Can poor people take money from the collection plates at church, if they are hungry and homeless?

Answer 1

Yes, if God himself permitted them, in their opinion, to do so

Answer 2

Technically they should be able to, since the church should be engaged in charitable programs anyway. But as it would occur in a public place, there would likely be misunderstandings, and perhaps violence. Donors expect the church to make responsible decisions about the use of the money. Shortcutting the process conveys an impression of mistrust and deceit.

Back in the earliest days of Christianity, the gifts were not money but livestock and produce, intended for the benefit of those in the community that needed it. (After all, you can't build an office wing or a choir loft with a bushel of wheat or a goat.) We've made the process simpler and more flexible now, but it should still have a strong element of compassion and charity in it. (Otherwise, it's a scam.)

Serious answer: find out which charitable programs the money is going to and follow it there.

Answer 3

I do not think they should just take the money, but if they talk to the pastor of the church they will often help them out. A church I used to go to had a program, when people were in need, other families would make dinners for them, invite them over and the church gave them some financial help.
In this particular church there were people who owned businesses and they would often offer jobs to those in need.

Answer 4

No. They can go to the elders of the church and seek help. The church is required by God to help the poor and hungry. To take from the plate would be considered stealing.

Answer 5

I was brought up Catholic, but now I am a non-denominational Christian. I do know that any person who went to a Priest at our Church and needed money for food, or even because they were short on their rent,
they would get the money, no questions asked, beyond the normal ones like "are you sick" and "are their any children with you who have needs", etc.etc...
Thats one thing I can say for the Catholic Church; they will give to the needy, and they will do it beginning right smack in their own neighborhood before any overseas missions got a penny of it. I don't agree with 99% of their doctrine, but on this
issue, they cannot be matched in their
care and generosity.

Answer 6

Somebody would no doubt make a big commotion about it. Though, if I were the priest in that situation, i'd invite the homeless man/woman to come work at the church.

No doubt a church could always use a handyman around the place. That way, he has a place to sleep, eat, and would be paid.

And this is coming from a humanist.

Answer 7

They should be able to do that. Unfortunately religious shams have taken over the church and most poor people would be lucky to get a spoon of soup from the church, and even then only if they show five references and a social security card.

Answer 8

No, but they should not feel embarrassed to come to the pastor and explain their situation. I think most people are eager to help once they learn about a rough situation. Wouldn’t you?

Our church does food donations and clothing giveaways. Other churches in our area help with utility bills and housing. People do want to help when they know about the situation.

Actually, a portion of the offering goes to maintain the food programs so those who come in for food are getting a portion of the offering, but in an organized way.

Answer 9

No, there are people in the church or outside of the church, who could help them help themselves. You shouldn't have to steal from the offering plate. God will provide a way.

Answer 10

No, that would be stealing. If you explain to the people at church the condition, more than enough people would be willing to help.
God helps those who help themselves. If you don't ask, no one knows that anyone needs help.
Pride is also a sin. Pride would be the biggest reason someone would not ask. Perhaps proud people get into this circumstance because God is trying to teach them a lesson in pride.

Answer 11

The Bible says that 10 percent of your income, gifts and blessing received goes to the church to take care of the finances of the church like bills, salaries and other expenses that come up. The churches have procedures to help these less fortunate families......God bless.