When it comes to the question of social justice, there is more at play than the needs of the poor. Charity requires not only a recipient but also a giver, and that increases the issue's moral complexity. From the earliest days of the church, care for the poor was central. It's there in the New Testament writings, in Christ's own words even. It's there in the Didache, which directs Christians to spend time with the lowly (3.9) and give their firstfruits to the poor (13.4). And great pastors … [Read more...]