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AGLIER0 11
newsletter for Salesian
Missionary Animation ' Publication of the Missions Sector for SDB Communities and Friends of the Salesian Missions
The missionary and the money
ft
Greenhorn missionary: "We ought to be careful with money. Money is the dung
of the devi/1" - Veteran missionary: "That's right. We need it to fertilize the
missionary soil."
Dear friend
and confreres,
We live in a "two-speed world".
We Salesians feel, on the one
hand, that 'wealth is produced"
and, on the other, that
"inequality is created" Our
youth centres feel the need to
extend help, but often lack the
means (personnel and money)
to do so. As "advocates" for
young people, we must carry
out our commitment to them
in an even more radical and
honest way, remembering that
in every young person there is
Christ himself waiting for us.
If we are convinced of this, we
will also find ways to finance
our projects. To know whether
our "Salesian economy" is
working as it ought to or not,
we need to check whether we
have been able to show others
the "footprints of God" in this
world, which is the most
important thingl
One does not undergo any physical changes due to one's religious profession or
priestly ordination. A missionary has needs like all other human beings. The
people he evangelizes have their needs, too, and often lack the wherewithal to
meet even their basic necessities. Material resources are indispensable for the
missionary.
There are multiple sources from which to acquire these resources.
1. A missionary may earn, through the productive use of the land, buildings,
and other property of his institution, or as payment for services he offers
(school fees, royalties, etc.)
2. He may negotiate vvith civil authorities to benefit from government
projects for education, healthcare, social assistance, etc.
3. Most companies and corporations feel the need to "give something back
to society" and may also be a source of support to the missionary.
4. Many foundations, trusts and other organizations would donate to good
projects, some even to religious activities.
5. Yet another source: donations and church offerings, regular ones, and
special collections, or for particular services.
A good missionary has diverse sources of funds from each of the above
categories. He needs to be discriminating about his sources. He does not create
the image of being a businessman more than a missionary or be seen as buying
or selling sacraments and prayers or accept donations from the corrupt or from
companies engaged in activities of questionable moral values.
It is of the utmost importance that we be transparent, respect the intentions of
donors, and make judicious use of the money we have. If a missionary is
passionate about his mission, serves the poorest, and is economical, transparent,
and efficient ... people recognize him, and money flows to him. Money is a
necessary means for the missionary to realize his mission. However, it always
remains only a means. It never replaces the true missionary goal: to reflect God's
love for his children.
▀ Father George MC Menamparampil, SDB
Salesian Missionary Solidarity
FOR REFLEXION
AND SHARING
▀ Jean Paul Muller, SDB
Economer General
▀ In which area of my life
do I think I can be more
e conomical?
▀ How do I use the money
I have been entrusted with
for the benefit of others?
