one. Oddly enough even THAT one circles around to President Trump again. Why is it we can keep our fists clenched and not give away a dollar or two to the homeless without judgement, but we line up by the hundreds for comment, with rocks in our hand to stone Trump, and say every vile hateful thing we can against him? I think he just wrote a $10,000 check to a young man in need. Comment critically on that also?
2
Comment critically? Sure, that's easy. It's for show, an easy emotional manipulation, just like the prolonged "ovation" he gave to the widow of the soldier killed in his botched and idiotic raid.
3
He also ran a fake charity that took other people's donations and then he had paintings made of himself and he paid his legal bills. Bankrupted a lot of the hard working tradesmen who worked on his casinos in Atlantic City with his bankruptcies.
A person's past deeds are a good indication of future behavior.
A person's past deeds are a good indication of future behavior.
4
It's not his charity with his own money that's the issue.
2
Wow! Wonderful editorial. If God's hand has been open to is, why should ours be closed?
16
I love the simple message of this Pope. We do not have to live in a world of good and evil, we can choose to live in a world of love and compassion.
Are people good? Yes, is the Pope's answer.
https://focusnfinish.wordpress.com/2016/05/28/are-people-good/
Are people good? Yes, is the Pope's answer.
https://focusnfinish.wordpress.com/2016/05/28/are-people-good/
13
This almost makes me want to be religious. Pope Francis keeping it positive. A nice breath of news and opinion.
27
I should start carrying cash again.
14
Va bene! Grazie Papa!
If we need an argument from authority to do what we long to do naturally -- help one another -- this pope gives us a Lenten hand.
If we need an argument from authority to do what we long to do naturally -- help one another -- this pope gives us a Lenten hand.
15
What a good and wise man.
14
And the larger message seems to be "we all are Blessed", and to live and acknowledge that Truth.
12
How many operating panhandlers does Mr. Pope tolerate inside the walled precincts of his soverign polity?
13
There are more than 3000 homeless people in Vatican City. The Pope has provided them all with a sleeping bag, showers, laundry, food. (Source:
http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2015/03/04/pope-francis-s-homeless...
And are you one of the people who thought that Trump said something intelligent when he said, "Vatican City has a wall, too!"? Because that's just a standard medieval city wall, it's not to keep people out. Everyone is welcome at the wall's door.
http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2015/03/04/pope-francis-s-homeless...
And are you one of the people who thought that Trump said something intelligent when he said, "Vatican City has a wall, too!"? Because that's just a standard medieval city wall, it's not to keep people out. Everyone is welcome at the wall's door.
12
Giving is Receiving. It is when one turns the 'I' into 'We', and one should never expect to be thanked. Perhaps you have seen persons on the streets of big cities handing out discount coupons? Take one in passing, and nod in understanding. A friend I loved died of 'poverty', but he always carried spare change in his pockets.
'Get a job!' and it might be you one day sitting against a wall. It does not matter, it is none of your business how the homeless person is planning to use your pennies. 'He is just looking for a drink!'. Give him a moment of comfort unless you are planning to take him to a rehabilitation clinic. Show respect to those in need, and if you see a man on an isolated avenue in a wheel-chair with an empty cup, trying to keep warm, tell him you are getting something at the coffee-shop and ask if you can include him.
This is called the Art of Giving and Receiving. Some of us are generous to a fault, but refuse to receive. Never take an act of kindness for granted. George Orwell, a British reporter, of Down and Out in Paris and London gives some tips on giving and how gratitude can be mean.
Two photos in my wallet - a French African, a devout Muslim, one of the greatest Christians I have met. The other of Papa Francesco - Pray for Us. A country far away is dying. Genocide in the South Sudan. Millions of children are lost wandering this planet, give what you can. The reward is in itself.
'Get a job!' and it might be you one day sitting against a wall. It does not matter, it is none of your business how the homeless person is planning to use your pennies. 'He is just looking for a drink!'. Give him a moment of comfort unless you are planning to take him to a rehabilitation clinic. Show respect to those in need, and if you see a man on an isolated avenue in a wheel-chair with an empty cup, trying to keep warm, tell him you are getting something at the coffee-shop and ask if you can include him.
This is called the Art of Giving and Receiving. Some of us are generous to a fault, but refuse to receive. Never take an act of kindness for granted. George Orwell, a British reporter, of Down and Out in Paris and London gives some tips on giving and how gratitude can be mean.
Two photos in my wallet - a French African, a devout Muslim, one of the greatest Christians I have met. The other of Papa Francesco - Pray for Us. A country far away is dying. Genocide in the South Sudan. Millions of children are lost wandering this planet, give what you can. The reward is in itself.
20
Elevate Compassion over Doctrine? What an Idea. Not just for The Vatican, but for all of Humanity.
54
"Maybe" has nothing to do with it. Just do it! Reach in your wallet or purse, grab what you can spare, and give it to whoever asks. It's that simple.
The bible and Jesus even ask for more. Tithe your 10 percent. Give half! If you're a rich young man or woman, give it all, and go work in a soup-kitchen.
Here's the hardest part: don't leave alms-giving to your government to distribute. Your government does not feel compassion. It cannot litterally lend a hand, a smile, a prayer.
Don't be smug and finger-point at others who ignore those in need. Your tax-paid alms don't count. Your own. person "hand-out" is what's asked of you. If panhandlers aren't there for you, volunteer at Dorothy Day, Salvation Army, Memory Units, Meals on Wheels, foodshelves. Lend both hands.
Make the right call and extend your right hand to those in need. Yes, I'm working on it, too. Francis is right.
The bible and Jesus even ask for more. Tithe your 10 percent. Give half! If you're a rich young man or woman, give it all, and go work in a soup-kitchen.
Here's the hardest part: don't leave alms-giving to your government to distribute. Your government does not feel compassion. It cannot litterally lend a hand, a smile, a prayer.
Don't be smug and finger-point at others who ignore those in need. Your tax-paid alms don't count. Your own. person "hand-out" is what's asked of you. If panhandlers aren't there for you, volunteer at Dorothy Day, Salvation Army, Memory Units, Meals on Wheels, foodshelves. Lend both hands.
Make the right call and extend your right hand to those in need. Yes, I'm working on it, too. Francis is right.
25
Pay your taxes so when the next disaster strikes FEMA will have money to pay for the billions of dollars in aide it dispenses to people who have lost their homes.
2
"It is in Giving that you Receive". it is that simple.
None of the world religions say "Judge, give and then you will receive"
None of the world religions say "Judge, give and then you will receive"
27
One "little" thing we can do:
Whenever you're in line for something, and another customer is short of money, just give that person the money he/she needs. Did this in McDonald's when a guy was short on money for coffee yesterday - he was so appreciative, and it gave him a smile for the day.
Gave me a smile, too.
Whenever you're in line for something, and another customer is short of money, just give that person the money he/she needs. Did this in McDonald's when a guy was short on money for coffee yesterday - he was so appreciative, and it gave him a smile for the day.
Gave me a smile, too.
50
Awww, isn't that nice. My favorite cliche, the NY TImes editorial board, has discovered yet another way to help designated victims with my money, and this time it doesn't even require a tax increase.
13
You're missing the point entirely. It's about *choosing* to give your money to someone in need. I thought conservatives were all about private charity as opposed to public-sector charity.
2
My favorite cliche is a "conservative" whose only measurement of Right and Wrong is "my money."
1
I understand that the reason conservatives oppose public assistance is to support private charity, but you're against that, too? I hope at least you're not spitting on them.
4
Wonderful message today, Editors. More, please.
6
When I lived in NYC, I heard the late Rev. Stephen Garmey give a sermon in which he said exactly the same thing. I have never forgotten him or his words.
Sadly, it's rare to hear such words in a church -- though it's what Jesus told his followers to do.
Sadly, it's rare to hear such words in a church -- though it's what Jesus told his followers to do.
10
I don't understand this at all. A policy of haphazardly giving money to whomever asks is contrary to our responsibility to do the most good with our limited resources. Enabling alcoholism and/or drug addiction does no one any good and is in no way analogous to allowing ourselves guilty pleasures. They are terrible afflictions and their sufferers need help overcoming them, not the means to fall further down that dark abyss.
8
Giving something for short term happiness to someone who sees little of it seems gracious and caring; better than your all-knowing, hubris inspired and I-know-better-than-you technique. Please tell us how this has managed to help eradicate homelessness?
7
I live in the city and also travel for business to the cities surrounding Manhattan in New Jersey and in NY. I have seen the homeless population increasing at an alarming pace. As I work to walk I’m seeing the same people on the same corners, holding the doors at the McDonald’s and the 7-Elevens. On the Subway people asking for a hand out, I would give a buck or some change. They say the homeless population in NYC is close to 60,000.
We have to create jobs and low cost housing, for those less fortunate. Let’s start with the infrastructure and the food industry. People need shelter and food to survive. The world need’s food to live and in our country we started off as farmers.
We have to create jobs and low cost housing, for those less fortunate. Let’s start with the infrastructure and the food industry. People need shelter and food to survive. The world need’s food to live and in our country we started off as farmers.
8
I hope that deep, deep, deep within in the conscience of Pope Francis, he allows himself to momentarily set aside his humility, and is "dropping the mic."
3
This is a wonderful message. It's the same one I was taught as a child growing up as a Catholic: compassion and kindness without judgment. It's what I thought Jesus was all about. I no longer consider myself religious, but those teachings have resonated with me thoughout my life.
13
I don't always give money, but I always say hello or stop to have a chat. I "know" many of the homeless in my neighborhood by name. Couple nights ago we were out for ice cream for my daughter's birthday in an unfamiliar neighborhood. A strong odor was in the shop, and my brother nodded toward a dirty woman sitting alone with a rolling suitcase. Getting warm. We left together as the store closed, and I pulled a 5 from my pocket. "Would you like some ice cream?" She broke into a huge smile, said she was starving, thanked me, and rushed back inside. My kids and I wondered about her on the way home... bipolar? Widow? Abused? Lost her job? I often find that if you stop to talk, there is a story to learn. As for the touching hands...yes! I often hug the homeless Streetwise vendor outside my Starbucks (and occasionally buy her a coffee or a Streetwise). But the hug is the constant. I think it makes us both feel good. Connection is just a basic human need.
15
Thanks so much for this splendid editorial. Pope Francis is entirely right. I live in DC and do encounter many, many panhandlers. I try to respond to as many as I can. Most of us who are well off can thank our parents, our race, our access to education, and a whole lot of other factors for our good fortune. The least we can do is respond to a simple request for dollars.
12
Years ago, as an Advent project, I remember assembling little care-packages - a subway token and a quarter, taped to a snack bar, folded in a piece of paper, a prayer on one side, out-of-the-cold shelters listed on the other. It was my attempt to address the immediate and intermediate needs of the panhandler, and also to acknowledge (without judgement) our common spiritual poverty. Then came spring. Now I just make a point of keeping change in my pocket, and ask only that a little prayer be said for me in return.
12
A splendid idea!
Giving to the needy is always a win-win situation. Whether the receiver uses the gift wisely or foolishly, he still gets something he desires, and the giver still experiences the warm glow of benevolence.
Giving to the needy is always a win-win situation. Whether the receiver uses the gift wisely or foolishly, he still gets something he desires, and the giver still experiences the warm glow of benevolence.
8
It seems that every time Pope Francis takes time to teach his flock, I get tears in my eyes.
I have always followed the "Salvation Army" advice when I encounter a panhandler - to direct them to a Salvation Army or other similar help rather than to give them money. (I first heard this advice from them while touring a Salvation Army facility.) The idea is that most of the folks living on the street have some affliction that is an addiction - drugs or alcohol. Some also may be mentally ill. In either case, the thinking goes, this person needs real help rather than another dose of intoxicants. By refusing to give them money we are really aiding them in their journey to sobriety.
His advice obviously suggests nothing like that. After reading his guidance I can see a third way - and a compassionate reason for it. I am especially touched by the suggestion to look deeply into a persons' eyes and touch them physically. Respect their humanity if you want to touch their soul and really feed them.
Leave it to Pope Francis to look at a problem in a way that I never have. I am a former Catholic but this pope is like no other in my lifetime. Long may he run.
I have always followed the "Salvation Army" advice when I encounter a panhandler - to direct them to a Salvation Army or other similar help rather than to give them money. (I first heard this advice from them while touring a Salvation Army facility.) The idea is that most of the folks living on the street have some affliction that is an addiction - drugs or alcohol. Some also may be mentally ill. In either case, the thinking goes, this person needs real help rather than another dose of intoxicants. By refusing to give them money we are really aiding them in their journey to sobriety.
His advice obviously suggests nothing like that. After reading his guidance I can see a third way - and a compassionate reason for it. I am especially touched by the suggestion to look deeply into a persons' eyes and touch them physically. Respect their humanity if you want to touch their soul and really feed them.
Leave it to Pope Francis to look at a problem in a way that I never have. I am a former Catholic but this pope is like no other in my lifetime. Long may he run.
26
I applaud Pope Francis for urging generosity and compassion. As an NYC resident for 15 years and a frequent volunteer at social service agencies, my experience tells me that generosity and compassion often require discernment. Every agency I've worked with has vigorously discouraged "blind" giving of cash to people on the street.
3
We're all on this planet for such a brief speck of time.
Our lives are about caring and helping each other, it's called humanity.
That's it. Simple.
Our lives are about caring and helping each other, it's called humanity.
That's it. Simple.
20
Bravo! My father taught me this over 50 years ago. It is the kind thing to do. Nothing wrong with that.
10
So many of the posts here comment on how they were taught by a parent to give. I find this touching,and heartening.
5
My mother, too. We were poor, but my mother always told me things like, "If you go to school and someone doesn't have a sandwich, give that kid half of yours. That kid may not have any food at home. We at least have food." We did not live in a palace; my parents were both high school dropouts, but they worked hard. I was the first one in my family to go to college, and I had to finish by going to night school, because I ran out of money to attend during the day. When my son, who's now 36, was in elementary school, I noticed that we were going through bread at a very quick rate. When I went to a PTO meeting, the teacher said, "Thanks for letting him bring extra sandwiches to school. There are some kids whose parents won't fill out the free lunch forms, and your son is feeding them." I had no idea. That's the way it's supposed to be. My mother's advice was passed on to him, even though he never heard her say it.
13
Thank you for this Op-Ed. This Pope has offered profound inspiration in the face of an increasingly combative culture.
4
Compassion is always the right call.
9
Perhaps though it's arguable. However, to the extent that some give out of charity, there shouldn't be forced charity which is what happens with my tax dollars.
I believe it was Jesus himself who was criticized by the religious leadership of his day for elevating compassion over doctrine.
9
Apparently the Pope doesn't need to deal with alcoholic, drug-addicted aggressive panhandlers on a daily basis.
6
Apparently the Pope thinks that alcoholic, drug-addicted aggressive panhandlers are people.
Is he mistaken?
Is he mistaken?
8
They are people who the market has devalued. See: Prosperity Gospel for full details.
1
You need to learn more about the Pope. He has spent much of his life in service to the poor.
7
Compassion is the doctrine, or at least it should be.
9
Francis needs to do a daily column on compassion and its Christian roots, when we're terrified of people in power believing/stoking a global religious war they believe is immanent/already taking us over.
Maybe we can be spared The Crusades mentality if enough "conservative" Catholics can see where a Bannon-Miller ideology will take us and say whoa...
Maybe we can be spared The Crusades mentality if enough "conservative" Catholics can see where a Bannon-Miller ideology will take us and say whoa...
5
Where's he been lately? Feels like we've been living in a world without a Superman these past four months. Time to hit the tour road again, Francis. Remind us to listen and love. Please.
13
"America is in the middle of a raging argument over poor outcasts."
-
News to me. Must be your America. Mine's pretty quiet.
The Pope, as seems usual for him, is speaking from the inside of a privileged bubble. If everyone gave something to a panhandler, then shook her hand, pedestrian and vehicular traffic would come to a standstill. This is the kind of good advice that works well only if almost no one follows it.
-
News to me. Must be your America. Mine's pretty quiet.
The Pope, as seems usual for him, is speaking from the inside of a privileged bubble. If everyone gave something to a panhandler, then shook her hand, pedestrian and vehicular traffic would come to a standstill. This is the kind of good advice that works well only if almost no one follows it.
2
It would be absolutely amazing if the world came to a standstill because of giving. If the whole crazy soul-sucking machine ground to a halt for a moment perhaps we could start back up with love and hope.
4
I am a bleeding heart Liberal who used to be a very giving person with panhandlers, etc. But then I realized after the fact that, quite often, I was being taken. And it's not just the disheveled homeless in the cities either. If you travel the interstates, you will often see someone or a couple at a rest stop claiming that they are almost out of gas and that they need about $10-$20 to get home. You give once or twice and then, if you hang around, you notice that their not getting gas to head home. If you go to tourist stops, you'll get people with similar sob stories. For these people, pan handling is a full-time job. I guess we all have to make ends meet...
I'm not saying that there aren't real homeless who need our help, but, I've reached the point of not helping anyone. And it's not by not giving to them outright, but by avoiding cities or the places that they congregate. Sadly, this adversely affects my positive impact on the economy by spending at businesses in those cities. I'd rather stay home now than be accosted in Manhattan or wherever.
I'm not saying that there aren't real homeless who need our help, but, I've reached the point of not helping anyone. And it's not by not giving to them outright, but by avoiding cities or the places that they congregate. Sadly, this adversely affects my positive impact on the economy by spending at businesses in those cities. I'd rather stay home now than be accosted in Manhattan or wherever.
4
I offer to pay for the gas or buy an sandwich or buy a bus ticket rather then give $ and they disappear.
4
"has infuriated some conservative critics who accuse him, unfairly, of elevating compassion over doctrine. "
Of course. No room for compassion in Christianity,... or conservatism.
Of course. No room for compassion in Christianity,... or conservatism.
10
The Pope is so right. If you can't give to everyone though, give to those who touch your heart and acknowledged the existence of all others with a comment, and look them in the eye. To say I am sorry looking in the eye without judgement is felt by people often regarded as invisible.
14
If the Sulzberger family gives away their fortune to the homeless, this Editorial will be meaningful.
9
This was covered on a much larger scale, long ago in the Bible.
http://michael-hudson.com/2017/01/the-land-belongs-to-god/
http://michael-hudson.com/2017/01/the-land-belongs-to-god/
2
From what I read about this Pope most of his thoughts are interesting and quite different from previous popes, but not every idea is sound. This panhandling is am example of not a good idea. Doesn't this go against the "teach a man to fish" biblical adage?
3
Not unless you are going to get the panhandler education or a job instead.
7
“This is what you shall do; Love the earth and sun and the animals, despise riches, give alms to every one that asks, stand up for the stupid and crazy, devote your income and labor to others, hate tyrants, argue not concerning God, have patience and indulgence toward the people, take off your hat to nothing known or unknown or to any man or number of men, go freely with powerful uneducated persons and with the young and with the mothers of families, read these leaves in the open air every season of every year of your life, re-examine all you have been told at school or church or in any book, dismiss whatever insults your own soul, and your very flesh shall be a great poem and have the richest fluency not only in its words but in the silent lines of its lips and face and between the lashes of your eyes and in every motion and joint of your body.”
—Walt Whitman
—Walt Whitman
32
Pope Francis has the right stuff and has this stuff right.
But it has to have happened to you.
