How do I stop my parish from ringing bells for the Salvation Army?

[Patrick715]

In this week’s bulletin the following apperared:

Again this year we have been blessed with the opportunity to enhance our Christmas experience by ringing the Salvation Army bell for those less fortunate. Our location this year will be X throughout our campaign. Last year our parish realized $X of $X, 86% of which stays in our community. All parishioners are strongly encouraged to sign up for one or more one-hour blocks of time on the sign-up board located in our gathering space.

Other than the scandal assocated with supporting a Protestant sect that is not pro-life can you help direct me to other points of discussion that I may use to help persuade my pastor to stop this?

 

[Michelle_Arnold]

If the issue is principle, you’ve got more than enough reason already. Catholic organizations (particularly parishes or dioceses) should not be fundraising for Protestant organizations in their endeavors when there are fellow Catholic organizations (e.g., the St. Vincent de Paul Society) doing the same work. Even secular organizations doing the same work (e.g., Toys for Tots) should be preferred when supporting the Protestant organization would cause scandal and there is no Catholic organization available.

But, given the wording of this bulletin announcement, is it possible that your parish is receiving a cut of the donations gathered by parishioners for the Salvation Army for use in the parish’s own charitable endeavors? In such a situation, the temptation may be to turn a blind eye to principle when what is at stake is raising necessary funds for the needy.

I recommend finding out for certain what is going on here. If it is the case that the parish is receiving a cut of the Salvation Army donations, then send the bulletin announcement, substantiation of the parish’s policy, and a brief summary of the problems with Catholics supporting the Salvation Army in a letter to the bishop of the diocese. Ask him for advice on how your parish can support the needy in your parish community without cooperating in giving scandal by raising funds for a Protestant denomination, however worthy the cause might appear to be.