The disparity between wealth and poverty, including the wealth of religious institutions and the suffering of the impoverished, is a topic that has stirred hearts and minds through the ages. The Bible teaches that wealth and resources should be used to help those in need. Jesus Himself said, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in” (Matthew 25:35). This verse highlights the call for compassion and action towards those in need.

The early church in the Acts of the Apostles exemplifies the sharing of resources, as seen in Acts 4:32-35: “All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had… There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone who had need.”

The question of why institutions, not limited to the Catholic Church, may possess wealth while there is widespread poverty in the world, touches on complex issues of stewardship, governance, and human responsibility. It is a call to remember the biblical principle of caring for the least among us and to reflect on how best to use resources for the good of all, especially the poor and vulnerable.

Jesus taught the importance of caring for those in need and using earthly riches for heavenly purposes: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:19-21).

As followers of Christ, the call is to continually seek ways to use the resources and blessings we have to make a difference in the lives of those who are suffering.