That you find yourself in need and stretch out your hand and do or do not get help.
Once in a while you pity the person who will not even look at you.
So seen from there, it is dead simple.
But sometimes people must have suffered before becoming generous.
A few years after the Greek dictatorship of the seventies ended -- and a nasty regime it was -- I spent some weeks destitute in Athens.
Never did I stand near a street stand wothout being offered something to eat in the kindest way. Never once. Best street food in the world, too.
Maybe I'm a good beggar.
Or maybe the Greeks had suffered and had learned about suffering. Even the police were kind and helped me.
An individual could practice self-restriction to help him or her become more charitable. Anything from not eating cake to not eating. Something deliberate and calm and sustained.
Or promise yourself that the next ten people who ask you for money will get some, and that you will remember them all and think about them -- or even ask them why they are where they are.
I do not think there is anything more important than responding personally to someone's need, and allowing that to inflect your awareness generally.
But it has to have happened to you.
That you find yourself in need and stretch out your hand and do or do not get help.
Once in a while you pity the person who will not even look at you.
So seen from there, it is dead simple.
But sometimes people must have suffered before becoming generous.
A few years after the Greek dictatorship of the seventies ended -- and a nasty regime it was -- I spent some weeks destitute in Athens.
Never did I stand near a street stand wothout being offered something to eat in the kindest way. Never once. Best street food in the world, too.
Maybe I'm a good beggar.
Or maybe the Greeks had suffered and had learned about suffering. Even the police were kind and helped me.
An individual could practice self-restriction to help him or her become more charitable. Anything from not eating cake to not eating. Something deliberate and calm and sustained.
Or promise yourself that the next ten people who ask you for money will get some, and that you will remember them all and think about them -- or even ask them why they are where they are.
I do not think there is anything more important than responding personally to someone's need, and allowing that to inflect your awareness generally.
37
I liked your letter and wonder if the Greeks today, after years of austerity and an enormous wave of desperate refugees, would still be so generous to a stranger in need. I hope so, although I think at some point compassion fatigue might set in.
1
I have read many times about the Greeks who themselves are struggling reaching out to refugees. This speaks loudly of the Greek character.
3
You subsidize things that you want more of. I guess that the pope wants more homeless panhandlers accosting the rest of us. Great strategy, really well thought out.
6
an apple a day writes, "Do NOT give money to panhandlers. Instead, give it to nonprofits in your area that help the homeless."
Give to both.
I give to pan handlers because I like knowing that 100% of my small donation goes to someone who needs it and will use it right away. I have stopped giving to corporate-style non-profits, which I define as organizations that pay any staff member more than $150,000 per year.
Give to both.
I give to pan handlers because I like knowing that 100% of my small donation goes to someone who needs it and will use it right away. I have stopped giving to corporate-style non-profits, which I define as organizations that pay any staff member more than $150,000 per year.
14
When my 25-year-old son and I used to go into Boston during his childhood, we usually encountered beggars on the street near the commuter rail station.
I told my son it was only a twist of fate that THEY were the ones begging on the street and WE were the ones with a nice, comfortable home. It could easily have been the opposite. We of course gave whatever we could to these unlucky people. And we also wished them good luck.
On the other hand, my brother-in-law, when encountering beggars on the street about 30 years ago with his young daughters, would literally say to his daughters that the beggars were "lazy bums who don't want to work."
Well, all these years later, guess who my son voted for, and guess who his cousins voted for. You won't have to try very hard to figure that one out.
I told my son it was only a twist of fate that THEY were the ones begging on the street and WE were the ones with a nice, comfortable home. It could easily have been the opposite. We of course gave whatever we could to these unlucky people. And we also wished them good luck.
On the other hand, my brother-in-law, when encountering beggars on the street about 30 years ago with his young daughters, would literally say to his daughters that the beggars were "lazy bums who don't want to work."
Well, all these years later, guess who my son voted for, and guess who his cousins voted for. You won't have to try very hard to figure that one out.
7
I have played music on th streets for fun as an employed and housed person and THAT made me feel vulnerable in a way that i never felt on stage or anywhere else. It got easier but i never forgot the feeling. I can't imagine what it must feel like to have nothing to offer passers-by but one's humanity and neediness. Looking a homeless person in th eye reaffirms the humanity of both parties. It is th very least we can do. Thank you Pope Francis.
8
Though I still admire the Holy Father (and was just at his Papal Audience this past Ash Wednesday where he delivered a very nice reflection on passing through the desert which Lent represents), I find his selective judgmentalism curious. Though granted the Keys to the Kingdom if Heaven to bind and loose, he refuses to make a rather minor "judgement" on whether those struggling with SSA are suitable candidates for seminaries, yet he is quick to judge whether political candidates are are actually Christian or not who seek to enforce basic immigration laws. Perhaps Matthew 16 grants him authority over the latter but not the former... Not sure... But sometimes I wonder if he spent his seminary days not reading the actual Gospels but listening to Beatles records "Imagining" what the world could be like if "there's no ..."
Pope Francis is speaking to me. I gave money to a relative in dire need of financial help. I feel better knowing that the Pope says it's okay to give and to not worry about it.
5
What would Jesus Christ himself do today in the twenty-first century? Does Pope Francis seriously believe Jesus would advocate giving money to panhandlers who will turn around and buy drugs with that money? The panhandler of today needs more than a few bills or a handshake. Those actions make the donor feel good but makes the underlying problems worse -- far worse.
I don't know what a person will do with my dollar. What I do know is that if you pay people a good wage to stand idly on street corners holding cardboard signs, you'll have plenty of people willing to do it. One thing I notice is that they all have an identical MO. They stand on the very edge of the curb, waving meekly. The sign is always crude, wrinkled and hand-lettered. Clearly, they are being coached, I don't know by whom.
2
Imagine the poverty that could be alleviated with the wealth of the Vatican.
3
Thank you for publishing these eloquent words. I believe that many have missed the point however.
First of all, Pope Francis was not addressing the issue of political pressure on the government and on the wealthy. He has in the past encouraged his listeners to demand charity from powerful organizations. He expects us to vote with compassion and charity at the forefront. He also has reminded us to give to organized charity.
The real point is that the personal encounter that prioritizes SHARED HUMANITY is the prime directive. After you give the money take the person by the hand and look him in the eye. Share a moment of connection and see where it goes. I have always tried to do thos and model it to my kids although I could do more and better .Don't make a quick judgment of worthiness or danger. Reach out to our fellow humans literally.
We do need to give to agencies and pressure our government but these are impersonal and do not let us feel the pain and honor of another individual . We need to do all of these things... often and with a personal stake.
First of all, Pope Francis was not addressing the issue of political pressure on the government and on the wealthy. He has in the past encouraged his listeners to demand charity from powerful organizations. He expects us to vote with compassion and charity at the forefront. He also has reminded us to give to organized charity.
The real point is that the personal encounter that prioritizes SHARED HUMANITY is the prime directive. After you give the money take the person by the hand and look him in the eye. Share a moment of connection and see where it goes. I have always tried to do thos and model it to my kids although I could do more and better .Don't make a quick judgment of worthiness or danger. Reach out to our fellow humans literally.
We do need to give to agencies and pressure our government but these are impersonal and do not let us feel the pain and honor of another individual . We need to do all of these things... often and with a personal stake.
7
Make the drug, smoking and alcohol problems go away and you've solved most of the problem. I see these people on the streets with their cardboard signs, typically tattooed, smoking $15 a-pack cigarettes, talking on cellphones, with skinny booze bottles never too far away.
Solve this and what you'll be left with are the mentally ill who require a totally different kind of treatment, medical not social.
The biggest scourge in my view? Booze!
Solve this and what you'll be left with are the mentally ill who require a totally different kind of treatment, medical not social.
The biggest scourge in my view? Booze!
4
Liquidation of a mere 20% of Vatican treasure would feed the Roman homeless for years. I LOVE this Pope , but certain poverty admonitions coming from his mouth are lost in the blinding, trillion dollar wealth of the church in Rome and world wide. The wealth gap between the church and its poorest members is staggering. He himself is a model of humility but still it's hard to tell the world to give without care from atop a pile of money and jewels so jaw dropping as to make Trumps wealth look tiny. The original Francis actually rejected all trappings of wealth so when he spoke of poverty he had credibility. Much as I love this Pope he has billions and billions of things to do in his own house before telling others how why and when to help the poor.
4
Using human-created doctrine as a cudgel rather than letting Jesus-like compassion determine our behavior is exactly what is wrong with "The church" as well as most organized allegedly Christian churches.
2
Amazing how otherwise liberal people who believe in women's rights, pro choice, pro control of your own body, rights and freedoms for LGBT people are so willing to acquiesce or at least not question a socially conservative Pope who spouts economic feudalistic socialism. Believing that this Pope is a Progressive or anything but a good politician is a fool's errand.
3
If ever there was a case for reincarnation, I'd say Saint Francis of Assisi is walking among us.
8
This is the same Pope who dismisses capitalism yet who presides over a magnificent religious empire worth billions. As Ken Langone has noted he needs to stop biting the hands that feed him. Anti-American socialist policies that have been pushed by the church (see: US Conference of Bishops position paper on "rights") should cost them their tax-free status.
4
I give, but not always. In the real world, you must assess safety. If the person is aggressive or appears irrational, keep a safe distance. Likewise, if there are several homeless in the immediate area and you are alone, don't stop. Use good judgment.
I agree that we shouldn't worry what they might use the money for. They live a very hard life.
I agree that we shouldn't worry what they might use the money for. They live a very hard life.
8
The Pope lives in a bubble of absolute luxury in the gilded palatial Vatican. The immense riches of the Catholic Church were built on the backs of the poorest people in the world, who gave their hard-earned money to the church.
If the Catholic Church really believed in helping the most vulnerable around the world, they would have used the money people donated to make a difference for the world's most vulnerable.
Instead, the Catholic Church pockets most of the money for themselves and then has the chutzpah to tell us that WE (aka 'the little people') should be providing the handouts.
Also, don't forget all the millions the Catholic Church has spent protecting pedophile priests (If you missed the movie 'Spotlight', you should see it).
The Catholic Church is disgustingly corrupt and self-serving bunch of hypocrites.
If the Catholic Church really believed in helping the most vulnerable around the world, they would have used the money people donated to make a difference for the world's most vulnerable.
Instead, the Catholic Church pockets most of the money for themselves and then has the chutzpah to tell us that WE (aka 'the little people') should be providing the handouts.
Also, don't forget all the millions the Catholic Church has spent protecting pedophile priests (If you missed the movie 'Spotlight', you should see it).
The Catholic Church is disgustingly corrupt and self-serving bunch of hypocrites.
10
Actually, this pope seems like an okay guy in many ways. I didn't approve of the last one, or the one before, either, but this is good advice.
I give. What I don't do is believe the stories or pretend to believe them. But I give.
I give. What I don't do is believe the stories or pretend to believe them. But I give.
3
For years I've wondered what if they use my gift for drugs or alcohol. I came up with a solution that works for me: I buy McDonald's gift cards and give out the cards when approached. It makes me feel good knowing I've given a panhandler a meal and the card cannot be used for drugs or alcohol. Try it yourself.
12
The card can be sold or traded for drugs and alcohol, so it's nearly the same as cash.
3
The cards are instantly saleable on the street, often for less than face value. That $5 card nets them $4 or less to add to their drug/alcohol money.
3
They resell your gift card for 30 cents on the dollar and use the proceeds to purchase drugs.
3
How about this: take a plastic grocery bad and fill it with bottled water, some protein bars, a candy bar, some hand wipes and maybe some mouth wash etc. It's now my practice when I go into NYC and so far the receivers have been very grateful.
11
Mr. Luettgen, while it's sad if liquor is where the dollar ends up - it's sadder still to be of the party that contributes mightily to the reason he's on the street to begin with. Dems don't battle the GOP for healthcare, education and equal employment opportunity because they like hearing the dictionary read during filibusters. Dems battle the GOP because nobody grows up hoping to live on a steam grate in a gxdxmn Frigidaire box with no address to receive schizophrenia medication. Sneaky Pete isn't such a good joke when you remember to look a homeless person : there but for the grace of a good health plan, a solid education, and a good job go I.
5
Agreed with the pope.
For many years I cantored in a Catholic church. There are two reasons I left. Once, a family came in while we were rehearsing and asked for food. The answer they got was "you will have to come back when our food pantry is open." WHA??? Someone else sang that mass. I was busy at the grocery store.
The second thing was when there was a family outside of the church asking for whatever. The priest actually declared from the pulpit that we should not help them because they are gypsies. WHA???
That was the last time I was in church.
I continue to give what I might have. More often than not it's something from the grocery. Water, cookies, chips, apples, etc.
I have been in their position and unless you have been there as well you have no real idea of how difficult it is to be disenfranchised in your own country. Telling someone to go away and come back is akin to saying they should go run a marathon.When you are sleeping on the ground and haven't eaten in a few days, then having to muster up the energy to get to someplace you think could help is one of the most difficult experiences anyone can have.
So, if your change or one dollar bill goes to something you may not approve of, what difference does that make in your life? If you gave it away it very well could mean the difference between life and death for the person on the receiving end.
For many years I cantored in a Catholic church. There are two reasons I left. Once, a family came in while we were rehearsing and asked for food. The answer they got was "you will have to come back when our food pantry is open." WHA??? Someone else sang that mass. I was busy at the grocery store.
The second thing was when there was a family outside of the church asking for whatever. The priest actually declared from the pulpit that we should not help them because they are gypsies. WHA???
That was the last time I was in church.
I continue to give what I might have. More often than not it's something from the grocery. Water, cookies, chips, apples, etc.
I have been in their position and unless you have been there as well you have no real idea of how difficult it is to be disenfranchised in your own country. Telling someone to go away and come back is akin to saying they should go run a marathon.When you are sleeping on the ground and haven't eaten in a few days, then having to muster up the energy to get to someplace you think could help is one of the most difficult experiences anyone can have.
So, if your change or one dollar bill goes to something you may not approve of, what difference does that make in your life? If you gave it away it very well could mean the difference between life and death for the person on the receiving end.
4
A moral lecture on giving from one of the richest institutions in the world. I don't think so.
3
This is very freeing for me. Just recently over the objections of my son and his wife, as we were in a restaurant parking lot, I paid for cookies a boy and a little girl were selling "to help finance a trip for a church youth group." My son said it was bogus, but after a couple of questions, I decided to do it, and my daughter said to me to go ahead. The little girl gave me a hug, which made it worthwhile for me. I wasn't really worried about what they did with the money.
But what is really freeing about the pope's answer is that it made me question why everybody tries to make me feel guilty when I gave money to true panhandlers, sometimes with a story, sometimes with just a request. I want to give a little money and not worry about it. I am not well off, but what little I gave didn't really deprive me of anything.
Food pantrys used to give away food to whoever said they needed it. Now, many of them practically do a credit search. I say if a few who haven;t a great need get food, so what, as long as those with real need can get help without being subjected to shame.
I have used SNAP cards, and I have had people carefully watch what I am buying with them. I buy some expensive items for the nutrition I get, but I also eat a lot of rice and beans and pasta, but I have seen people raise their eyebrows when I got fish, or artichoke hearts (for a healthy treat). or bags of shelled walnuts for my oatmeal. I get my caffeine from diet cola. Oh my !!
But what is really freeing about the pope's answer is that it made me question why everybody tries to make me feel guilty when I gave money to true panhandlers, sometimes with a story, sometimes with just a request. I want to give a little money and not worry about it. I am not well off, but what little I gave didn't really deprive me of anything.
Food pantrys used to give away food to whoever said they needed it. Now, many of them practically do a credit search. I say if a few who haven;t a great need get food, so what, as long as those with real need can get help without being subjected to shame.
I have used SNAP cards, and I have had people carefully watch what I am buying with them. I buy some expensive items for the nutrition I get, but I also eat a lot of rice and beans and pasta, but I have seen people raise their eyebrows when I got fish, or artichoke hearts (for a healthy treat). or bags of shelled walnuts for my oatmeal. I get my caffeine from diet cola. Oh my !!
9
My mailbox is full of people extolling me to give them money and my phone rings several times a day for the same reason. What does the Pope say about that?
Do I have to give to all of them?
Do I have to give to all of them?
3
I have no problem with the donating part or looking in the eye of the recipient. But there is no way I am touching the hand of a beggar. Who knows what disease that person has or where his hand was last.
The Scripture that this brought to mind for me was Matthew 5:42: "Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you." This is immediately followed by, “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
I am a Christian who does not find these commands particularly easy to follow. I do think that the Christian moral imagination has something to contribute to the mess in which our country now finds itself. I would rather not love those who voted differently than I last November---I'd rather think of them as rotten people who aren't worth the trouble. My obligation stands. Perhaps this is why Jesus speaks about loving one's enemies in the same breath as giving to the poor. It seems to me that he was suggesting that hatred---that which I feel for my enemies and/or they for me----impoverishes in ways that may be much worse than material poverty. Love, and we are talking not about idiot compassion, but the kind of love that requires courage and sacrifice, enriches in all directions.
I am a Christian who does not find these commands particularly easy to follow. I do think that the Christian moral imagination has something to contribute to the mess in which our country now finds itself. I would rather not love those who voted differently than I last November---I'd rather think of them as rotten people who aren't worth the trouble. My obligation stands. Perhaps this is why Jesus speaks about loving one's enemies in the same breath as giving to the poor. It seems to me that he was suggesting that hatred---that which I feel for my enemies and/or they for me----impoverishes in ways that may be much worse than material poverty. Love, and we are talking not about idiot compassion, but the kind of love that requires courage and sacrifice, enriches in all directions.
6
I love the charity and loving kindness of the man. I only wish our politicians who profess to be Christian would act like it.
3
I have long had a policy of giving a dollar - if I have it handy - to anyone who asks. Even more important is acknowledging the person who asks by looking them in the eye when giving the dollar or when saying, "not today."
My daughters have seen me do this many times and think of it as a normal thing to do. I've explained that our lives, are far better than people begging in the streets; that begging is a hard way to make a buck; and that beggars should be free to do whatever they want with the small amount of money we give.
At the same time, I also explain that many people don't feel comfortable giving and that's fine too.
The most important thing is to acknowledge the people who ask for money as people. Even if you don't give a dollar you can give them a "no thanks" or a "not now" and a bit of humanity by acknowledging their existence.
My daughters have seen me do this many times and think of it as a normal thing to do. I've explained that our lives, are far better than people begging in the streets; that begging is a hard way to make a buck; and that beggars should be free to do whatever they want with the small amount of money we give.
At the same time, I also explain that many people don't feel comfortable giving and that's fine too.
The most important thing is to acknowledge the people who ask for money as people. Even if you don't give a dollar you can give them a "no thanks" or a "not now" and a bit of humanity by acknowledging their existence.
3
For years, each time I've seen a homeless person on the street there has been a struggle between my heart and my head. "What if this person doesn't use this money in the 'right' way?" Now I wonder who I think I am to know what the right way is for another person? So, though my heart always wants to give, in my thoughts I’ve judged more than I care to admit. I'm not young anymore and, though it's taken many years, I'm learning to live from my heart and embody my awareness of how truly interconnected we all are, how human. And though, for me, this is still difficult at times, I’m consciously choosing to be kind, to live more from my heart and I will give more to those who have so little. And if I judge, I’ll try to be aware of that judgment and know that’s a part of me who needs kindness and compassion. I’ll try to remember that life isn’t fair, the playing fields of the world aren’t level, we don’t all have the same opportunities and supports to make it. I’m appreciative of this article and the kindness of the comments. And as someone who was raised in a Roman Catholic environment fully immersed in the need to control and demand obedience rather than foster Christ-like hearts, I am curious about this Pope and look forward to reading more of his words. And when I see those who have so little sitting on the streets, or sleeping in the subways because there aren’t enough safe services available to them, I will give with a more open heart.
