A generous intercourse of charity united the most distant…
““A generous intercourse of charity united the most distant provinces, and the smaller congregations were cheerfully assisted by the alms of their more opulent brethren. Such an institution, which paid less regard to the merit than to the distress of the object, very materially conduced to the progress of Christianity. The Pagans, who were actuated by a sense of humanity, while they derided the doctrines, acknowledged the benevolence of the new sect. The prospect of immediate relief and of future protection allured into its hospitable bosom many of those unhappy persons whom the neglect of the world would have abandonned to the miseries of want, of sickness, and of old age. There is some reason likewise to believe, that great numbers of infants, who, according to the inhuman practice of the times, had been exposed by their parents, were frequently rescued from death, baptised, educated, and maintained by the piety of the Christians, and at the expense of the public treasure.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Charitable aid across regions helped Christianity grow, attracting even non‑believers seeking relief from poverty and illness.
In simple terms: Charity spread Christianity and helped the poor.
Key Takeaway
Support charitable networks to aid those in need.
Themes
charity
religion
social welfare
community
compassion
Mood
hopeful
compassionate
pragmatic
Type
historical
social
When to use this quote
- urban poor relief
- orphan care
- elderly support
- health crises
- disaster response
Key Concepts
philanthropy
social cohesion
interfaith relations
Questions to Reflect On
- How can aid be given without fostering reliance?
- What motivates non‑believers to accept help?
A Different Perspective
May create dependency or undermine local initiatives.