[10] And I am giving counsel in this matter, for it is appropriate for you who began not only to act but to act willingly last year: [11] complete it now, so that your eager willingness may be matched by your completion of it out of what you have. [12] For if the eagerness is there, it is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have; [13] not that others should have relief while you are burdened, but that as a matter of equality [14] your surplus at the present time should supply their needs, so that their surplus may also supply your needs, that there may be equality. [15] As it is written: "Whoever had much did not have more, and whoever had little did not have less."
(CCC 1351) From the very beginning Christians have brought, along with the bread and wine for the Eucharist, gifts to share with those in need. This custom of the collection, ever appropriate, is inspired by the example of Christ who became poor to make us rich (Cf. 1 Cor 16:1; 2 Cor 8:9): Those who are well off, and who are also willing, give as each chooses. What is gathered is given to him who presides to assist orphans and widows, those whom illness or any other cause has deprived of resources, prisoners, immigrants and, in a word, all who are in need (St. Justin, Apol. 1, 67: PG 6, 429). (CCC 2407) In economic matters, respect for human dignity requires the practice of the virtue of temperance, so as to moderate attachment to this world's goods; the practice of the virtue of justice, to preserve our neighbor's rights and render him what is his due; and the practice of solidarity, in accordance with the golden rule and in keeping with the generosity of the Lord, who "though he was rich, yet for your sake… became poor so that by his poverty, you might become rich" (2 Cor 8:9).
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