6
I love this. And I love the way this pope thinks.
Why is it ok for someone to drop a few thousand at a casino or spend their money on gold plated bathroom fixtures but I'm a sucker for giving $1 to the guy sleeping on the street? It gives me pleasure in using my money that way and - who knows? - maybe it actually makes someone's day a little easier.
Why is it ok for someone to drop a few thousand at a casino or spend their money on gold plated bathroom fixtures but I'm a sucker for giving $1 to the guy sleeping on the street? It gives me pleasure in using my money that way and - who knows? - maybe it actually makes someone's day a little easier.
9
My life does not involve frequent contact with panhandlers. When I know I'm going somewhere they are likely to be, I shove a couple of Cliff bars in my pocket. They cost about a dollar and they are just food. You can't easily trade three Cliff bars for half a pint of vodka.
Years ago, I volunteered with a group of Hindus, working out of a Catholic soup kitchen, making bag lunches on Saturday for anyone who came. Eye contact, a kind word are important. There's nothing ever wrong with giving someone food.
Years ago, I volunteered with a group of Hindus, working out of a Catholic soup kitchen, making bag lunches on Saturday for anyone who came. Eye contact, a kind word are important. There's nothing ever wrong with giving someone food.
4
I have resisted giving $ for the reason described (they are going to use the $ in a way I don't approve of, that won't help them) This way of thinking has also been the the easy way out for me, so I can ignore and walk away. In Trump's America, I'm not letting myself off the hook anymore. I'm going to try Pope Francis's way- already thinking about where to park my car on a corner where panhandle's are so I can give in the right spirit- and it's not going to be easy.
4
It is a rare, very rare pleasure to see an article about a member of the Catholic church teaching Catholic values that actually maps to the moral beauty of the teachings I was brought up with as a Catholic. I was raised by teachers in a Catholic school that emphasized this deep commitment and respect for others, including the least fortunate in our society. It is one of the hallmarks of Jesus' teaching and is too often left out of the way that Catholicism gets represented in the wider culture. Thank you for this article, and thank you to Pope Francis!
6
I've just begun lately giving what change I may have in my pocket to the first person I meet with their hand out on the streets of my town. It's not compassion that makes me give but, as the Pope says, the fact that I have been lucky in my life thus far and what pain will I feel giving up a few coins? I don't care what they do with the money I give them. Once it passes from my hand it belongs to them and I have no control. I don't care what shopkeepers do with the money I give them in exchange for their goods; they may be living the wild life, buying Jack, snorting drugs, and going to strip clubs. In either case, how they live their lives is none of my business (it may be society's business, but that's another comment).
3
I’ll go the Pope one better –
I’ll change my policy about giving, but give where the inhabitants can do something about the crisis. Here in some of our working class areas, like Queens, we’re inundated by homeless. Why? Do those who live closer to the poverty line understand better, and help more? I don’t know. But I will apply the Pope’s teaching in the wealthier areas of Manhattan, increasing the optics of how so many of us suffer.
So don’t just give, but give in the areas where the increased optics just might make a difference. Like near my office (Lookout One57.) Just kidding about one-upping the Pope, by the way.
I’ll change my policy about giving, but give where the inhabitants can do something about the crisis. Here in some of our working class areas, like Queens, we’re inundated by homeless. Why? Do those who live closer to the poverty line understand better, and help more? I don’t know. But I will apply the Pope’s teaching in the wealthier areas of Manhattan, increasing the optics of how so many of us suffer.
So don’t just give, but give in the areas where the increased optics just might make a difference. Like near my office (Lookout One57.) Just kidding about one-upping the Pope, by the way.
3
Maybe, just maybe, the pope and the Catholic Church, which might very well be one of the 5 richest entities in the world, should sell their priceless works of art (oh I don't know, the Pieta by Michelangelo, that sits right at the entrance to St. Peter's could be a good start) and take care, literally, of millions of impoverished. The Catholic Church (and I was brought up in that faith) is wildly hypocritical and medieval in its ways. The organization that has for hundreds of years enslaved and abused millions has no place talking about poverty or the homeless. Awful. Maybe they have more child abuse they can cover up...
I worked the Cold weather sweeps in Philadelphia as a psychiatrist where we admitted to either mental health or detox facilities when the temperature was below a number. I also lived in Center City (downtown). To my upset, a lot of the homeless panhandlers that I had given money too were spending it on drugs and alcohol. So then I offered to buy them food instead which a lot of them accepted. Pope or no pope giving money to a substance abuser is enabling them in their addiction.
3
Instead of giving your money to the poor, I advocate giving your vote to those who would create a strong social safety net so that the poor no longer need to panhandle or be homeless. Sorry, Pope, but your solution (all except the part about human contact and seeing the less fortunate as human beings just like oneself) is only a band-aid, and increases not only economic inequality but also social inequality.
I love the Pope's message here, as I have with so many of his statements. He makes me feel more hopeful about the Church. And I do always give to those asking when I encounter them--when I think about the way I spend money on the things I need, blessed that I don't have to count my pennies to cover my necessities, it occurs to me--what does this handful of change mean to me, as opposed to what it means to the asker? I'd probably end up throwing it in my change jar, when someone in need may use it for food, shelter, or yes, even a glass of wine or a beer (people in need are entitled to some comfort, too).
But I have to agree with another poster here, that at the same time it troubles me to think of the riches the Catholic Church possesses, and to wish that the Church itself could be a little more modest and humble in its trappings, like the Pope himself. My local church sends me envelopes every month--sometimes I use them, sometimes I just put money in the basket at mass. I was stunned to receive a statement from them at the end of the year, documenting my giving. It seemed like something I should receive from a utility company or a bank; instead it felt as if I were being judged against this ledger of how much I gave (or didn't give). And that bothers me because the Church clings to its riches and then expects people like me to support its schools and its mission.
Lent is call to sacrifice, to reflect, and to give alms--but what alms does the Church itself give?
But I have to agree with another poster here, that at the same time it troubles me to think of the riches the Catholic Church possesses, and to wish that the Church itself could be a little more modest and humble in its trappings, like the Pope himself. My local church sends me envelopes every month--sometimes I use them, sometimes I just put money in the basket at mass. I was stunned to receive a statement from them at the end of the year, documenting my giving. It seemed like something I should receive from a utility company or a bank; instead it felt as if I were being judged against this ledger of how much I gave (or didn't give). And that bothers me because the Church clings to its riches and then expects people like me to support its schools and its mission.
Lent is call to sacrifice, to reflect, and to give alms--but what alms does the Church itself give?
2
Bless the pope. I am not religious, but I think it should be obvious to anyone that religious institutions house more than their share of hypocrites. It is so heartening that the Catholics have chosen a man who is a strong and uncompromising moral authority to be their leader.
1
I am inspired by the simple sentiment. I will give with the courage to look those in the eyes and hope we will all look out for one another
2
I think the Pope misses the boat. He says we should give to the homeless because that's what the scriptures call for. And he says it is important that we look at street people as fellow human beings. But his focus is on the giver, and that is wrong. Charity should be about the recipient. Of those who work most closely with the homeless, some are indifferent about our giving and some are opposed. And almost all will tell you that it doesn't help their efforts for the homeless to be panhandling for hours each day.
What about the young panhandlers who frequent the subway system on a daily basis? They are better dressed then many of those not looking for a handout. The truly needy should be helped but the imposters should be ignored.
The elevation of our collective consciousness may be our only ability to move out of the divisiveness of this American moment. homeless, black, gay, transgender, immigrant, muslim, - we have 'othered' away out of collective humanity until very few are left who are part of a circle of love or trust. This pope seems to often bring it back to the simple and profound. reminded me of the beginning of this Walt Whitman quote.
"This is what you shall do; Love the earth and sun and the animals, despise riches, give alms to every one that asks, stand up for the stupid and crazy, devote your income and labor to others, hate tyrants, argue not concerning God, have patience and indulgence toward the people, take off your hat to nothing known or unknown or to any man or number of men, go freely with powerful uneducated persons and with the young and with the mothers of families, read these leaves in the open air every season of every year of your life, re-examine all you have been told at school or church or in any book, dismiss whatever insults your own soul, and your very flesh shall be a great poem and have the richest fluency not only in its words but in the silent lines of its lips and face and between the lashes of your eyes and in every motion and joint of your body.”
"This is what you shall do; Love the earth and sun and the animals, despise riches, give alms to every one that asks, stand up for the stupid and crazy, devote your income and labor to others, hate tyrants, argue not concerning God, have patience and indulgence toward the people, take off your hat to nothing known or unknown or to any man or number of men, go freely with powerful uneducated persons and with the young and with the mothers of families, read these leaves in the open air every season of every year of your life, re-examine all you have been told at school or church or in any book, dismiss whatever insults your own soul, and your very flesh shall be a great poem and have the richest fluency not only in its words but in the silent lines of its lips and face and between the lashes of your eyes and in every motion and joint of your body.”
2
I am not a christian, but I feel so humbled when I read about this pope. I first realized that he is a different kind of pope, when I learnt that he went to a jail to wash the feet of some prisoners, that he calls on people directly, that he has a modest room for sleeping, etc.
I think he is showing us all the meaning of Christ's message - Love All, Serve All
I think he is showing us all the meaning of Christ's message - Love All, Serve All
6
Poor Francis. Donald, will giving money to the needy, feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting those in jail, or offering genuine refugees a home, will all that really make the church great again?
Under this new Trump administration, we would do well to listen to any advise that advises empathy and compassion over greed and cruelty.
2
I usual give something without judgement. I feel if a person has the wherewithal to stand out in the weather asking each person for a gift, some giving and some cursing, they deserve the rewards and can due whatever they want with the money.
2
This street-charitable Pope is, like most Popes, Catholic, and we are pleased, even maybe smug, to be chastised and scourged for our fashionable hard-hearted homeless avoidance,
YET this same Catholicism, is one source of rather permanent views against abortion, homosexuality, same sex marriage, and many other anathema of the Left, so is the Pope a "cafeteria Catholic?"
And, so what is a person to do, who wishes to be at least as Catholic as the Pope
=
as for charity, do we not have a mantra - that - give a wo/man a fish and s/he is hungry tomorrow, teach a wo/man to fish and s/he has a livelihood and food source,
Please do not abuse or over-literalize the metaphor, there is a point there, that donational street-charity is not helpful, very much more than moral preening
YET this same Catholicism, is one source of rather permanent views against abortion, homosexuality, same sex marriage, and many other anathema of the Left, so is the Pope a "cafeteria Catholic?"
And, so what is a person to do, who wishes to be at least as Catholic as the Pope
=
as for charity, do we not have a mantra - that - give a wo/man a fish and s/he is hungry tomorrow, teach a wo/man to fish and s/he has a livelihood and food source,
Please do not abuse or over-literalize the metaphor, there is a point there, that donational street-charity is not helpful, very much more than moral preening
Pope Frances has given good advice! I have given to charitable organizations most of my adult life , Red Cross, Salvation Army, various veterans organizations, and others. I really don't know what they do with the money, but I think it is important to give when you can. Perhaps the panhandler will go buy booze or maybe he/she will use the money to purchase foods for others. We just don't know. Its not important to know. What is important is that when giving you are being Christlike.
3
Giver, receiver, and gift are the same. One bright twinkling of connection. We open our hearts and receive the blessing.
3
From the article: Pope Francis's "teaching on divorced and remarried Catholics has infuriated some conservative critics who accuse him, unfairly, of elevating compassion over doctrine."
And I thought the original doctrine was compassion. Pope Francis reminds us of that in his words and actions.
And I thought the original doctrine was compassion. Pope Francis reminds us of that in his words and actions.
2
I was taught this lesson by my young daughter who after we bypassed a beggar, doubled back to give her most of the money she had with her. We missed our train that day, but she taught me an important lesson about whether its worse to be taken advantage of or to bypass someone genuinely in need.
7
Sorry Pope, I "beg" to differ. NYC is the easiest place to give someone in need something they need and there are too many drug and alcohol addicts and people just looking to make a buck without having to work for it.
When someone asks me for money I always offer to buy them something to eat and 90% of the time they say yes and are so very grateful for the help.
Any deli can easily make a homeless person or someone panhandling happy, it's a very small donation, and 100% of your funds directly benefit the recipient.
When someone asks me for money I always offer to buy them something to eat and 90% of the time they say yes and are so very grateful for the help.
Any deli can easily make a homeless person or someone panhandling happy, it's a very small donation, and 100% of your funds directly benefit the recipient.
2
I have been away from the Church for longer than I was with it. This Pope has represented Our Lord on more occasions than I can mention. I love it when he makes me think of my actions and face them as Christlike or Not. Matthew 25:40 has hit home for me today!
3
Hey Francis-Tell Dolan. He's living in style, a penthouse on 5th Ave or his 8 million dollar lake house. And then taking out a $100 million dollar loan to pay off the sin of the sexual abuse pandemic he and his pals allowed. Who
will pay that mortgage? Dolan? Francis?
Move out and let the poor in! Sell it all! Enough with the fat priest living the high life on our dime and then preaching to us that we aren't being generous enough. They have no problem closing schools and throwing students, teachers and parents to the Romans. The Cardinal was surprised and angry his annual appeal for money isn't the winner it used to be. He urged priests to encourage us towards "demonstrating sacrificial generosity" complaining that Protestants and Jewish congregations certainly do. Hey Dolan if they didn't give you an answer, I will.
You'll get no more of my money for anything. You've failed the church, and us with it, with your gluttony, your abusive unaccountable system, and your shameless opulence. It's why none of come to church anymore, and why we ignore your backwards and hate filled views on social issues.
The message from the Pope is obviously admirable, unfortunately it's also empty coming from the leader of such a failed and hypocritical organization. We hear that the new Pope abhors the trappings of wealth. We hear that opulence is on the way out.
Less talk.
More action.
will pay that mortgage? Dolan? Francis?
Move out and let the poor in! Sell it all! Enough with the fat priest living the high life on our dime and then preaching to us that we aren't being generous enough. They have no problem closing schools and throwing students, teachers and parents to the Romans. The Cardinal was surprised and angry his annual appeal for money isn't the winner it used to be. He urged priests to encourage us towards "demonstrating sacrificial generosity" complaining that Protestants and Jewish congregations certainly do. Hey Dolan if they didn't give you an answer, I will.
You'll get no more of my money for anything. You've failed the church, and us with it, with your gluttony, your abusive unaccountable system, and your shameless opulence. It's why none of come to church anymore, and why we ignore your backwards and hate filled views on social issues.
The message from the Pope is obviously admirable, unfortunately it's also empty coming from the leader of such a failed and hypocritical organization. We hear that the new Pope abhors the trappings of wealth. We hear that opulence is on the way out.
Less talk.
More action.
2
Hard medicine from the Pope, who as usual on these matters is right. One hopes that his spirit will continue and last and that his influence on a corrupt and often selfish church will last.
1
I agree with the sentiment, but I don't know if its necessarily helpful to give money to someone who will probably use it to buy drugs (or alcohol) on the street. I know many panhandlers don't do this, but I do feel that most probably do use the money for drugs or alcohol. To me its always seemed better and more productive to give to local groups who help the homeless by providing them meals and shelter, rather than giving directly to people begging for money. I do like this Pope though (which for me as an Buddhism-leaning agnostic is kind of a new thing), but I don't agree completely with his recommendation. I'd rather give to groups which I know (believe) are helping the homeless in healthy ways. Generally treating them like human beings rather than an annoyance to get past on the sidewalk, does sound like a very good thing to be preaching though.
2
20 years ago The Times was calling for homeless people to be removed from the steps of Fifth Avenue Presbyterian church calling the congregation's acquiescence misguided and decrying the "eyesore."
Nice to see an institution evolve for the better.
Nice to see an institution evolve for the better.
4
Turned my thinking on its head. What a simple act. As a bonus, it removes all the remorse created by ignoring or not giving to a fellow human in need.
3
This Pope really understands what it means to be a good human being. A dear departed friend told us the story of his folks inviting in the men who came asking for food during the Depression. His family had very modest means but they would share their meal and then walk with the man to the train tracks. Sending him on with a sandwich or two and all waving farewell.
1
I regularly buy Subway gift cards to hand out (that's the fast food restaurant, not the transit system). I know funds are fungible, but this way I don't have to worry that my donation, at least, will go to vodka. And yes, I do talk to the folks who are begging, and yes, they love the cards. (It helps that they are worth $10.) Another way to donate is to give folks bags of 5 cent recyclable cans and bottles. That's honorable all around---you're recycling without expending a lot of labor (I am old and not strong), and the recipient is putting in useful labor for their income.
145
Actually, gift cards are regularly sold at pawn shops for cash (10 cents on the dollar), and a hit of heroin is just $5.
A good plan... but I knew a woman who would take the gift cards her family gave her (they wouldn't give her cash because they didn't want her to spend it on drugs and alcohol) and use them as collateral for someone to buy her alcohol or something else. So a $50 Target gift card just became $25 in collateral for beer. If she got cash, she might buy the gift card back... if not, the recipient came out ahead. Sort of like a pawn shop.
Pope Francis and me share a habit, which is perhaps a venial sin. A glass of wine.
My rule is never give to people on the street, as a matter of personal safety. There is an element of confrontation that I do not like. As a traveler to various countries, I am a target for beggars, scammers and thieves. If you are a tourist, you are a target.
Tip. Always tip. Directly to the people providing the service. It goes straight off to the people who are working tough jobs. They appreciate the money, and it supports not only them, but their families.
My rule is never give to people on the street, as a matter of personal safety. There is an element of confrontation that I do not like. As a traveler to various countries, I am a target for beggars, scammers and thieves. If you are a tourist, you are a target.
Tip. Always tip. Directly to the people providing the service. It goes straight off to the people who are working tough jobs. They appreciate the money, and it supports not only them, but their families.
53
Not all tips go directly to the server. In some restaurants, servers "tip out" to the bus boy, the bar, the expediter, and others. Not tipping does reach their pockets directly though, because they still have to tip out based on sales, not on tips received. So if you don't tip, or undertip, it could end up costing your server money to serve you.
3
In the city it can be hard to find fresh food. Last winter in Miami I packed an extra lunch of fruits and vegetables, hummus and nuts and raisins and gave it to a very sweet homeless woman in poor health (her legs were very swollen, she had trouble walking) who hung out at Starbucks, where I worked daily on my computer. As a woman I felt comfortable doing this. She didn't smoke or drink that I could tell. She just read her bible everyday and tried to sleep. Occasionally I bought her a sandwich as well and a few times I gave her a little cash. After a couple of months of bringing her healthy food (I told her it was like medicine - very healing - and she ate it.) After a couple of months the police finally told her she had to leave or go to jail, as the manager had complained). Fortunately a church group did step in to help her. They drove her back to Starbucks not long afterwards and she got out of the car to give me a gift, in a little brown paper bag. It was a small wooden cross she had painted herself with a little red cross in the center of it. I gave her a big hug, a little cash and my phone number. She said she would always remember me. I will always remember her as well, as a very sweet person. I helped her because I just can't stand to see people hungry. It really upsets me. And I feel that there are a lot of health, mental and physical is due to poor nutrition. Very sad to hear the republicans want to block free lunch for poor children.
