Medieval Catholic Almsgiving and Modern Social Work

In ancient (and modern) Catholic practice, almsgiving is used to support the poor and needy. It is a selfless offer that is expected by most of its members. This almsgiving is associated with both physical needs and emotional needs. In ancient times, people were asked to give money and food to those in need. It was also expected that those of the faith would give of their time and abilities to ensure that their citizens were being taken care of. In the Catholic faith at this time, it was important to use this almsgiving to forget one’s own troubles. The almsgiving was used to focus outward, even when it was a burden to do. The Catholics believed that by doing this, they would be “storing up treasure in Heaven” (Hays).

This practice is similar to the main goals of social work. In the National Association of Social Worker’s manual, the main goals of a social worker include giving service, pushing for social justice, accepting the dignity and worth of all people, seeing the importance in human relationships, working with integrity, and showing competence in the field (NASW Code of Ethics). All of these aspects are used to ensure that those that need help the most are getting the help they need, whether monetarily, physically, emotionally, or socially. These core values dictate everything that social workers do. Another central element to social work is that the work should be done to help all people, regardless of their situation. Oftentimes, this includes the sad fact that many people cannot financially support themselves and can often not pay for counseling, social programs, or provide for basic needs. Many social workers that aim to help do so with little to no financial compensation because of that.

It is the goal of the social worker, as it is for the ancient Catholic almsgivers, to care for their neighbor and assist in no only existing, but thriving in the community. This is the same value that the social workers find. If I did not know better, I would think that this ancient Catholic way was a strong influence for modern-day social work. The Christ-like virtues of charity and selflessness guide the Catholic almsgivers, while an understanding and empathy for others guides social workers today. Either way, the values, morals, and actions of these two groups heavily relate to each other.

"Catholic Culture : Lent : Workshop : Lenten Program - Almsgiving." Catholic Culture : Lent : Workshop : Lenten Program - Almsgiving. N.p., n.d. Web. 03 Dec. 2014.

Hays, C. M. (2012, Provision for the poor and the mission of the church: Ancient appeals and contemporary viability.(original research)(conference notes). HTS Teologiese Studies, 68

National Association of Social Workers. (1999). Code of ethics of the National Association of Social Workers. Washington, DC.  NASW Press.