In the Gospel reading we hear of friends of Jesus who helped him and his disciples in their preaching and ministry, “who provided for them out of their own funds.”

Even today the Church and its many works and ministries need the support of its members. Many generously do so. The training of ordained ministers of the Church costs much and needs the continuing support of the faithful

Of course, supporting the work of the Church is not only through monetary contributions and donations in kind. Many are able to help and support the Church through their volunteer work and service to the Church as ministers and helpers in the Church’s liturgical works and in the many and varied needs of its parishes and other works. All can be of help in the traditional works of mercy, corporal and spiritual: visiting and helping the sick, visiting those in prison, counseling those with problems.

May we be generous and imaginative in our participation in the life of the Church through our parishes.