11
To those for whom Giving is painful: One day many years ago, I was walking in town, and at the time, I wore a black onyx antique ring, that was irritating me, so I took it off and put it into my pocket.
Finally, nearing my destination, I had forgotten entirely about the ring. I did recall that the very same pocket that held my Onyx ring was over burdened by hastily gathered coins from home.
Full of my self, as youth often is, I passed a pandhandler on Waverly Place, remembering the coins, I plunged my right hand into that pocket and gave the beggar all the money and, unknowingly, a very costly black onyx ring.
A few blocks later I said "Oh!,The Ring!" I got a wry smile on my face, and was glad I had an opportunity to be genorous to one who needed it more than I did.
Good experience? I still tell that story, 40 years since. Do I miss the ring? No! I was and am still I could be so geneorous in spite of myself.
Finally, nearing my destination, I had forgotten entirely about the ring. I did recall that the very same pocket that held my Onyx ring was over burdened by hastily gathered coins from home.
Full of my self, as youth often is, I passed a pandhandler on Waverly Place, remembering the coins, I plunged my right hand into that pocket and gave the beggar all the money and, unknowingly, a very costly black onyx ring.
A few blocks later I said "Oh!,The Ring!" I got a wry smile on my face, and was glad I had an opportunity to be genorous to one who needed it more than I did.
Good experience? I still tell that story, 40 years since. Do I miss the ring? No! I was and am still I could be so geneorous in spite of myself.
6
A simple message spoken by a simple man. Yet, powerful words reminded by such a man of such proper power and leadership.
2
"Give them the money, and don't worry about it." So disarmingly fresh, moral and compassionate - and the Pope is to be commended for it. But where is the same freshness, morality and compassion in his stance on the ordination of women, which is just as much a no-brainer.
1
I've always followed the philosophy that 90% of my fellow man is honest and I'm not going to make them pay for the 10% who take advantage. Who am I too judge.
I have a friend who got sick, lost her home and spent a year living on the streets. Many Americans are closer to being homeless then they care to admit.
The Pope as always is very wise and very compassionate.
I have a friend who got sick, lost her home and spent a year living on the streets. Many Americans are closer to being homeless then they care to admit.
The Pope as always is very wise and very compassionate.
1
"His teaching on divorced and remarried Catholics has infuriated some conservative critics who accuse him, unfairly, of elevating compassion over doctrine."
Compassion is the only doctrine. Compassion is Christ in action.
Compassion is the only doctrine. Compassion is Christ in action.
7
My sister-in-law recently encountered a distraught woman who claimed someone had stolen her last cash. Feeling sorry for her, my sister-in-law, who is not well-off herself, pulled out $40, put it in the woman's hand and said "bless you."
The woman turned on her heel and walked away, never thanking my in-law or even looking her in the eye.
What would the pope say about this?
Personally, I give no money to individuals and lots to social-service agencies. They're pros at figuring out who's truly needy and who's scamming.
What would the pope say about my approach?
The woman turned on her heel and walked away, never thanking my in-law or even looking her in the eye.
What would the pope say about this?
Personally, I give no money to individuals and lots to social-service agencies. They're pros at figuring out who's truly needy and who's scamming.
What would the pope say about my approach?
1
I wonder if Pope Francis has seen the crusties. All right. I'll try his suggestion for a week and see how it goes. This will require stocking up on dollar bills and keeping them in an easily accessible pocket. To fulfill Francis's second suggestion of recognizing the panhandlers' humanity as I hand over the currency, I think I might look them in the eye and say, "The pope said to give this to you."
1
If the Pope and the Catholic Church want to help the poor, they should do what they preach and sell The Vatican to the highest bidder and give the proceeds to the poor around the world. In fact, this goes to all religions. Another measure would be to tax all "houses of faith" and have the proceeds support the needy from each community.
1
Wise words. I'm not a Catholic, but I listen to what this man has to say. His guidance speaks to the essence of what it means to live an honorable life.
I will look into the eyes of the next person asking for help. I will not judge.
I will look into the eyes of the next person asking for help. I will not judge.
3
The man heads an organization which sits on a fortune, literally.
Yes, they do much, but they can do more. Sell off some artwork. Use the proceeds to house homeless, many of whom are touched in the head.
Yes, they do much, but they can do more. Sell off some artwork. Use the proceeds to house homeless, many of whom are touched in the head.
1
I have often been criticized by friends, giving money(sometimes a sandwich) to homeless people. I have always felt I am giving them a gift of choice, as to the way they spend it. If is drugs /alcohol, perhaps the next day it won't be. It is hope and choice I give to them and to myself and I always look at them and speak to them freely, without judgment. Not a church goer, but I remember the compassion of Jesus and we are all his children.
3
I agree completely with the Pope that we should give to panhandlers. However, I disagree entirely that we shouldn't care about what they do with the money. I've been burned too many times by homeless people that have purchased cigarettes or booze with the money I'm hoping will go toward sustaining them. My solution: buy them what they need. A number of times I've asked a homeless person what they'd like to eat and fulfilled their request. I've gotten them Subway sandwiches, hot dogs, groceries from a convenience/grocery store, etc. I know this might not be what they are looking for, but it is how I feel comfortable giving.
We pay $40,000 a year for each homeless person. There are believed to be about 560,000 homeless across the country. So the total budget for services is $22.4 billion per year. Most of the homeless have their basic needs attended to., other than housing They are seldom starving and they are generally living around the poverty level. They don't get rich from panhandling And those who service them regularly have far more of an effect on their lives than a few bucks. Whether you give or not may be more important to you than to them. I generally give cigarettes -- they all smoke and cigarettes are so damn expensive. Sometimes I smoke one with them (without inhaling). Other than not having a place to live, it has always struck me that the worst thing about being homeless is smoking other people's butts.
Genuine, brother. Genuine
When I begin to doubt if I should give to a panhandler, I imagine how few steps there is between my life and theirs, how I would like to be treated if I ever were to step into their shoes, and then any doubt evaporates. I live in a small town but travel often to large cities, where I try to have some money in my pocket to distribute to the inevitable homeless I will meet on the street. Thank you Pope Francis for encouraging more to pay it forward.
4
I love the pope but feel it's unfortunate that we as a planet jump with joy when a Christian in power actually ives as Christ would. Shouldn't he be the norm, not the once-in-a-millenia exception? On that note, how about a worldwide year of debt forgiveness: http://www.nakedcapitalism.com/2017/02/michael-hudson-why-failing-to-sol...
3
I agree with this. If only I had enough money to assist all of the homeless individuals I see on my way to and from work every day. I've struggled with this issue. It pains me to know that there are people who don't have a home.
6
From time to time the Catholics get it right. This is one of those times.
The policy of this non-believer: just give. The disposition of that small gift is, as my believing friends might say, between the recipient and his god.
Looking the recipient in the eye brings a touch of humanity to a tortured human being.
The policy of this non-believer: just give. The disposition of that small gift is, as my believing friends might say, between the recipient and his god.
Looking the recipient in the eye brings a touch of humanity to a tortured human being.
3
This is the same advice a Buddhist nun who has many followers gives. However, she adds that one should give five or ten dollars (or as much as you can), not just a dollar or some change. She said that when she lived in San Francisco that she would make sure she had cash before going out and that she had it organized and ready to hand out so that there was no fumbling around. She also emphasizes that it's not our concern what the recipients do with the money.
4
Agree, doling out tiny sums is not going to help much, give something that can buy something like $10-20 as often as possible, it may be only once a week but probably does more than giving out tiny amounts. $1 today is like giving 25 cents.
"Please do not give them money" said a San Francisco city social worker friend as we walked or drove around downtown passing people holding cups or signs containing a story. Some she knew, homeless people were her only clients.
She outlined all the services and money provided her clients and said they use the money for illegal street drugs and alcohol that are not helping them. Enabling some to avoid taking their prescribed medications that do help them.
She outlined all the services and money provided her clients and said they use the money for illegal street drugs and alcohol that are not helping them. Enabling some to avoid taking their prescribed medications that do help them.
3
I firmly support the pope's sentiments. At the same time the church owns more than a trillion dollars in property in both real estate and artifacts. What if they just take that dough snd give it to the poor, or better yet, offer it to organizations that help the poor, run by people with no motive for personal enrichment?
3
I understand your point but don't forget they do operate many organizations that provide direct help to the poor, and have for centuries. Running out of money entirely and selling off art works would put an eventual end to that practice.
2
Interesting, indeed, Pope.
In our travels among base communities in Guatemala, our host asked us not to give to those seeking donations. Our host worked with the poorest of the poor, and had his life (and that of his family) threatened numerous times.
Instead, he asked that we extend a verbal blessing and that we seek out and give generously to an organization that would make a significant difference in literacy, co-op establishment, small ag via community plots of lands, skill based training.
Since have opted to go with our hosts approach rather than the Pope's.
In our travels among base communities in Guatemala, our host asked us not to give to those seeking donations. Our host worked with the poorest of the poor, and had his life (and that of his family) threatened numerous times.
Instead, he asked that we extend a verbal blessing and that we seek out and give generously to an organization that would make a significant difference in literacy, co-op establishment, small ag via community plots of lands, skill based training.
Since have opted to go with our hosts approach rather than the Pope's.
1
it is not a black and white either or situation
2
I used to be a self-righteously hard-hearted person when it came to giving to panhandlers, but then two things happened. First, I began volunteering in an agency that served street kids, and I got to know them as human beings. Then, I volunteered down South after Hurricane Katrina, and the priest who ran the relief center told us, "You can either judge people or serve them. You don't know their story."
Volunteering taught me that the life of a street person is a constant struggle against boredom, hunger, thirst, dirt, cold, the indifference or hostility of the mainstream public, and victimization by the bad apples among the street population. Someone who is on the streets is so far down the socioeconomic ladder that booze and drugs may be self-medication for severe depression, because they sure aren't going to get treated anywhere else. The people at the agency told us, "It's up to you whether to give or not, but always be pleasant and polite. These are human beings."
Volunteering taught me that the life of a street person is a constant struggle against boredom, hunger, thirst, dirt, cold, the indifference or hostility of the mainstream public, and victimization by the bad apples among the street population. Someone who is on the streets is so far down the socioeconomic ladder that booze and drugs may be self-medication for severe depression, because they sure aren't going to get treated anywhere else. The people at the agency told us, "It's up to you whether to give or not, but always be pleasant and polite. These are human beings."
5
I agree with this, with one caveat, something I've thought about for years. It is intrinsically uncomfortable when a man accosts me, a woman, on the street for whatever his reasons. I'm not sure how to resolve this, but I feel way less threatened when a homeless woman approaches me than a homeless man. We women are hard-wired to avoid unnecessary contact with unknowns of the opposite sex.
I never hesitate to help people, but it's the men that make me hope I'm not making a mistake.
Just saying.
I never hesitate to help people, but it's the men that make me hope I'm not making a mistake.
Just saying.
1
I am generally against organized religion, but this Pope had won my respect. As for so many things he has so much heart. The elected officials in my city say not to give to homeless so that they will be encouraged to partake of city services. I think the Pope is right. We should give and not worry about it.
2
For some time, I've had a habit of giving $1 to anyone I encountered who asked. I always tell the person to take care, and if it seems appropriate, that I pray for them.
We have a paper sold in our town called Real Change. Vendors, often homeless or coming put of homelessness, buy it for $.60 and sell for $2.00. I always buy a copy from every vendor, even if I already have that issue.
Thank you, dear Pope Francis.
We have a paper sold in our town called Real Change. Vendors, often homeless or coming put of homelessness, buy it for $.60 and sell for $2.00. I always buy a copy from every vendor, even if I already have that issue.
Thank you, dear Pope Francis.
1
Absolutely!
So often we further dehumanise the very people we think we are helping.
It is not enough to 'give' but give with love. That giving might be a smile, a nod, a true acknowledgement of their personhood, not their provisional circumstances.
The ultimate gift is the gift of humanity.
So often we further dehumanise the very people we think we are helping.
It is not enough to 'give' but give with love. That giving might be a smile, a nod, a true acknowledgement of their personhood, not their provisional circumstances.
The ultimate gift is the gift of humanity.
3
"A decent provision for the poor, is the true test of civilization."
- Samuel Johnson
When someone objected to Johnson that if you gave money to beggars they might spend it on gin or tobacco, he replied, "And why should they be denied such sweeteners of their existence? It is surely very savage to refuse them every possible avenue to pleasure, reckoned too coarse for our own acceptance."
- Samuel Johnson
When someone objected to Johnson that if you gave money to beggars they might spend it on gin or tobacco, he replied, "And why should they be denied such sweeteners of their existence? It is surely very savage to refuse them every possible avenue to pleasure, reckoned too coarse for our own acceptance."
1
My only problem with this advice is that I meet the same panhandlers every single day on my way work. Do I give my money to them every day of the workweek like some type of tollbooth tax? I work as a secretary and take my lunch to work, make my coffee at home, and walk to work all to save the little money I earn. When I can, I'll donate clothes or food to shelters. I feel mean to not give, but what I really wish is our state/country to tax every citizen a Good Samaritan tax to help those in need of a permanent place to live rather than just those who pass them by on the street every day.
6
The Pope's message with regard to immigrants and refugees is not the moral equivalent of giving to panhandlers. It is the moral equivalent to letting those panhandlers live in your house. This is quite different, and the Pope has said no such thing.
Before I read a word of this story I did in fact have a preset fix in my thoughts. Often, when approached be panhandlers I look anywhere but at the person, yes, a nod of the head, I am that one.
At one time I would in fact give, peer pressure stopped me. "don't give them money they only use it for drugs", the other line was " give them food, buy them a sandwich". This article shamed me, I know better and I always have, yet...
I live in Florida, every major intersection is marked out by a panhandler.
They position themselves near our church, near malls etc. There are so many, as a child we were taught to stay clear of them, yet as a young man I often gave. My retired friends hardened my outlook, this refreshing article allowed me to regain a proper perspective.
5
Letting people in the country, or refusing entry to people based on 'merit' is another example of giving generously and freely, or not. We have received so much in this country as blessings. The attitude of 'we don't want to import poverty' is so against what we were given so freely and generously by others. Our history as a nation is one of not being afraid to welcome 'the tired, the poor, and the huddled masses.' Immigrants and refugees are emerging Americans. How may I help is the question, not how much can you give us in order to be accepted. We cannot continue down this angry, fearful track. We will end up being afraid of everyone including our well-established neighbors as well as the 'alien'. Pax, jb.
4
According to Nietzsche, all beggars should be killed or eliminated because they force you to make a decision, and you will feel bad either way. I suspect that he meant this to be sarcastic, and that he would probably have agreed with Pope Francis. The obligation or duty to help others, to be compassionate, is at the heart of many of our current disputes. I hear Trump supporters say "What do I care illegal aliens get no emergency medical care? What do I care if they are trying to flee war in Syria, starvation in Africa, or drug gangs in Guatemala?" I scratch my head and ask what country do I live in?
4
I do love the directive to make a non-verbal connection when you are giving. As a practical manner, some of us encounter this situation so often, it really is not in our budget to give to everyone. I think the Pope's advice to just give provides clarity for those who wrestle with the ideas that their gift is going to perpetuate their alcohol or drug abuse.
2
This Pope is one interesting guy and has changed my decades-long position on this matter. I always had the "don't enable" view but from now on I will carry an amount of cash to be given to whomever asks, or looks to be in need. I am not Catholic, I'm a Saganist (as in Carl), and I'm not wealthy, but as Francis correctly points out, that too is relative.
3
Only in organised religion would someone be criticised for "elevating compassion over doctrine". The ideas at the core of religion embody the best of humanity, but they are wrapped in layers of beaucracy and organisation that represent the very worst of humanity.
2
I am somewhat worried about the intrusion of an inevitable economic truth. If you want more of something, pay for it. Rather than vote with money for more panhandling, perhaps a dignified alternative could be supported: a guaranteed annual income to all. It will be expensive, but so is the feeble response to need that Pope Francis is endorsing.
1
As soon as the Vatican takes in several hundred asylees and starts to sell off its priceless art collection to feed them, I might listen to this huckster of the supernatural.
That is to say, never.
That is to say, never.
2
I am actually very afraid of the aggressive homeless population in SLC. It is well known that the majority are panhandling to buy drugs. I will buy or give people food and I give generously to Catholic Community Services. I cannot in good conscious give people money to buy drugs. This was my solution years ago to my thought of what would the Pope do.
As Spring arrives so will the swarms of homeless people from Phoenix and Vegas - arriving on buses with their new blankets and backpacks - to beg from all of the spring/summer convention crowds in downtown SLC. I wish that the company I work for would move out of the city center. If I did not work downtown I would never go there. SLC is no longer a safe, peaceful city because of the massive and aggressive homeless, drug addicted crowd.
As Spring arrives so will the swarms of homeless people from Phoenix and Vegas - arriving on buses with their new blankets and backpacks - to beg from all of the spring/summer convention crowds in downtown SLC. I wish that the company I work for would move out of the city center. If I did not work downtown I would never go there. SLC is no longer a safe, peaceful city because of the massive and aggressive homeless, drug addicted crowd.
1
Your wonderful editorial reminds me of my great-uncle, who was a Catholic priest in Los Angeles. He spent every Sunday handing out dollar bills on skid row, earning him the moniker "Father Dollar Bill". He would often share a blessing or a prayer, along with the money. He felt, as Pope Francis describes, that giving each person dignity was as important as the money. He did not have a security detail, despite carrying around $2000 in cash to give away each Sunday. He often told the story of a wealthy woman at a cocktail party, who was at least a little tipsy, asking him over her martini, "Aren't you afraid that they are just going to buy booze?" Of course, we don't know what the person on the street will do with the money we give them, but the important thing is to give. Yes, do give to charities that help the homeless, but giving an individual on the street a moment of humanity is important too. Yes, the problems in our society are much greater than a dollar bill given on the streets can solve, but the act of giving is still worthwhile. Thank you for this reminder!
4
People who deal with the problem of homelessness uniformly recommend giving to organization which are dedicated to solving the problem, not to the those panhandling directly. I take this over the Pope's words no matter how well intentioned they may be.
3
The Pope is absolutely right in his statements about giving to the poor. His message is appropriate and correct for Lent.
However, in his home city of Rome, as well as others around Italy and in parts of Europe, pandhandlers are parts of organized gangs whose job is to shake down well-intentioned citizens. This is not the same as being poor. I wish the Pope had framed his message a bit differently, to emphasize charity to the needy and not the beggers.
However, in his home city of Rome, as well as others around Italy and in parts of Europe, pandhandlers are parts of organized gangs whose job is to shake down well-intentioned citizens. This is not the same as being poor. I wish the Pope had framed his message a bit differently, to emphasize charity to the needy and not the beggers.
2
I must shake my head at the unnatural stature given perfectly ordinary moral advice, because it is uttered by a religious celebrity in white. The Pope is an educated man, as such he most likely doesn't actually believe in the supernatural dog & pony show he sells to the less educated billions of this world. I'd have a lot more respect for him if he took off the costume, preached reason, admitted the supernatural is a fraud, and then stood his decent & moral ground. That would be empowering and unassailable.
