The Collection
by Paul Turner

The weekly collection humbly expresses the community's faith. The silent routine accompanies the spirit of selflessness that unites believers. Whether your gift is large or small, the collection expresses what we have in common — a desire to share.

In the Mass, the collection occurs at the beginning of the Liturgy of the Eucharist. Its placement is significant. It is not an admission fee to get into the building. It is part of the heart of the Mass. Every Mass celebrates the sacrifice of Christ on the cross. That sacrifice unfolds before our eyes as the gifts we bring, the bread and wine, are transformed into the Body and Blood of Christ and offered to God.

This sacrificial action begins when we carry bread and wine to the altar during the preparation of the gifts. With them we bring our gifts for the poor. This procession moves through the community because these gifts come from us and represent us. They represent our offering to God and our communion with God. Just as the Body and Blood of Christ bring heavenly nourishment to our community, so the collection brings material aid.

That material aid is no small matter. Your church depends on your gift. Parishes receive money like beggars, not like clerks. People give not to receive a product; they give to make a gift.

The charity which underlies the collection results from faith. We believe that what we have comes from God, and we know it was given for the enjoyment of all. A habit of giving comes from a heart that has learned the satisfactions of generosity. A habit of giving offers us peace that we are doing our part to make the world a better, more generous place.

The Scriptures recommend a tithe — giving 10 percent of what we earn to charities. By giving from what we receive, we share Godžs love with the world.

Copyright © 1997, Resource Publications, Inc. 160 E. Virginia St. #290, San Jose, CA 95112, (408) 286-8505. This article may not be reproduced in any form without permission from the publisher.  For permission e-mail info@rpinet.com.
Paul Turner, pastor of St. Munchin Parish in Cameron, MO, holds a doctorate in sacramental theology from Sant' Anselmo University in Rome.