Say that there is a church collection, should one give money to it (since it is for the upkeep of the pastor I think)? Or should you not if you don’t have any money physically on you but you could retreive some? I ask because as I have read it is a duty to give oblations for priests but I observe that sometimes myself and others don’t give because we simply don’t have any money with us at the time. But yet, if it’s a duty and precept one cannot not do it so would I have to get some money?
Thanks
Your question may be one of logistics. Each week we take up a collection. Whether or not you put anything into the basket is irrelevant. Whether or not you give is relevant. Many people give via envelopes. So, they contribute one check per month instead of weekly. Many others give via direct withdraw from their checking account, in parishes that offer that. So, they don’t physically put anything into the basket at all. Still others give every week and put in the basket either check or cash.
You should establish your budget for giving and include regular Sunday collection (upkeep and running of your specific parish), special offerings (for the Church missions), and diocesan contributions (bishop’s annual appeal). Add all that up, and divide by 12, or 52, or whatever number. Decide how you are going to give-- by envelope, cash, check, auto pay, or a combination. Make sure you indicate how much is for various special collections so the money is allocated properly.
And, if there is an unscheduled special collection on a day when you are unprepared-- no cash, didn’t bring the checkbook, etc.-- and you want to contribute then you can mark an envelope the next week and deposit it in the collection or mail a check to the parish office during the week.
You don’t have to physically put something in the collection plate every week. There are lots of ways to arrange support of the parish and its works.