Define and explain "Benevolence" - esp as used in Christian churches

[TheNinja]

I have the task of giving a 30 second explanation/definition of what "benevolence" means in the church. If you go to a Christian church you have probably read/heard "offerings will be used for the benevolence fund this week". But what does this mean to you?
I was thinking about using: "The dictionary defines benevolence as good will; and act of kindness; charitableness; and love of mankind, accompanied with a desire to promote their happiness. The main idea we can gather from the term benevolence is that it is something that we do or give to others who are in need in an effort to provide them with happiness.......(and so on down that line)".

 

[Viper GTS]

It's usually not the something that you do, but the spirit that it's done in.

Benevolent is an adjective, the acts you're describing could be described as benevolent acts, but not benevolence.

Viper GTS

 

[FoBoT]

yup, you got it

 

[Ameesh]

you quoted yourself in your own sig?

 

[GagHalfrunt]

These days "benevolence" means offering generous settlements to the families of kids who were abused.

 

[glen]

That typically means it will go a a descretionary fund that the Preist will use as he see it fit, like when homless folks coem to the church for hell, famillies have troubles, etc... spontanious events that are not budgeted for.