On Distributing Alms

This Sunday's reading from Acts 4:32-35 illustrates how the early Church handled the needy in their ranks,

Now the whole group of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common. With great power the apostles gave their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. There was not a needy person among them, for as many as owned lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold. They laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need.

Recall that in Acts 2:44-47 we learned that the believers still had houses,

All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home (or from house to house) and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.

In our church there is a small box in an inconspicuous place with the word "Alms" written on it. We also have a "Rector's discretionary fund" line item in our books. We use this mostly for non-members who approach the rector with specific needs. Our rector is usually quite careful about screening and dealing with these people, but keeping track of the money has been an issue raised by our Bishop. I can see how a ten or a twenty could easily be "misplaced". One option would be to stop handing out cash to the needy and instead write a check. Most of the needy would use a check cashing company that would take a substantial cut. Another option would be to stop handing out money and just offer food and clothing from our food bank and clothes closet. The last option would be to limit cash hand outs and to record the names of those to whom the alms are given. We are planning on the third option, and we shall make the alms box more visible.