The church and other Institutions

What should the attitude of church leaders and the laity be, with regard to other institutions in the world? For instance, if a church parishioner is in need, and cannot take care of himself--what should the church do about this? The answer is, it really depends. There is no one "silver bullet" solution, for all situations.

Here is the way the church should prioritize such a case. First, and foremost, the best possible care and treatment, from a spiritual and a physical point of view, must be of paramount concern. Is the parishioner sick, disabled, unable to take care of himself, etc.? If so, then he is very likely going to need "professional" care--care that typically will go beyond the immediate pale of the expertise and availability of his fellow church members.

Once this consideration is fulfilled, the next priority, all things being equal, would be to get the person who is in need into a home of those who would love him, (since he could not take care of himself). If this can be effected through immediate and/or distant family, then this is best. If not, then the needy person's fellow church members would be next in line, (from an ideal point of view).

But, if neither of these arrangements is possible, is there anything inherently wrong, or sinful, in church people living in professional care facilities, viz. retirement centers, nursing homes, etc.? The answer is, "no." There are times when this decision is actually the best, and most loving alternative.

There is nothing "magical," nor mandated (in scripture), prescribing that church people be cared for *only* by other church people, (exclusively). This is a desirable and ideal goal, in many cases; but it is not necessary, nor demanded (by God).