With these religious figures it's always two steps forward with some bit of common wisdom then just over two steps back with a retreat to medieval nonsense. Francis, you can do better!
With these religious figures it's always two steps forward with some bit of common wisdom then just over two steps back with a retreat to medieval nonsense. Francis, you can do better!
2
What a strange and, methinks, embittered atheist.
1
Your observation is projection, that says more about you than me. I note that attempting (and failing) to use "atheist" as a term of disparagement is rich, considering the low nature of belief in the supernatural from elves to ghosts to gods.
Further if one were to need a motive for bitterness, in say a novel, then 1500 years over which a society could not wrest itself from ignorance of magical thinking about sky daddies and human sacrifice would suffice nicely, methinks;)
Further if one were to need a motive for bitterness, in say a novel, then 1500 years over which a society could not wrest itself from ignorance of magical thinking about sky daddies and human sacrifice would suffice nicely, methinks;)
1
Pope Francis, of course, is not the real issue.
President Trump is.
And Trump's ideas are the ones catching on:
Barring immigration from terror-filled countries;
Helping low-income Americans to become successful;
And rebuilding the U.S. military to a level only seen at the end of WWII.
So I look forward to the day that Trump and the Pope meet --
And the smiles and hugs that will result.
President Trump is.
And Trump's ideas are the ones catching on:
Barring immigration from terror-filled countries;
Helping low-income Americans to become successful;
And rebuilding the U.S. military to a level only seen at the end of WWII.
So I look forward to the day that Trump and the Pope meet --
And the smiles and hugs that will result.
1
I agree with Pope about treating these folks with dignity. Where I live, however, many panhandlers I see in a daily basis are set up where you exit and enter freeways, making any human interaction impossible. I wonder if that is intentional on their part sometimes and it frustrates me. These folks are also thought to be heroin addicts, and I confess, being catholic, that I have difficulty with the Pope's glass of wine analogy when applied to heroin. I pray for guidance!
1
The Pope's advice resonates. I had the same advice from an Irish Christian Brother sixty years ago, only he mentioned stout and not wine. Those were different times and a very different place. Poverty was all around, and the explosion of materialism hadn't yet occurred. Now, the West is creaking under the weight of its goods and we are creaking under the weight of our perceived obligations to buy, to keep the economy rolling. I imagine Francis could be a good gardener, knowing that constant care and attention are needed to keep wild growth at bay. Western societies, on the other hand, don't know how food is produced. They don't know how good order is produced, and they have little idea what it takes to win and maintain a free and vibrant society.
1
Pope Francis offers down-to-earth advice, easy to follow, and not subject to convoluted interpretation. Why do folks get outraged based on the quality of the beggar, as if some aren't nearly pathetic enough to deserve the profits of begging? I try to give most times; some days I fall short and my mind snaps shut with a loud, internal NO. I hope I wasn't missing a chance to entertain angels unawares.
2
"elevating compassion over doctrine." What an extraordinary statement coming from a "religious" person. What does that statement say about the doctrine? Perhaps that Christ and all that he represented, like uh, for instance, "blessed are the poor" got lost in the shuffle along the way to embroidered silks and velvets, gold and bejeweled goblets. Think of what could be done with all of that splendor if Christ's doctrine of compassion were really practiced by those who make that complaint.
2
If governments around the world truly worked for all of the people and by the people ( not corporations ) then there would be absolutely no need for charity. Think about it.
Also, religious organizations should not be tax exempt. Especially as more and more take active political stances and radically right wing social ones.
Prey ( or pray ) on your own dime.
Also, religious organizations should not be tax exempt. Especially as more and more take active political stances and radically right wing social ones.
Prey ( or pray ) on your own dime.
1
Pope Francis' advice encourages a daily practice of compassion through charitable giving. Small acts, performed with kindness and gratefulness, send ripples of much needed good will into the world. Rational, careful, scrutiny is more appropriate and better served when choosing the non-profits to which we donate (and the politicians for whom we vote). I welcome this uplifting, simple reminder from the Pope on a cold March morning when the darkness of the daily news has me tied in knots. Thank you.
2
Pope Francis sees us all as sinners, loved by God. Failure or success in life is not a judgement, it is simply a reality. People are not lesser, or have less dignity in the eyes of God because they are poor, because they are sick, because they have mental health problems. Or even because they are feckless or lazy.
Pope Francis does not condemn the poor because he feels they somehow earned it, somehow deserve it, somehow let themselves be seen as lesser by God, which would therefore allow us, too, to see them as lesser.
It is the antithesis of our current bent of Libertarian Ayn Randian thinking. The Pope believes we are all our brother's keeper. It is more than marginally discomfiting, because most of us fail. Which, by the way, makes us sinners, but still loved and lovable in the eyes of God.
I prefer the Pope's philosophy.
Pope Francis does not condemn the poor because he feels they somehow earned it, somehow deserve it, somehow let themselves be seen as lesser by God, which would therefore allow us, too, to see them as lesser.
It is the antithesis of our current bent of Libertarian Ayn Randian thinking. The Pope believes we are all our brother's keeper. It is more than marginally discomfiting, because most of us fail. Which, by the way, makes us sinners, but still loved and lovable in the eyes of God.
I prefer the Pope's philosophy.
4
When I come to the city, which is infrequent because I am a farmer, I come with a wad of $1 bills in a convenient pocket. It is always good to be prepared! $1 in each beggars cup I pass, and perhaps a bit more in the pail beside the guitar player or 5-gallon pail drum player - because the buskers are giving me something of real value. Street musicians are among my most favorite people - the world would be a much better place with more street musicians!
But perhaps that is the wrong way to look at it. The beggar gives me something of value too, on a deeper level that enriches and enlightens, that makes me a better person. They give me my humanity, my better self, a chance to be blessed. Because they give the one thing they they have - in gratitude, they bless me. How many of my friends, who I would not hesitate to hand $1, ever do that? How many wealthy powerful people, who tax and bill me incessantly, ever lay a virtual hand on my head and say 'God bless you'? Even checks written to worthy charitable organizations are sterile, because it requires so little of me.
Giving to a beggar can be a sacrament, a moment of humility, a moment of gratitude, a moment of connection, a moment of naked nonjudgmental unselfishness, a moment of two equal pairs of eyes. A brief moment when I choose to be visible and significant to another.
Is that $1 to feed (or wine) me . . . or him?
It is funny - I ALWAYS feel better when I choose him.
But perhaps that is the wrong way to look at it. The beggar gives me something of value too, on a deeper level that enriches and enlightens, that makes me a better person. They give me my humanity, my better self, a chance to be blessed. Because they give the one thing they they have - in gratitude, they bless me. How many of my friends, who I would not hesitate to hand $1, ever do that? How many wealthy powerful people, who tax and bill me incessantly, ever lay a virtual hand on my head and say 'God bless you'? Even checks written to worthy charitable organizations are sterile, because it requires so little of me.
Giving to a beggar can be a sacrament, a moment of humility, a moment of gratitude, a moment of connection, a moment of naked nonjudgmental unselfishness, a moment of two equal pairs of eyes. A brief moment when I choose to be visible and significant to another.
Is that $1 to feed (or wine) me . . . or him?
It is funny - I ALWAYS feel better when I choose him.
25
@organic farmer: THANK YOU! I believe you've gotten to the heart of this issue with great clarity. Well said!
1
The Pope should be commenting only on religious questions and nothing else. Many people in NYC who are panhandlers are addicts, alcoholics, etc. If a person is truly desperate he/she will be glad to take food instead of money. I have pointed out churches, etc. where lunches are given and have been ignored, spit on etc. There are social programs and no one should be giving money to supply a person's habit.
Francis is clearly like one of the early Christians. In "Through the Eye of the Needle," the historian Peter Brown's brilliant study of the changing attitudes toward wealth during the early Roman Empire, it's clear the early Christians understood the poor and the outcast as a special category of human existence that spiritually haunted those of who are not poor,. More, they believed giving to the poor was the only way for those with any wealth at all to reach God. After all, Jesus had explicitly said that it's easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle [the small entry camels had to bend down and crawl through that was next to a city's gate] than for a rich man to get to heaven.
One of the most vigorous debates among these early Christians, then, devolved into whether getting to heaven required direct almsgiving, or whether giving indirectly, by supporting the many monasteries whose monks had deliberately chosen to be poor, reached God equally well.
My husband and I are not Christian, and in fact, are not religious at all. We do not see ourselves as trying to wangle anything from God; rather, out of some vague and unexamined sense of obligation that we simply must "give back" some of our (modest) wealth, we give regularly, with no discussion at all, to a rescue mission in LA and another here in NY.
What Francis drives home for me is that while what we do may be commendable, it's a far cry from what Christianity asks of Christians.
One of the most vigorous debates among these early Christians, then, devolved into whether getting to heaven required direct almsgiving, or whether giving indirectly, by supporting the many monasteries whose monks had deliberately chosen to be poor, reached God equally well.
My husband and I are not Christian, and in fact, are not religious at all. We do not see ourselves as trying to wangle anything from God; rather, out of some vague and unexamined sense of obligation that we simply must "give back" some of our (modest) wealth, we give regularly, with no discussion at all, to a rescue mission in LA and another here in NY.
What Francis drives home for me is that while what we do may be commendable, it's a far cry from what Christianity asks of Christians.
let him sell off some of the billions in wealth that the church owns....open the vatican gates, let the poor panhandle in his house. There will be plenty of people passing through.
I along with many many others take care of the poor in a variety of ways. The goal should be to educate and employ. With all the immigrants coming in, that problem becomes even more difficult. But just giving and never educating, very rarely works.
I along with many many others take care of the poor in a variety of ways. The goal should be to educate and employ. With all the immigrants coming in, that problem becomes even more difficult. But just giving and never educating, very rarely works.
2
"America is in the middle of a raging argument over poor outcasts. The president speaks of building walls and repelling foreigners."
This is not a correct statement. America, like the Catholic Church, is an organization founded on moral and ethical principles and the rule of law. Protecting those principles and enforcement of law is crucial to both organizations.
No one speaks of repelling foreigners. We speak of protecting ourselves from foreigners who would come under the guise of a refugee but mean to do us harm; wolves in sheeps clothing. They come from countries that don't have adequate screening capabilities. The proposed travel restrictions is a temporary measure until we can do what those countries can't.
We don't speak of outcasts. We speak of foreigners who have no respect for our culture and knowingly violate our laws.
The Catholic Church enforces their own unbending laws and rules with an iron fist. We deport, they excommunicate. And please note, the Pope gave that interview from behind the walls of the Vatican.
This is not a correct statement. America, like the Catholic Church, is an organization founded on moral and ethical principles and the rule of law. Protecting those principles and enforcement of law is crucial to both organizations.
No one speaks of repelling foreigners. We speak of protecting ourselves from foreigners who would come under the guise of a refugee but mean to do us harm; wolves in sheeps clothing. They come from countries that don't have adequate screening capabilities. The proposed travel restrictions is a temporary measure until we can do what those countries can't.
We don't speak of outcasts. We speak of foreigners who have no respect for our culture and knowingly violate our laws.
The Catholic Church enforces their own unbending laws and rules with an iron fist. We deport, they excommunicate. And please note, the Pope gave that interview from behind the walls of the Vatican.
2
I have always carried change in my pocket when in a city setting, so it's readily available if I'm asked. But several years ago in San Francisco, I learned another lesson---make the exact spare change, if requested.
My wife and I were across the street from Ben &Jerry's in Haight-Ashbury when a guy asked me for thirty seven cents. Not thinking, I gave him the change I had in my pocket, probably quite a bit more than thirty seven cents. As we walked away, he began berating me from behind, yelling that "I only wanted thirty seven cents. I have a job." This went on for several minutes for about a block, until I guess he got tired and gave up. It attracted a bit of attention however, and turned into a great little piece of street theater. It reminded not to question what someone else's motivation, or to judge their circumstances.
Maybe he'd been a bus driver.
My wife and I were across the street from Ben &Jerry's in Haight-Ashbury when a guy asked me for thirty seven cents. Not thinking, I gave him the change I had in my pocket, probably quite a bit more than thirty seven cents. As we walked away, he began berating me from behind, yelling that "I only wanted thirty seven cents. I have a job." This went on for several minutes for about a block, until I guess he got tired and gave up. It attracted a bit of attention however, and turned into a great little piece of street theater. It reminded not to question what someone else's motivation, or to judge their circumstances.
Maybe he'd been a bus driver.
1
I don't know what put that person on the street. I do know that even if they have a substance problem, I can't solve it for them. Only they can. In the mean time I can help ease their living conditions, so I give.
As a nation we have a pretty good idea about what works with the homeless and addicts, not a 100% success rate but pretty good. We also have the money to do this, nationwide. We, as a nation, have chosen to ignore this problem. We have decided that spending $ Billions on bombing the rubble of the Middle East is more important than helping our people here at home.
You and I did not put that person on the street, but we elected leaders (democratic and republican) who refuse to help our own people, who would rather give money to 6th century tribesmen who have been fighting each other for over 1,000 years, then solve problems here at home. We should be first, ashamed, and then angry.
As a nation we have a pretty good idea about what works with the homeless and addicts, not a 100% success rate but pretty good. We also have the money to do this, nationwide. We, as a nation, have chosen to ignore this problem. We have decided that spending $ Billions on bombing the rubble of the Middle East is more important than helping our people here at home.
You and I did not put that person on the street, but we elected leaders (democratic and republican) who refuse to help our own people, who would rather give money to 6th century tribesmen who have been fighting each other for over 1,000 years, then solve problems here at home. We should be first, ashamed, and then angry.
11
Many of the comments seem to take the whole thing a little bit too literally.
To give or not to give, to support charitable institutions instead, to perpetuate the problem, it is (or it's not) the government's responsibility... All legitimate questions, but for me what matters is what the pope says about looking these people in the eye, acknowledging their existence, their humanity.
If the politics, the ideological differences, the calcified truths we hold are a wall (sorry) that doesn't allow us to see the other person, then really all hope is lost. No one is suggesting that a couple of quarters will solve (or even alleviate) the problem. But making an effort to see human beings instead of an annoyance in your busy life is a good start.
To give or not to give, to support charitable institutions instead, to perpetuate the problem, it is (or it's not) the government's responsibility... All legitimate questions, but for me what matters is what the pope says about looking these people in the eye, acknowledging their existence, their humanity.
If the politics, the ideological differences, the calcified truths we hold are a wall (sorry) that doesn't allow us to see the other person, then really all hope is lost. No one is suggesting that a couple of quarters will solve (or even alleviate) the problem. But making an effort to see human beings instead of an annoyance in your busy life is a good start.
5
The Pope is wrong on this one. Giving money to panhandlers is a safety issue for the homeless person too (ie they could be hit by a car if they are holding a sign at a busy intersection). Cities that allow panhandling also hurt the income and tips of minimum wage workers who suffer when tourists feel uncomfortable in an area. Better to tip generously to bell hops, valets, food workers, etc. I agree with seeing the dignity in every homeless person and I volunteer in a homeless shelter (where we sit and eat meals with the homeless to converse), but this is not incongruent with not giving money to panhandlers.
3
I always find myself struggling between practicing my faith while understanding complex adaptive systems. The Pope's guidance seems to focus on the mindset of the giver without regard for the welfare of the receiver. That glass of wine may be the only source of worldly happiness for the receiver, but it may also reinforce the receiver's poverty. Don't the faithful have a responsibility to give in a manner that solves problems? Teach a man to fish...
No, because we are not God. Nowhere in the Bible does it say that we are to see ourselves as obligated to hold others accountable to God. The Prodigal Son was welcomed with open arms and the finest clothes and food, not castigated for being foolish and spending his inheritance on vices.
1
I don't understand the comments of those who seem to believe that it is wrong to give money to an individual because there are agencies which better use the money or that giving money to an individual will increase the problem of hunger and/or homelessness. The "safety net" has been cut almost to shreds in the past few decades and the charitable agencies are stretched to their limit which means that it is not easy for a person to get help even for hunger never mind help to actually improve the situation.
No one loses if one makes a choice is based on compassion. Does it really matter if one is fortunate enough to be able to afford to give away $5.00 and the receiver spends it foolishly? Even if one gives to a person running a scam it doesn't take away the compassionate intent of the giver and after all we all spend many $5.00 bills each day on companies which are run by millionaires scamming all of us. I would much rather live a life knowing that a small $5.00 bill given to someone in wretched circumstances may put soup in their stomach on a cold day then to live with a heart so cold that I actually have the stomach to judge or disdain the same person.
No one loses if one makes a choice is based on compassion. Does it really matter if one is fortunate enough to be able to afford to give away $5.00 and the receiver spends it foolishly? Even if one gives to a person running a scam it doesn't take away the compassionate intent of the giver and after all we all spend many $5.00 bills each day on companies which are run by millionaires scamming all of us. I would much rather live a life knowing that a small $5.00 bill given to someone in wretched circumstances may put soup in their stomach on a cold day then to live with a heart so cold that I actually have the stomach to judge or disdain the same person.
14
Many of the Homeless have mental illness. Yes, they may receive disability benefits; however, that goes fast when living on the streets. Panhandling gives them a little more money. I have been told by homeless people that the humiliation of panhandling is extreme, but they have to do it. Sometimes it is for little extras. Sometimes it is for things we don't approve of; however, for them it may be a comfort or a pleasure item. Often they will use the money to go into a cinema for the day just to get a rest from the cold. Homelessness is a hard life spent waiting in long lines for food and long lines for hours to get a shelter bed. When the shelter is full they are housed on floors of shelter lobbies or left on their own to survive on the street all night.
5
I prefer to give to the homeless altho they can become very annoying -- than to the countless "charities"/beggars that send me multiple pieces of paper to "recycle" if I chance to write them a check. Sometimes I put some change in my pocket for that purpose. That said the salaries (good paying jobs) at all of the various institutions that solicit funds are often excessive -- yes presidents of this and that institution (I always wonder what part of their salary they donate to the charity they are in charge of?? Only the part that's tax-deductible?)
How can one truly make a difference in the life of the functionally poor -- are they hirable to clean your house, etc.?? Guess what -- the answer is maybe not. BTW I now refuse to give unrestricted gifts to various institutions. I am happy to pay for a new scanner for the library or a specific book but NOT for their fund raising effort, for all of that paper I am throwing away.
How can one truly make a difference in the life of the functionally poor -- are they hirable to clean your house, etc.?? Guess what -- the answer is maybe not. BTW I now refuse to give unrestricted gifts to various institutions. I am happy to pay for a new scanner for the library or a specific book but NOT for their fund raising effort, for all of that paper I am throwing away.
45
On the contrary, salaries at non-profit agencies are very low. (Though, some directors of the larger ones do rather swim in the biggish bucks.)
I've worked at many -- over many years -- and know what most of us earn (public knowledge, by the way.)
And many recipients of our monies are not capable of cleaning your house, friend. And for that you'd deny them a pittance? Shame on you.
I've worked at many -- over many years -- and know what most of us earn (public knowledge, by the way.)
And many recipients of our monies are not capable of cleaning your house, friend. And for that you'd deny them a pittance? Shame on you.
1
As the President of the United States rolls back protections designed to keep clean the air we breathe and keep our waters unfouled, I can at least follow this prescription and do something pure of heart. This can serve as a personal counterpoint to the madness and inhumanity swirling about me. Thank you, Francis, for giving me a touchstone of compassion can act on tangibly reaching out to those who live on the very streets I walk every day.
