Catholic position on money for the unemployed

[Bhaoirluin]

Is it compatible with Catholicism for a system to exist where unemployed people are given money by the Government, obtained through the taxes that employed people pay? If so, should this be temporary help, or permanent until they have found work?

 

[mchale]

Is it compatible with Catholicism for a system to exist where unemployed people are given money by the Government, obtained through the taxes that employed people pay? If so, should this be temporary help, or permanent until they have found work?

Yes it is compatible, depending on motive of the state. The question is, is the government really acting with due concern for its citizens and not simply pushing forward a materialistic agenda.

Or to put it in simple terms. Being a socialist is not compatible with being Catholic, however, many of the practices of socialism can be considered compatible with Catholicism (otherwise lots of monasteries are in trouble).

–
Bill

 

[CMatt25]

My priest not long ago said his answer to the poor is simply to get a job. Needless to say I haven’t been back.

 

[mchale]

My priest not long ago said his answer to the poor is simply to get a job. Needless to say I haven’t been back.

So where the heck does the money from the poor box go?

I think it is safe to say that most Catholic priests, regardless of whether they support government unemployment or not, do not believe that the poor should not receive help. The ultimate question is whether it should be government’s role to provide some of that help.

–
Bill

 

[CMatt25]

So where the heck does the money from the poor box go?

I think it is safe to say that most Catholic priests, regardless of whether they support government unemployment or not, do not believe that the poor should not receive help. The ultimate question is whether it should be government’s role to provide some of that help.

–
Bill

Well the view of the particular priest I referred to is since there will always be poor, don’t question how much money his parish spends on the poor vs adorning the parish decor. And if someone can only afford a dollar for the poor, especially don’t question. I do pray he does not represent “most” today.

 

[SonCatcher]

The correct term is “unemployment insurance.” Employed people pay insurance premiums so that if they should become unemployed through no fault of their own, they will have some assistance until they regain employment. Self-employed people are not required to pay these premiums so they usually do not qualify.

There is nothing wrong with collecting on an insurance policy if you meet the terms.

 

[agbasinger]

2 Thessalonians 3:10.

The unwilling shall not eat, but the unable will.