Financial aid to people or institutions in need is a practice deeply rooted in Christian doctrine. However, moral doubts arise when there is a possibility that such resources may be used for illicit purposes or contrary to the common good. What does the Church teach us about this dilemma?
The principle of right intention
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (no. 1753) establishes that human actions must not only be judged by the end sought, but also by the means used. Helping financially is a work of mercy, but if the beneficiary uses that aid for immoral or illegal purposes, it generates indirect collaboration in evil.
Pope Francis has insisted on several occasions on the importance of our solidarity being effective and responsible. In his message for the World Day of the Poor 2023, he stressed that “it is not enough to give; we must give well.” This implies discernment and a real commitment to the ultimate destination of our aid.
Discernment and prudence
Prudence is a cardinal virtue that helps us choose the good in each specific circumstance. Before offering financial support, it is essential to analyze the situation and seek reliable information about the person or institution requesting our help.
Vatican News, in numerous articles, has recalled the importance of working with organizations that have transparency and clear ethical principles. In the words of Benedict XVI, in Caritas in veritate (§ 30): “It is essential that aid be distributed according to objective criteria and be directed to real needs.”
What to do if we suspect misuse?
- Investigate: If you have reasonable doubts about the destination of the money, look for additional information. Many institutions have public audits or activity reports that you can consult.
- Offer help in other ways: Instead of money, you could contribute material goods or services that directly respond to the requester’s need.
- Consult a moral or spiritual authority: Speaking with a priest, spiritual director, or a trusted person in the community can help you discern better.
- Prioritize trustworthy organizations: Support institutions that work for the common good and have a proven commitment to justice and transparency. For example, Caritas International is a model of responsible and supportive management.
Consequences of collaboration in evil
The Church distinguishes between formal and material collaboration in evil. Formal collaboration occurs when someone shares the intention of the immoral act, while material collaboration occurs when one indirectly contributes to evil without sharing its intention. The Catechism teaches that even material collaboration can be immoral if there is a direct and necessary relationship with the illicit act (CIC, no. 1868).
This calls us to reflect on the responsibility we have to ensure that our actions benefit others without promoting injustice. Transparency and supervision in the use of resources are essential to avoid inadvertently contributing to evil.
Christian witness to evil
Saint Paul exhorts us in the Letter to the Romans (12:21): “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” This means that we must not close ourselves off from helping for fear of abuse, but we must act with prudence and responsibility so that our collaboration does not foster injustice.
Pope Francis also encourages us to practice charity illuminated by truth. In his encyclical Fratelli tutti (§ 187), he reminds us that solidarity must be accompanied by the search for the common good and social justice. Thus, our help not only responds to an immediate need, but also contributes to building a more just world.
Helping is a Christian duty, but so is ensuring that our help is not complicit in evil. When in doubt, turn to prayer and discernment, trusting that the Holy Spirit will illuminate your path to do good according to God’s will.