187
If only you could comprehend how little I care about what the Pope thinks.
20
Doc.... 'The Pope' is also a human being who obviously cares quite a bit about humanity.
Your categorical dismissal of him is quite telling.
Your categorical dismissal of him is quite telling.
158
I also could care less what the Pope thinks. I don't need him to tell me what I viscerally knew the first time I encountered a homeless person--give them money and be as generous as you can. And it is none of my business what the recipient does with the money. And, yes,I know that many panhandlers are pros taking advantage of the plight of the real homeless and my good will. It is just like voting: you have to vote in every election to elect a few honest candidates in a lifetime.
1
Look, we get it. You're "evolved." But someone has to be the voice of humanity in this world! Don't sneer at the little good we have going for us.
10
In Phoenix, we recently had a senator propose legislation to charge individuals with a petty offense to come within 10 feet of cars at stoplights to panhandle. Fortunately it was voted down, but the proposition portrays a powerful message of our desire to dismiss any discomfort we may have when facing a difficult dilemma. To shield our eyes from the suffering of others breaks our ability to connect with the stranger and to show compassion to the underserved. I cannot be more happy that people of the Christian faith have such a passionate leader in Pope Francis.
10
As always Pope Francis cuts to the heart of the matter. I was particularly touched by his admonition to treat the "beggar" with dignity, to look him or her in the eye and touch him/her.
I was forced for a period of time to secure food from a church pantry. The minister made a point of coming around to each person, shaking his hand, looking him in the eye, saying something. He and the church volunteers really tried to treat the recipients with dignity. Sometimes it felt a little condescending, but mostly it didn't. I learned a lot from that experience.
I was forced for a period of time to secure food from a church pantry. The minister made a point of coming around to each person, shaking his hand, looking him in the eye, saying something. He and the church volunteers really tried to treat the recipients with dignity. Sometimes it felt a little condescending, but mostly it didn't. I learned a lot from that experience.
33
Pope Francis got to me. My conscience has been harpooned by his contention that I must recognize I am the “luckier” one. Why should the responsibility to help be pushed onto someone else? Why should I fret about how my gift might be used?
I have a cherished blanket policy that is crumbling before his challenge: I serve on boards, donate to organizations that help the homeless in wise, well organized ways. The goal is to improve the system. That is my justification for walking by. I’m giving differently, efficiently.
But Francis insists that the way of giving is as important as the gift. I should not simply drop a bill into a cup and walk away. I must stop, look the person in the eyes, and touch his or her hands. The reason is to make contact, to preserve dignity, to see another person not as a pathology or a social condition, but as a human with a life whose value is equal to my own. My blanket policy is efficient and impersonal. And leaves out something that’s so very important.
I have a cherished blanket policy that is crumbling before his challenge: I serve on boards, donate to organizations that help the homeless in wise, well organized ways. The goal is to improve the system. That is my justification for walking by. I’m giving differently, efficiently.
But Francis insists that the way of giving is as important as the gift. I should not simply drop a bill into a cup and walk away. I must stop, look the person in the eyes, and touch his or her hands. The reason is to make contact, to preserve dignity, to see another person not as a pathology or a social condition, but as a human with a life whose value is equal to my own. My blanket policy is efficient and impersonal. And leaves out something that’s so very important.
44
Thank you for reminding us that there is no such thing as an 'Unequal Life'.
When I was in Lutheran seminary in south side Chicago, a couple with a darling two-year-old began making the rounds of the seminary apartments begging for food. Needless to say, they hit pay dirt - we were over achievers in wanting to give to them. That is until a young first-year student let them into her apartment. While she went looking for food to give them, they stole her purse that contained her wallet. As a result, there was much weeping and gnashing of teeth. But, ultimately, there was concurrence that we had done the right thing - we were called to give without regard as to whether the recipient was sufficiently deserving or not. This Lutheran pastor believes the Pope is absolutely correct in this regard.
14
My rule: I never give money but I will give food, either directly (if I have food on me) or I will buy food for the person. It's interesting because on the one hand, I've had people take me up and be happy about it and on the other, I've had people refuse help, sometimes citing food preferences, allergies, etc. For the latter, I always makes me wonder what they expect instead.
For money, I donate it instead to local organizations I trust that deal with homelessness, the poor, etc. Some excellent organizations can do more with a dollar than my giving a dollar to an individual.
For money, I donate it instead to local organizations I trust that deal with homelessness, the poor, etc. Some excellent organizations can do more with a dollar than my giving a dollar to an individual.
9
My wife gives all the time, and lot more than a dollar. She gave $30 when she had only $100 in the bank. She has served in soup kitchens, shelters, etc.
Charity and philanthropy are not adequate to help the homeless and those who are very poor. You need to tax people enough, especially the rich, so money can be spent on programs that prevent homelessness, or get homeless people out of the street into warm safe shelters for the long term...with social rehabilitation programs, or treatments when necessary.
My wife was stunned when she interviewed homeless people how many of them once had a home, a job, a family and a dignified life...but ended up on the streets because of: 1) Ill health or an accident that ruined their finances due to high medical costs, that led to debt, foreclosures, evictions, divorce, family separations, etc. 2) Drug and alcohol use that went out of control, and led to families falling apart. And without helpful interventions these people ended up sleeping on sofas of their friends' and relatives' homes...and then slowly ended up on the street. 3) Domestic violence that led some young people and women to flee, but with over crowded and under funded shelters they ended up on the street 4) Poorly run shelters that have sick people who urinate and defecate on their beds without anyone caring, rat and cockroach infected rooms, mentally unwell bed mates who sing all night, or get abusive...And so many other sad reasons that could happen to any one of us.
Charity and philanthropy are not adequate to help the homeless and those who are very poor. You need to tax people enough, especially the rich, so money can be spent on programs that prevent homelessness, or get homeless people out of the street into warm safe shelters for the long term...with social rehabilitation programs, or treatments when necessary.
My wife was stunned when she interviewed homeless people how many of them once had a home, a job, a family and a dignified life...but ended up on the streets because of: 1) Ill health or an accident that ruined their finances due to high medical costs, that led to debt, foreclosures, evictions, divorce, family separations, etc. 2) Drug and alcohol use that went out of control, and led to families falling apart. And without helpful interventions these people ended up sleeping on sofas of their friends' and relatives' homes...and then slowly ended up on the street. 3) Domestic violence that led some young people and women to flee, but with over crowded and under funded shelters they ended up on the street 4) Poorly run shelters that have sick people who urinate and defecate on their beds without anyone caring, rat and cockroach infected rooms, mentally unwell bed mates who sing all night, or get abusive...And so many other sad reasons that could happen to any one of us.
56
I prefer to give my money to organizations that provide services to the homeless, rather than giving directly to people who will likely spend the money not on a "glass of wine" but on drugs or hard alcohol, further perpetuating their self-destruction. Also, I have encountered homeless people who are deranged, hostile and potentially dangerous, so I don't advice more interaction than is necessary.
8
A "deranged, hostile, potentially dangerous" mentally ill person of privilege afforded medical treatment in state of the art facility receives deference, kindness.
1
Finally, a Pope who is a Christian in the sense where this means "being like Jesus." A person who probably asks himself a version of the "What would Jesus do?" question every time he encounters a significant decision.
Truly a breath of fresh air given the Catholic Church's recently exposed history, especially here in Australia.
I have encountered many people in my life who, although not affiliated with any particular religion or denomination, are nonetheless Christians under this definition. I have not observed that they belong to any particular racial, ethnic, or cultural group. I wish there were more of them, I wish I could be as strong as them.
Truly a breath of fresh air given the Catholic Church's recently exposed history, especially here in Australia.
I have encountered many people in my life who, although not affiliated with any particular religion or denomination, are nonetheless Christians under this definition. I have not observed that they belong to any particular racial, ethnic, or cultural group. I wish there were more of them, I wish I could be as strong as them.
13
How far we have come from LBJ's War on Poverty.
Although the U.S. has about the lowest supports for the poor of all wealthy democracies, the Republicans seek the annihilation of the poor, not poverty.
Thank God for Pope Francis at a time when even the Democrats are more vicious to the poor than European conservatives. The Christian right has no relation to Christ's mission of comfort to the poor and affliction for the rich.
Although the U.S. has about the lowest supports for the poor of all wealthy democracies, the Republicans seek the annihilation of the poor, not poverty.
Thank God for Pope Francis at a time when even the Democrats are more vicious to the poor than European conservatives. The Christian right has no relation to Christ's mission of comfort to the poor and affliction for the rich.
20
LBJ, wasn't he the president who leveraged civil rights to conscript minorities for the deaths dismemberment in Vietnam?
We are always told by conservatives and so-called libertarians that government assistance is not the answer: we should leave it to the individual to be generous - or not.
Pope Francis shows how private compassion really should look and work. It enhances the humanity of the giver and the recipient. It does not judge.
Of course, the selfish will always be with us. And so will the hypocrites who support government assistance to billionaires and corporate welfare, subsidies to the affluent, socialism for the rich, like the ludicrous tax loophole Trump used that let him avoid paying taxes because he failed so "bigly."
Thank you, Pope Francis, for once more showing us how to be the people we must become.
Pope Francis shows how private compassion really should look and work. It enhances the humanity of the giver and the recipient. It does not judge.
Of course, the selfish will always be with us. And so will the hypocrites who support government assistance to billionaires and corporate welfare, subsidies to the affluent, socialism for the rich, like the ludicrous tax loophole Trump used that let him avoid paying taxes because he failed so "bigly."
Thank you, Pope Francis, for once more showing us how to be the people we must become.
21
Pope Francis wishes to remind the world about the "human dignity" of street beggars. How about reminding the world -- and himself while he is at it -- about the human dignity of workers? Those people who go out every day and work for a living. So many workers are treated with contempt - especially those in our service industries. Instead of giving to the panhandler on the street -- consider giving a generous tip to the people who serve coffee or your meals. Maybe putting more money in the tip cup and less money to the drug cartels. Insist in all public forums - including the voting booth - that employers must pay a liveable wage! And that it is the sacred duty of governments to enforce the rights and acknowledge the dignity of all workers - from the highly trained professional to the store clerk - to protect their rights to a living, just wage and working conditions. For a change, acknowledge the cashier or clerk or service person on the phone or computer as a fellow human being. That is what is so wrong with this Pope - his priorities - he should speak up for the workers before advocating for panhandlers -- the same thing goes for the Editorial Board of the New York Times.
13
I don't think the Pope was putting panhandlers over workers. I think he is asking us to love our fellow man/woman and really see them instead of just spouting platitudes. If we don't really see people and acknowledge them as fellow humans, we don't give them the dignity the deserve.
1
I suggest that the Catholic Church should be the first one to give to all those in need before asking everybody else to simply give without even thinking. I also have two different but related events to the Pope's advice: in Romania, and many Eastern Bloc countries, the Catholic Church was the first one to ask for the return of many properties, many of them having a very unclear past owner and now inhabited by poor, old or very average people. Also, the Church could get involved in the training and education of large disadvantaged communities like the Gypsies who for whatever reasons are often organized in large enterprises of beggars and whose leaders are scandalously wealthy.
15
I am sorry but I think both the Pope and the Editorial Board have this one sadly very wrong.
Giving money or food to a pan-handler is pseudo-compassion. It makes the giver feel good but does nothing to address the problems that led the panhandler to be homeless and hungry. True compassion would be to stop, listen to their story and truly help them. And don’t stop helping until they are back on their feet.
In his 1987 encyclical, Sollicitudo Rei Socialis, John Paul II described the principle of solidarity. As expressed by him, solidarity “is not a feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of so many people, both near and far. On the contrary, it is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good; that is to say to the good of all and of each individual, because we are all really responsible for all.”
"For everyone to whom much is given, of him shall much be required." -- Luke 12:48. Much is required. Not a feel good drop in their bucket.
Giving money or food to a pan-handler is pseudo-compassion. It makes the giver feel good but does nothing to address the problems that led the panhandler to be homeless and hungry. True compassion would be to stop, listen to their story and truly help them. And don’t stop helping until they are back on their feet.
In his 1987 encyclical, Sollicitudo Rei Socialis, John Paul II described the principle of solidarity. As expressed by him, solidarity “is not a feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of so many people, both near and far. On the contrary, it is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good; that is to say to the good of all and of each individual, because we are all really responsible for all.”
"For everyone to whom much is given, of him shall much be required." -- Luke 12:48. Much is required. Not a feel good drop in their bucket.
16
Every so often, city fathers and mothers (irony, I'm afraid) cite the scourge of homeless castaways polluting our fair cities and, further citing their marvelous system of caring for them, strongly recommend we do not place actual money into their hands. Many of us nod, adding that we "know" what the ignorant poor will do with that money: spend it on drugs or alcohol.
The pope is simply revisiting the Christian mandate to feed the poor. For 2,000 years mayors and city councilpersons have been unable to stop the flow of cash from the pockets of pedestrians to the dirty outstretched hands of the "less fortunate."
I someone spotted me a $20, I might not spend it wisely either. Thanks for the surprising, compassionate editorial. Much needed.
The pope is simply revisiting the Christian mandate to feed the poor. For 2,000 years mayors and city councilpersons have been unable to stop the flow of cash from the pockets of pedestrians to the dirty outstretched hands of the "less fortunate."
I someone spotted me a $20, I might not spend it wisely either. Thanks for the surprising, compassionate editorial. Much needed.
25
This statement of policy is wrong. All members of our society deserve food, shelter, health care, a free education, a job if they want one, respect, and the oppprtunity to pursue happiness. Piecemeal treatment of these fundamental components of human dignity with random trivial monetary contributions erodes the overwhelming need to maintain Federal programs that ensure these essentials. Giving a dollar to a street person creates a false sense of righteousness in the act and detracts from the more urgent need to direct our energies and funds towards providing human dignity for all through voting in a government that consistently and effectively actualizes these basic tenets.
13
Well said, Rick G. Exactly right.
1
I prefer to give to food pantries and other legitimate charities where there is some oversight. I've read that many, certainly not all, panhandlers are actually part/victims of criminal enterprise. Vans drop them off and pick them up. I've personally seen similar looking panhandlers block after block, with similar signs, often with very young children attending (whose children?), moving on when confronted with City Social Services. I believe giving in these circumstances is just enabling the enterprise. It's not a question of a questionable individual; in these cases I think it's organized crime.
8
And I've read that buses of illegal voters went to New Hampshire from Massachusetts to swing the vote.
The Pope is saying, "are you more blessed than the person in front of you? If you are, share."
The loose change or dollar you or I give that person isn't going to be enough to solve any of his/her problems; that will take a job, some professional intervention, or a house. Why begrudge them their decision to buy a nip?
If I, or you, find ourselves stuck in their situation, that may well be my, or your decision too.
But by all means, also donate to the Food Bank, the shelter, and support our politicians who create programs to provide the housing, the jobs and the professional intervention.
The Pope is saying, "are you more blessed than the person in front of you? If you are, share."
The loose change or dollar you or I give that person isn't going to be enough to solve any of his/her problems; that will take a job, some professional intervention, or a house. Why begrudge them their decision to buy a nip?
If I, or you, find ourselves stuck in their situation, that may well be my, or your decision too.
But by all means, also donate to the Food Bank, the shelter, and support our politicians who create programs to provide the housing, the jobs and the professional intervention.
1
Beggars ask for pennies with a grace and dignity missing from the wealthy. The One Percent never ask with outstretched hand or grateful posture, but use monetary policy to reach into handbags or the inner pockets of suits, snatching hard earned dollars like pickpockets. Unsatisfied, some purchase the weak minds of politicians ready bow to the power of money over morality. Too many of the One Percent have a poor understanding of science and religion and care little for morality or truth. The panhandler denies nothing and makes no claim of superiority. The Pope understands this distinction, the superior morality of the poor, but will his followers, especially his senior clergy, in places like New York and Washington DC? In Ohio and Wisconsin? In Florida and Tennessee? Will they provide moral counsel to those who create poverty and panhandling?
25
I offer a differing perspective as one who lived in rescue missions and mental hospitals for years. Don't give as it may shorten the life of the sufferer.
It may sooth the soul of the giver, but often alms just go to supporting a drug habit, or subsidize a life that involves living under a cardboard box under a bridge. Living rough like that is terribly harmful, and takes many years off a person's life.
No, all in all, it is better to send what one can give to agencies that offer shelter and food, and try to get people off the street and our of the weather.
I lived on the street in San Francisco in the Mid-70's, and that was the only climate that made living rough doable. These days, it would probably be the only way I could afford to live in that crazy city of billionaires.
Hugh Massengill, Eugene Oregon
It may sooth the soul of the giver, but often alms just go to supporting a drug habit, or subsidize a life that involves living under a cardboard box under a bridge. Living rough like that is terribly harmful, and takes many years off a person's life.
No, all in all, it is better to send what one can give to agencies that offer shelter and food, and try to get people off the street and our of the weather.
I lived on the street in San Francisco in the Mid-70's, and that was the only climate that made living rough doable. These days, it would probably be the only way I could afford to live in that crazy city of billionaires.
Hugh Massengill, Eugene Oregon
46
Thank you for your perspective.
Government spending (and control) is no more The answer than individual giving.
Has Francis ever encountered the stoplight beggars we recognize because they seem to have rotating assignments, apparently part of an organized effort not unlike prostitution where others (like pimps) get the take? Or the windshield-washing youths who strike out at those who don't pay? Or, outside of our privileged U.S., the children who are maimed so they are more "pitiable"?
True charity is in truly connecting, yes. Make your difference That is, making a difference not blindly giving solely because someone claims they need it. Give to organizations that make that happen.
Has Francis ever encountered the stoplight beggars we recognize because they seem to have rotating assignments, apparently part of an organized effort not unlike prostitution where others (like pimps) get the take? Or the windshield-washing youths who strike out at those who don't pay? Or, outside of our privileged U.S., the children who are maimed so they are more "pitiable"?
True charity is in truly connecting, yes. Make your difference That is, making a difference not blindly giving solely because someone claims they need it. Give to organizations that make that happen.
8
I like the Pope's spirit, especially the encouragement towards cheerful, compassionate giving. It has sometimes seemed to me that I was on the side of the angels in refusing alms since the energy ought to go toward self-reliance. That stance left me with a residue of unpleasant feeling. Some of that was willing not to be made a fool of. Perhaps it is worthwhile to be a fool for love.
47
If a person is reduced to being homeless, self-reliance has already been tried and found wanting. In a perfectly just society with good mental health services and a level economic playing field -in that fantasy world - it makes sense to talk about self-reliance. Not in this country, especially not right now.
2
Better to give money to aid agencies that provide services for the poor and others needing help. In many cases there is only one thing that predictably happens when you give money on the street - the same individual returns to the same place and time the next day. A condition of dependency is repeated over and over. Surely it is better if someone has an incentive to move forward with their own life.
Still, I do ocasdionally give money in exceptional cases where the indidual is in distress or confused.
Still, I do ocasdionally give money in exceptional cases where the indidual is in distress or confused.
19
Math.com defines a billion dollars as 1,000 million dollars or a one followed by nine zeros: $1,000,000,000. It would take 10 million $100 bills to total $1 billion in cash.
Can you possibly imagine that the Presidents Cabinet alone could alleviate
this countries poverty?
They would not even the notice that 1% of the 1% massive money holdings was missing!
The majority of members of Congress are millionaires — 271 of the 533 members currently in office, or 50.8 percent.Jan 12, 2015
When the people that control the country spend so much time on a
priority of accumulating money how could the country possibly benefit?
I do regret the Pope did not grant Bernie Sanders an audience, a man
that has given his life to standing for the less fortunate.
Such humility has nothing to do with politics.
Can you possibly imagine that the Presidents Cabinet alone could alleviate
this countries poverty?
They would not even the notice that 1% of the 1% massive money holdings was missing!
The majority of members of Congress are millionaires — 271 of the 533 members currently in office, or 50.8 percent.Jan 12, 2015
When the people that control the country spend so much time on a
priority of accumulating money how could the country possibly benefit?
I do regret the Pope did not grant Bernie Sanders an audience, a man
that has given his life to standing for the less fortunate.
Such humility has nothing to do with politics.
44
S. Whether -
Nice math but you do know eventually you will run out of other people's money to spend, right?
This is, however, a fairly typical liberal attitude. If someone is hungry, give them food - problem solved. If someone is homeless, give them a house - problem solved. If someone is poor, give them money - problem solved.
I don't know much about Montana's economy (I do know it is one of the most beautiful places on earth), but here in NYC we have three and four generations of people living off welfare benefits, social security and food stamps in "temporary section 8 emergency housing." I'm not sure about the bible either - perhaps right after the "do unto others" thing there's something about throwing good money after bad.
Again, I don't know about beggars in MT, but I see them in NY every day. I'm not convinced all of them are completely honest.
That said, why are you asking the American tax payer to fund the Pope's charity? Can't the Pope could put his money where his mouth is?
What do you think St Patrick's Cathedral is worth? That's prime NY real estate in midtown Manhattan. Saks Fifth Avenue right next door is smaller and was recently valued at over $4 billion. St Pats has to be worth more than that, right?
Maybe Francis could sell St Pats - problem solved.
Nice math but you do know eventually you will run out of other people's money to spend, right?
This is, however, a fairly typical liberal attitude. If someone is hungry, give them food - problem solved. If someone is homeless, give them a house - problem solved. If someone is poor, give them money - problem solved.
I don't know much about Montana's economy (I do know it is one of the most beautiful places on earth), but here in NYC we have three and four generations of people living off welfare benefits, social security and food stamps in "temporary section 8 emergency housing." I'm not sure about the bible either - perhaps right after the "do unto others" thing there's something about throwing good money after bad.
Again, I don't know about beggars in MT, but I see them in NY every day. I'm not convinced all of them are completely honest.
That said, why are you asking the American tax payer to fund the Pope's charity? Can't the Pope could put his money where his mouth is?
What do you think St Patrick's Cathedral is worth? That's prime NY real estate in midtown Manhattan. Saks Fifth Avenue right next door is smaller and was recently valued at over $4 billion. St Pats has to be worth more than that, right?
Maybe Francis could sell St Pats - problem solved.
1
Bernie did meet with the Pope.
This pope seems to take kindness as his primary motivation, which is a relief. But giving money to drug-addled subway panhandlers is more about the giver's sense of self than taking a best course of action. Kindness, giving, is a good opening position, but random acts alone perpetuate the problem. There are numerous organizations providing services to those in difficulty. Action, not reaction--not as easy, but much more productive.
36
I respectfully disagree. Treat others as you wish to be treated. If you treat yourself to sweets, wine, cocktails, etc. with that money, why get on a high horse abt how others will treat themselves with that money?
1
Bill Clinton would say "I can feel your pain," all the while he was pushing policies that were designed to intensify people's pain. The Times fixation on power, money, celebrity and greed is only minimally offset by their resistance to the extreme manifestations of that by the Trump presidency. To give to a person suffering in the street ( a good in its own right) ideally also means beginning to giving up one's attachment to systems of oppression that help create that suffering.
50
Over twenty million people moved out of poverty into the middle class during Clinton's presidency - a record number. Yes he put limits on the amount of time able-bodied adults could stay on welfare but he also changed the rules so the working poor would not lose their health care. They also had much better access to job training, help with child care, etc. the money came from higher taxes on the wealthy. At the time I remember people on the left saying it was disrespectful to insist that people who were able to should find jobs.
1
Outstanding comment, few will recognize its importance.
1
You have to go all the way back to Bill Clinton? How about an entire party that preaches compassion while planning to pull the rug out from Grandma and a child with disabilities?
1
"Never judge," my grandfather taught his young daughter- my mother- as they walked the streets of Manhattan during the Depression all those years ago.
" You see that gentleman over there?" He'd ask her-not much older than 5 or 6. "You have no idea who or why he is sleeping on the street."
Years later, much later, my mother would recount the above to me.
In doing so, she passed on her beloved father's lesson to her daughter- me.
That not only must we have compassion, we must also preserve the other's dignity even as we give. And be ever thankful that we are not in such dire circumstances - at the mercy of another-for such basic necessities.
It's a powerful but simple lesson and one that must be shown through example to our children.
I taught this to my own children; now my granddaughter- not quite 4- is also learning this as well.
Yes, give. From your wallet but most of all- from your heart.
Pope Francis has it exactly right.
" You see that gentleman over there?" He'd ask her-not much older than 5 or 6. "You have no idea who or why he is sleeping on the street."
Years later, much later, my mother would recount the above to me.
In doing so, she passed on her beloved father's lesson to her daughter- me.
That not only must we have compassion, we must also preserve the other's dignity even as we give. And be ever thankful that we are not in such dire circumstances - at the mercy of another-for such basic necessities.
It's a powerful but simple lesson and one that must be shown through example to our children.
I taught this to my own children; now my granddaughter- not quite 4- is also learning this as well.
Yes, give. From your wallet but most of all- from your heart.
Pope Francis has it exactly right.
239
Maybe it is a legacy of the Depression. My parents were both born to immigrant parents during the Depression. They set the same example for me and my siblings. They never talked about anyone behind their back and they never judged others, as far as I could tell..
1
Every person in need, needs to be helped once they share our planet. That is part of being prolife and compassionate but when there is uncontrolled population growth, nations and governments fail miserably in some cases and there is desperation and poverty that leads to migration and a state of flux and instability. God will provide has been the mantra of some religious leaders who have failed miserably to promote responsible family size based on an ability to provide, that will ensure that nations and its people can provide tender loving care, food, shelter, clothing, basic education medical care etc for a reasonable number of people the way it happens in Nordic and European countries, Canada, USA, Japan, China, South Korea etc. Compare that with countries where the religious leaders opposed contraception among its congregation to control population or physical barriers to control transmission of deadly infections. Imagine if our Southern neighbor was like our Northern neighbor and had just the same level of controlled population growth as it can support there would never have been such a desperation by millions to get the hell out of there and be so resistant to being sent back. Imagine then if there was a presidential candidate who came with a "mad idea" to build a wall to prevent responsible people of a neighboring country crossing over into the land of liberty and opportunity in such large numbers. That presidential candidate would have had a 0 chance of becoming POTUS.
1
I prefer to give to organizations here in Chicago which help the homeless and hungry. When I go downtown, I can be asked literally dozens of times for money just walking around. Rather than hand out a dollar here and there I simply don't approach it this way (though on occasion - I once gave $40 dollars - all I had on me - to a mother begging on a bitterly cold evening). I agree that we should help, but how to be most effective is also a question.
23
The Pope is right. Giving money directly to the homeless is the fastest way to alleviate suffering. Giving money to organizations that help the homeless may not in fact do anything for individual homeless people. Many hopeless are so afraid of rape or exploitation at shelters that they won't even go to them. Many shelter staff take donations, and the homeless never see them. These staff feel it is their "right" since they are often poorly compensated for what they do.
That said, male panhandlers make a lot more money from random charity than female panhandlers do. If you are going to give money on the street, make sure you also give to females. As someone who was homeless (and female) I know this firsthand.
If you want to really help individual homeless people, consider giving 20.00 gift cards to a general store like Target, and insist that the shelter you give them to has each homeless resident sign off on having received them. This will minimize the chances of the money being spent on alcohol or drugs, and still allow each homeless person some choice to buy what he or she needs most.
That said, male panhandlers make a lot more money from random charity than female panhandlers do. If you are going to give money on the street, make sure you also give to females. As someone who was homeless (and female) I know this firsthand.
If you want to really help individual homeless people, consider giving 20.00 gift cards to a general store like Target, and insist that the shelter you give them to has each homeless resident sign off on having received them. This will minimize the chances of the money being spent on alcohol or drugs, and still allow each homeless person some choice to buy what he or she needs most.
1
Wasn't it Walt Whitman who said always give alms to anyone who asks?
Good plan.
Good plan.
34
Yeah, Jesus said much earlier.
12
I believe that was Jesus, at least he said it first. Matthew 5.42.
Dear Pope Francis, Thank you for being such a wonderful teacher. Please come visit NY again because we need your compassion and grace to inspire us now.
106
Here, and I thought, all the New York Times likes to do is trash our Catholic Brother's and Sister's! The Pope's advice is a mitvah, and so is the Times praise!
40
Yes, this is the Jewish ethical perspective as well!
thank you! NYT seems to think sometimes, Christians are either right-wing evangelicals or Catholics up to nostrils in Vatican intrigue. This is a hopeful sign for increased and improved dialogue. Pax, jb
2
Agree one thousand percent. I always give at least a couple of dollars. I don't miss it, and who am I to judge what it's used for. Carry one dollar bills in a pocket or separate compartment. Do it, while we are still allowed to do so.
87
Every human being is a living soul and at that level, we are all equal.
35
He is right. That is all.
51
Wonderful. Perhaps he will sell the church's art and real estate holdings to help the poor? What? No?
69
The churches art is available to be viewed by the public. If it is sold to a billionaire it gets put in a private mansion, on a private yacht or in a warehouse in Europe where it is stored until it is resold to another billionaire. Likewise, the Church's real estate holdings are also largely open to the public for worship, as parkland, etc. . Are you also one of those who wants the US public lands sold off so they can be marked no trespassing rather than be used by the general public? As to raising the money, Chicago sold off the parking meters to a private company and rather than have a continuous stream of income, they got a one shot deal and everyone in Chicago is paying twice as much for parking!
2
Look at it this way. The treasure provided and provide good paying jobs -- a reason for people to visit Rome. Long ago 9th C, given $$ by the emperor the Bishop of Verona faced the problem of whether to spend the $$ on a building program to build a decorate the church building or give to the poor, declared that the existence of the church (an open building ) was in fact a gift to the poor. One does not pay to enter St. Peter's!!
Promulgating birth control.. is another issue!! Would this help with the poverty issue?? (Poor people again provide lots of jobs for less poor people.)
Promulgating birth control.. is another issue!! Would this help with the poverty issue?? (Poor people again provide lots of jobs for less poor people.)
Given the way he lives, I think if he could, he would. The Vatican is not his to sell or go around slapping for sale signs on it's art.
He's done far more to focus on social justice than any other modern religious leader.
He's done far more to focus on social justice than any other modern religious leader.
2
I think Leviticus said to love ur neighbor as your self, then came Christ who said but I say Love your enemy. It is not because they are not your enemy, it is not because they are worthy even as much as your neighbor or friend is This is not the stuff that liberalism can believe in. It has little basis in reason and survival really. It answers to a higher calling.
5
Sounds good to me. Easier than having to feel bad about not doing anything.
7
What's there to worry about? Oh, That's right, I forgot . . . Hell. Maybe when you're pope, you feel you're beyond that.
1
All bishops go to Hell according to one saint who did not want to become one. One's opportunities for hellacious behavior increases with one's power and authority. Pope Francis is offer some(one) who have another example. Be generous, and stop being fearful about it. Pax, jb
1
This is the only way to be. The message is so simple, but because we live in a complicated world in which condescending morality and money are bedfellows, it is difficult to act with compassion on a daily basis. How sad that we need the pope to essentially say "Be a good person", and then have a newspaper editorial say "Pope To World: Be Good". But we do need that. Thank you.
59
The Church Hierarchy of Doctrine is like the condemnation of Caifous and the high priests while Jesus was God's message of compassion to the world that endured for many centuries and inspired billions of good generous and loving people.
Thank you for being the brother of Jesus Pope Francis. Peace!
Feed the hungry. Donate to food banks and pantries. They provide good nourishing food. Many more can donate to the needy instead of the few who encounter the panhandlers. Go to them instead of waiting for a chance meeting.
It is what Jesus taught us.
Thank you for being the brother of Jesus Pope Francis. Peace!
Feed the hungry. Donate to food banks and pantries. They provide good nourishing food. Many more can donate to the needy instead of the few who encounter the panhandlers. Go to them instead of waiting for a chance meeting.
It is what Jesus taught us.
26
NOT catholic, but I love this man. Not even religious. However, he is a vast improvement from the usual suspects. Thank you, Holy Father, and I wish a very long life for you.
300
I left the Church long ago but find the words spoken by this leader to call me to task. I am certain it is God's work he is doing.
3
Humanity still exists.
29
As a Catholic seminarian and, hopefully, a future priest, I am simultaneously inspired and unsettled by the teachings of Pope Francis. Inspired because, like his namesake, he fervently preaches and lives out the Gospel by his actions and not only his words, particularly in solidarity with the marginalized of our world. By the same token, his actions and words are unsettling because it reminds me that I, too, am called to live out the Gospel in this very difficult and radical way.
569
Every teacher you have should have a goal of making their students feel both inspired and unsettled. By pushing students beyond their comfort zones to explore and develop new capabilities of thought, knowledge, ability and behavior we can progress as a society as a people. If all we do is teach what is comfortable and excepted there is no progress.
2
to be in the world, but not of the world is to be unafraid of the world. stand on your heavenly turf, brother paul. it will never sway under your feet the way a 'golden' tower would. pax, jb
2
Most of the homeless have their necessities taken care of. A few bucks mostly makes you feel good about yourself. I've always felt it was about engaging. A lot of the homeless are disengaged. If I've got the time, I give them cigarettes -- I never met a homeless person who didn't smoke -- and I smoke one with them (I don't inhale) and we talk about anything that comes up. After a cigarette, there usually isn't much to say. but at least I tried.
5
Having worked in an ER that served the homeless, I would beg to differ about your first assertion.
4
Living near D.C., I have noticed many panhandlers on the city blocks panhandling for money. Though I sometimes give, I always wonder what they will do with my money. I heard from some source that most panhandling money goes to funding the panhandler's drug or alcohol problem, which is partially why I sometimes do not give. I would gladly donate to local homeless shelters, as I believe they are a more effective way for my money to be used. Perhaps we should invest more into temporary housing, drug rehabilitation, and employment assistance to successfully solve our nation's homeless problem.
7
Another chance to give without worry is when you are in line behind someone who can't pay their full bill. You can just feel how panicked or embarrassed he/she is, usually with children hanging on. Just tell the cashier that you will pay for the diffeeence. They can figure that out and we can do it without needing to worry. Thank you Pope Francis.
28
Amen.
12
Can we get The Pope over here and send Trump to the Vatican?
24
Uplifting editorial; thanks!
14
My heart is lifted hearing this advice.
15
According to Scripture, specifically to Jesus' teaching, we are to give to whomever asks, expecting nothing in return, and to judge not.
32
that's why it is call 'charitas'. giving without expecting a return. pax, jb
3
What a beautiful counsel from Pope Francis - clear, persuasive, and kind. Why must the concept of human compassion be any more complicated? This was the central message of Christ's ministry. Heartbreaking that is was so misunderstood in his time and is still misunderstood now.
32
I've no doubt it's the right call.
24
You are right, I can't assess if a panhandler is suffering from addiction, mental illness, poverty, or just hustling. I do worry about them, and the many others in need that I don't see on the street. I find some solace if giving to organizations and charities that I know serve the homeless, the poor, migrant workers, immigrants, and victims of domestic violence.
24
It is heartening to see Christians behave as Christ taught.
68
My Dad tells the story of an evening drive with my mother along Alligator Alley in Florida.
Mom sees a homeless man on the other side of the highway and asks Dad to turn around. Said she wanted to give him some money. Dad said he'll just go buy a pint with it.
Mom didn’t say a word, just stared at Dad. He got the message and the car was turned and the homeless man had 10 dollars in his pocket.
Mom always had it right. Pope Francis really would have liked my Mom. She's with his boss now.
Mom sees a homeless man on the other side of the highway and asks Dad to turn around. Said she wanted to give him some money. Dad said he'll just go buy a pint with it.
Mom didn’t say a word, just stared at Dad. He got the message and the car was turned and the homeless man had 10 dollars in his pocket.
Mom always had it right. Pope Francis really would have liked my Mom. She's with his boss now.
155
While I am not Catholic...I am awestruck by our Pope...I call him Our Pope because he is the one religious person who I feel truly understands me...he loves the people. He has compassion beyond compare. He is a beacon of light in this truly dark time we are facing in America.
159
With all the wall-building we have going on, it's wonderful to look in the eye of the "other" and feel equal --- feel the shared humanity. Pope Francis once humbly admitted his former authoritarian ways, but he eventually chose the better way of mercy and compassion, not the way of war and walls.
15
Sometimes giving away money is the easiest thing to do, especially for those of us who have some extra. Looking directly into the eyes of the needy and touching their hands with compassion, now that takes courage. Thanks for sharing this.
165
Sometimes you get the best free advice too. I remember a homeless lady in DC telling me not to sit on the stone curb at the memorials, because that causes hemorrhoids, "which are like the wolf in your butt".
NYC has a law that says everyone must be provided shelter. In the process of the person taking the initiative to access the benefits afforded them by this law they also receive a means to acquire sustenance. Better to use a collective charitable instinct formed into governing policy than to rely on personal self indulgence. I have given in the past because it made me feel good to do so, but soon it was like a drug - what a great guy I was for giving to the poor, etc. It's easy to lose perspective basking in one's magnanimous gestures. Eventually I was recognized as an easy touch, word spread around. It was like those nature films where the jackals are all over the gazelle after the lions have moved on to the dessert menu.
Then you'll also get the characters who give only to make a point what a great example they are setting, and shouldn't we all vote for because they try so hard for the down trodden.
Francis has the luxury of saying these things and often giving generously in front of the cameras because he also has a security detail watching out for him if when one day he's a little light on his walk to the office he's not gonna have to make sure and bring twice tomorrow to cover what coins he couldn't spare today - or else.
Angels depicted on the ceiling of one of his chapels are not always laying in wait on the street. Likely from a Vatican rooftop and with some binoculars he may try sampling perspectives gained by a more slightly downward angle.
Then you'll also get the characters who give only to make a point what a great example they are setting, and shouldn't we all vote for because they try so hard for the down trodden.
Francis has the luxury of saying these things and often giving generously in front of the cameras because he also has a security detail watching out for him if when one day he's a little light on his walk to the office he's not gonna have to make sure and bring twice tomorrow to cover what coins he couldn't spare today - or else.
Angels depicted on the ceiling of one of his chapels are not always laying in wait on the street. Likely from a Vatican rooftop and with some binoculars he may try sampling perspectives gained by a more slightly downward angle.
9
You have already failed to understand this teaching which btw I have also heard from religious teachers of other faiths including Judaism and Buddhism. The message is very simple and if you wish to attack it, find an ethical means to do so. The institutional wealth of the Catholic Church is a irrelevant to your personal ethical response to an individual in need.
4
Bingo. If someone who is a scammer gets a dollar from me that's on them, not on me.
33
Yes! Give the money or don't, but stop with the moralizing and hand-wringing laments about "he's just going to buy booze," or "she could get a job." It's not my business what the guy I just gave a dollar to does with the money. Once I give it away, I have zero control over it. That's the whole point. If it bothered me I wouldn't give it.
I always say to myself: I need this dollar less than this fellow does, because he's standing on the street corner and I'm in my nice warm car. On that note, money is fine but consider keeping gloves and hats in the car. Minnesota is brutal for the homeless.
I always say to myself: I need this dollar less than this fellow does, because he's standing on the street corner and I'm in my nice warm car. On that note, money is fine but consider keeping gloves and hats in the car. Minnesota is brutal for the homeless.
426
My nephew Chuck, a recovering alcoholic, would not give away cash. But time and time, again - he would go get a burger and a hot coffee and bring them to the panhandler. He always said then he'd know the person had at least 1 meal that day.
5
Yes! I say the same thing to myself. This person needs it more than I do.
Same for tipping...when I'm trying to decide $3 or $4 tip - I always go the extra dollar because while (luckily) it doesn't make a huge difference to me, it might be the difference between a "good" or "great" tip, why not make someone feel good?!!
Same for tipping...when I'm trying to decide $3 or $4 tip - I always go the extra dollar because while (luckily) it doesn't make a huge difference to me, it might be the difference between a "good" or "great" tip, why not make someone feel good?!!
6
I often have food in the car. I have gotten so much appreciation from people who begged for money, but got homemade hamentashen. All the fleece on sale at fabric stores at this time makes a good handout too.
I remember when someone stole the penny jar at my parents' church. The minister came to my dad upset, and my dad told him that the thief no doubt needed the pennies more than the church jar did.
I remember when someone stole the penny jar at my parents' church. The minister came to my dad upset, and my dad told him that the thief no doubt needed the pennies more than the church jar did.
4
This sounds great. Tomorrow I'm going to quit my job and just panhandle because I learned everyone is now giving out money in the name of piety.
8
You, sir or madam, are a cynical person.
4
Go ahead, if you think it's "easy" to panhandle.
5
What a wonderful message. From the Pope and the Times.
This same compassion should infuse our social programs at home and our foreign aid abroad. We should provide healthcare and good education for all. Without exception and without means testing. Stinginess shouldn't enter in.
Whether you're religious or not, did you know the Bible urges what's called a Jubilee year, where debts are forgiven. And urges its readers to "care for the alien among you" - reminding us that we too, in terms of our ancestors, were once aliens.
There are so many ways to be compassionate. Sometimes what you give away can feel so much more meaningful than what you keep for yourself or expect payment in return. Even a smile can be a gift.
What an uplifting Editorial!
This same compassion should infuse our social programs at home and our foreign aid abroad. We should provide healthcare and good education for all. Without exception and without means testing. Stinginess shouldn't enter in.
Whether you're religious or not, did you know the Bible urges what's called a Jubilee year, where debts are forgiven. And urges its readers to "care for the alien among you" - reminding us that we too, in terms of our ancestors, were once aliens.
There are so many ways to be compassionate. Sometimes what you give away can feel so much more meaningful than what you keep for yourself or expect payment in return. Even a smile can be a gift.
What an uplifting Editorial!
295
An "uplifting editorial" indeed. I carry some bills with me for quick access when I am on the streets of NYC. Many who ask are not "frauds" and what matters most is the good will of the giver, not the need of the recipient. Believers know that.
6
Grazie Papa Francis.
23
While Pope Francis is hitting all the right notes generally I don't think he is right about this. Homelessness and begging are symptoms of inadequate income, marginalization if the mentally ill and addicted, systematic discrimination and similar societal ills. Proper taxation and social expenditures would do a lot to alleviate most of this blight. To throw a buck or two at someone to make them go away and to rinse your conscience of guilt for a few minutes is poor policy and avoids the real work of solving the actual problems. Do the real job of raising taxes, improving public education, drug programs, family planning, decent public housing and the begging will diminish and public space will be far more pleasant than it is now.
23
Remember, "there but for the grace of God, go I". Your truly intellectual, economic analysis somehow lacks the appreciation of the status, intellectual, economic, of someone in the position of asking for assistance. Christ didn't ask people to help those in need only if there weren't adequate incomes available nor if the society had poor policies, but if there was need. Try to earn a living as a cynic by relying on the help of strangers and see what's it's really like.
7
Maybe this works in Canada. I don't think it works here in the blessed U.S., particularly impoverished New Mexico, especially Albuquerque, where off ramps and medians are loaded with panhandlers.
1
Agree we need to do all we can to support folks through government programs but until that happens, we have to step in as individuals.
3
The more I learn about this Pope the more I like him.
440
Pope Francis is a remarkable human being.
20
Do NOT give money to panhandlers. Instead, give it to nonprofits in your area that help the homeless.
Many panhandlers are frauds, just using their spare time to make money before returning to their warm homes. Others use the money to support their drug habit. Others are mentally ill, but by choice not getting treatment. Homelessness agencies deal with their clients to provide homes, with rules, in exchange for requirements for treatment of addiction and mental illness.
Sorry, Papa, not infallible on this one!
Many panhandlers are frauds, just using their spare time to make money before returning to their warm homes. Others use the money to support their drug habit. Others are mentally ill, but by choice not getting treatment. Homelessness agencies deal with their clients to provide homes, with rules, in exchange for requirements for treatment of addiction and mental illness.
Sorry, Papa, not infallible on this one!
151
In your opinion, I think. And while I think that many of these agencies do great good, we cannot and should not force anyone into rigid conformity. Perhaps they can be led there, but who are we to decide that "you do it my way or the highway," quite literally.
I would like to understand how people who are mentally ill can make a choice to not get treatment. In some cases that may be true, but many people who suffer these illnesses cannot rationally make that choice.
But for the grace of God (or luck, genetics, or natural selection) go all of us.
I would like to understand how people who are mentally ill can make a choice to not get treatment. In some cases that may be true, but many people who suffer these illnesses cannot rationally make that choice.
But for the grace of God (or luck, genetics, or natural selection) go all of us.
2
Many shelters are shunned because they are unsafe. Further, the nature of the illness of mental instability makes it nigh impossible for many to keep to a regimen agencies require for treatment.
I do agree with an apple a day that the pope is not infallible. He does though err on the side of charity which is more than some say.
I do agree with an apple a day that the pope is not infallible. He does though err on the side of charity which is more than some say.
3
It's this paternalistic attitude that keeps people from getting help in clinics and other institutions. The poor want freedom and respect as much as anyone.
It's easy to PayPal a few bucks to a charity, much of which will go to pay administrators' salaries; much harder to look someone in the eyes and touch her hands.
It's easy to PayPal a few bucks to a charity, much of which will go to pay administrators' salaries; much harder to look someone in the eyes and touch her hands.
6
Amazing: a Pope suggesting that people, believers especially, behave in Christlike ways with fellow men. What I'm certain he knows from his long experience is that acknowledging the other as worthy of your attention enhances giver and receiver. It's Martin Buber's I-Thou, not I-it.
92
There is no one who in seeing the suffering of a person in a film doesn't have the thought that had he been there, he would have helped the poor person. Yet, we are reluctant to act in real life. (other than inability to provide the help).
because we are not sure that we are facing a situation of real want rather than someone who is gaming the "system". Nevertheless, if you can, better to sin toward generosity. Which being to mind a short story by a Spanish author. It is about a bishop who walks to the cathedral every day and meets beggars. He never fails to give something and in doing so recommends: "Use it for your vices".
because we are not sure that we are facing a situation of real want rather than someone who is gaming the "system". Nevertheless, if you can, better to sin toward generosity. Which being to mind a short story by a Spanish author. It is about a bishop who walks to the cathedral every day and meets beggars. He never fails to give something and in doing so recommends: "Use it for your vices".
36
I prefer to take my charitable advice from Pope Paul Ryan of the House of Reverse Robin Hoods, who plays a Catholic on TV but appears to be completely unfamiliar with Catholicism.
In 2012, Ryan's savage budget plan proposed massive cuts to food stamps and other assistance programs for the poor.
The US Conference of Catholic Bishops then formally protested Ryan's economic brutality and said the Ryan budget failed to meet certain “moral criteria” by disproportionately cutting programs that “serve poor and vulnerable people.”
Paul Ryan pretended to care about what the bishops said in 2012, and said this at the time:
“A person’s faith is central to how they conduct themselves in public and in private. So to me, using my Catholic faith, we call it the social magisterium, which is how do you apply the doctrine of your teaching into your everyday life as a lay person ?"
Pious Paul Ryan then handed a starving, homeless person two tax cuts, a cemetery voucher and a refundable tax credit.
The Lord works in mysterious fraudulent ways.
In 2012, Ryan's savage budget plan proposed massive cuts to food stamps and other assistance programs for the poor.
The US Conference of Catholic Bishops then formally protested Ryan's economic brutality and said the Ryan budget failed to meet certain “moral criteria” by disproportionately cutting programs that “serve poor and vulnerable people.”
Paul Ryan pretended to care about what the bishops said in 2012, and said this at the time:
“A person’s faith is central to how they conduct themselves in public and in private. So to me, using my Catholic faith, we call it the social magisterium, which is how do you apply the doctrine of your teaching into your everyday life as a lay person ?"
Pious Paul Ryan then handed a starving, homeless person two tax cuts, a cemetery voucher and a refundable tax credit.
The Lord works in mysterious fraudulent ways.
361
As a Catholic, I agree with Paul Ryan. Under Obama, young healthy people were on the welfare rolls and some never left. What was meant as a temporary fix, became a life long occupation. They were playing the system but thankfully it will soon end.
Charity is fundamentally different than public policy or taxation, which are mandatory and confiscatory. If I give or don't give to a beggar on the streets, it is my choice -- to give at all, when to give, how much to give, etc.
You don't know anything about food stamps, Socrates, because you are wealthy, privileged, elite and live in an ivory tower. It's all theoretical to you. I live in an actual neighborhood with poor folks on food stamps. I shop at the same stores, I see what they buy (no, I'm not snooping -- our state SNAP system requires a special machine to swipe). I'm subsidizing not milk or oatmeal, vegetables or fruits, meat or fish for their hungry children -- but gallons of fruit punch, chips, cookies, candy, soda pop, sugary cereal -- expensive, so it runs out mid-month and then what?
I also see the SAME FOLKS selling their food stamps, to get cash for things like cigarettes, beer, lotto tickets, pot, fancy manicures and the like. None of these people are thin or look starving, like in photos of the Great Depression. Indeed, the majority are overweight.
There certainly ARE homeless in America, which is a disgrace, but it's due to the way lefties have bid up the cost of real estate. There are, however, no starving people in the US whatsoever.
You don't know anything about food stamps, Socrates, because you are wealthy, privileged, elite and live in an ivory tower. It's all theoretical to you. I live in an actual neighborhood with poor folks on food stamps. I shop at the same stores, I see what they buy (no, I'm not snooping -- our state SNAP system requires a special machine to swipe). I'm subsidizing not milk or oatmeal, vegetables or fruits, meat or fish for their hungry children -- but gallons of fruit punch, chips, cookies, candy, soda pop, sugary cereal -- expensive, so it runs out mid-month and then what?
I also see the SAME FOLKS selling their food stamps, to get cash for things like cigarettes, beer, lotto tickets, pot, fancy manicures and the like. None of these people are thin or look starving, like in photos of the Great Depression. Indeed, the majority are overweight.
There certainly ARE homeless in America, which is a disgrace, but it's due to the way lefties have bid up the cost of real estate. There are, however, no starving people in the US whatsoever.
1
Forgive me, but that's not the Lord's ways. That would be Paul Ryan's ways. The social gospel does not contradict the social teachings of the church as some conservatives may imply. Re-read the Life of St Martin de Tours by Sulpicius Serverus to understand how a personal trait of the generous youth becomes a personal virtue of the adult. Martin become Charitas. Read the story of how he saved the condemned men without a word,and yet the Saint never denied the oppressor the same love and compassion. That's one I struggle with when it comes to DJT. Those in power can be as impoverished as those panhandling in front of the Golden Tower, but in a way that is spiritually deforming. Thank you NYT for this essay. Pax, jb.
2
I've been the recipient of great kindness and charity - and who among us is exempt from the vicissitudes of fate? #DoUntoOthers
309
It's nice to know the editorial board agrees with the Pope on helping the poor, which is the foundation of the teachings of Jesus.
Our Philistine in chief is wasting no time in doing the opposite, making America totally inhospitable, uncharitable, and mean.
he wrote an executive order promising to kick out only those here illegally guilty of major crimes. Turns out the order was a lot broader, giving ICE agents The leeway to deport anybody, and question anybody even if it happens to be a respected French professor on route to a conference in Texas .
I don't have to wonder what the pope thinks of Trump, because they have already tussled – or rather Trump has tussled with Francis. Not the most generous of men, Trump gets annoyed when the pope calls him out on climate change, immigration, and refugee policy--all policies not around at the time of Jesus, but interpreted by Pope Francis as our modern-day equivalent of helping the poor.
Francis might say such behavior is good because Christ teaches us that it is. The cynic in me also feels that acceptance of refugees – properly vetted of course like they always are--is the least we can do for our role in mucking around in the middle east and creating all of these problems in the first place.
Our Philistine in chief is wasting no time in doing the opposite, making America totally inhospitable, uncharitable, and mean.
he wrote an executive order promising to kick out only those here illegally guilty of major crimes. Turns out the order was a lot broader, giving ICE agents The leeway to deport anybody, and question anybody even if it happens to be a respected French professor on route to a conference in Texas .
I don't have to wonder what the pope thinks of Trump, because they have already tussled – or rather Trump has tussled with Francis. Not the most generous of men, Trump gets annoyed when the pope calls him out on climate change, immigration, and refugee policy--all policies not around at the time of Jesus, but interpreted by Pope Francis as our modern-day equivalent of helping the poor.
Francis might say such behavior is good because Christ teaches us that it is. The cynic in me also feels that acceptance of refugees – properly vetted of course like they always are--is the least we can do for our role in mucking around in the middle east and creating all of these problems in the first place.
303
Why would a respected French professor be here illegally?
O Christine, don't just use this to kick this "Philistine in Chief" alone, and talk later of "the acceptance of refugees", as if only this "Philistine" had any part in the negatives in these matters.
Did you, when there was time for it, shoot your poison arrows from behind at the, then, "Pharisee in Chief" who thought so much of the destitute and homeless that he created millions of them, with the help of his planned successor, and never let any of them in - until it seemed politically profitable to hand-pick 10,000 out of 10million (i.e. 1permill - not percent) to come to the promised land.
You, too, are a bit a cynic yourself when your "acceptance" is depending on "proper vetting", although you seem to recognize, o the other hand, that those dangers we all feel now are the result of someone's "mucking around" somewhere and "creating all these problems".
Give the new "Philistine" his chance - but hold him to his word which he promised: To let go of those damned unchristian politics of messing wit other peoples' lives by commanding what kind of and whom they should have governing them.
It's that arrogance of "Exceptionality" which does mot harm in the world - and let's not think even once that the earlier "Aryan" form of it, somewhere else, was different from it in any way. It is always this: Ayes, WE are - and WE can! - because it's US.
Did you, when there was time for it, shoot your poison arrows from behind at the, then, "Pharisee in Chief" who thought so much of the destitute and homeless that he created millions of them, with the help of his planned successor, and never let any of them in - until it seemed politically profitable to hand-pick 10,000 out of 10million (i.e. 1permill - not percent) to come to the promised land.
You, too, are a bit a cynic yourself when your "acceptance" is depending on "proper vetting", although you seem to recognize, o the other hand, that those dangers we all feel now are the result of someone's "mucking around" somewhere and "creating all these problems".
Give the new "Philistine" his chance - but hold him to his word which he promised: To let go of those damned unchristian politics of messing wit other peoples' lives by commanding what kind of and whom they should have governing them.
It's that arrogance of "Exceptionality" which does mot harm in the world - and let's not think even once that the earlier "Aryan" form of it, somewhere else, was different from it in any way. It is always this: Ayes, WE are - and WE can! - because it's US.
Try to reserve your Trump Derangement Syndrome outrage for appropriate articles. And when you do take your wild swings, try to keep in mind that many perfectly ethical people completely disagree with your assumptions about a character you do not personally know. For the record I donated to Sanders and voted for Hillary.
4
Always good advice. But direction from the Vicar of Christ and the inheritor of the mantle conferred on Peter "that what you [Peter] bind and lose on earth will be so in heaven also"?
This is probably why most popes are a LITTLE more careful in the advice they give -- everlasting damnation for NOT dropping that coin or bill into the hat, meeting the eyes and touching the hand, could be a MITE high a price to pay for not wanting to contribute to a bottle of Sneaky Pete.
This is probably why most popes are a LITTLE more careful in the advice they give -- everlasting damnation for NOT dropping that coin or bill into the hat, meeting the eyes and touching the hand, could be a MITE high a price to pay for not wanting to contribute to a bottle of Sneaky Pete.
18
Sure, Richard, only help the worthy poor, which will guarantee that you never suffer the high cost of being "conned" - embarrassment. Nowhere does the Pope suggest "everlasting damnation" for being fearful, judgmental or miserly in the moment.
Why open with "always good advice" only to reject it?
Why open with "always good advice" only to reject it?
106
Mr. Luettgen, I don’t know about the intricacies of Catholic theology, but it seems to me that Pope Francis is not condemning those who don’t give.
He seems to be saying that those who give should do so in a manner that recognizes the dignity of the recipient, and affirm the humanity of both giver and receiver. He urges us to give, but does he really condemn those who do not give.
As a Mormon I may not appreciate the subtleties of papal expression, but in the Book of Mormon there is a prophet named Benjamin who gives essentially the same advice. He says we should not suffer the beggar to put up his petition to us in vain, and argues that we are all beggars before God and should at least share what we have, rather than despise those who ask for our help.
He seems to be saying that those who give should do so in a manner that recognizes the dignity of the recipient, and affirm the humanity of both giver and receiver. He urges us to give, but does he really condemn those who do not give.
As a Mormon I may not appreciate the subtleties of papal expression, but in the Book of Mormon there is a prophet named Benjamin who gives essentially the same advice. He says we should not suffer the beggar to put up his petition to us in vain, and argues that we are all beggars before God and should at least share what we have, rather than despise those who ask for our help.
10
Even the Pope's message contains a caveat helping someone who is in need. Unfortunately there are scammers and those whose real 'need' is rehab. Giving to recognized charitable organizations is an alternative for me though this advice is going well beyond a material transfer in interactions with panhandlers.
1
This Pope really touches my heart
He simply is a man apart
He's a breath of fresh air
While Trump I can't bear
Who with mere compassion can't part.
He simply is a man apart
He's a breath of fresh air
While Trump I can't bear
Who with mere compassion can't part.
390
What you call compassion others call stupidity. Whatever happened to the idea of teaching a man to fish ...
8
Its not an either/or choice-we can do both.
3
These are not mutually exclusive.
3
I've read that such outreach may be the only decent interaction a homeless person may have all day, so it is very important. I will add the Pope's advice to touch the person's hands while smiling in their eyes.