What is ‘charity’? This word was derived from the Latin word ‘caritas’ - and it means love.

We all know the phrase “Deus Caritas Est”, which when translated means “God is Love”.

But in our everyday life, what is charity? How does it manifest itself? How do we live charity?

Charity is the love that God puts in our hearts every day. It is the love that we live in our everyday life. That love that we give to others every day. The love we have for our partner, for children, even for the children who are not born, the love for ourselves, the love for one’s neighbour, the love for colleagues and for those who have offended or betrayed us.

The heart cannot stop loving. Charity is the voice of the heart and it is the strength that is within us. Charity is the love that we give to others.

That’s why St Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 13:  “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, and it keeps no record of wrongs.  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres.” 

There are many ways to donate, and this gift is the symbol of love that is in your heart.

Jum il-Karitá - today, 18 May - is a day dedicated to charity.

Be generous because your gift helps someone else to smile … because your gift is a symbol of your love. Thank you.

Dr Maria Adele Farrugia

Research and Advocacy Officer

Caritas Malta – Diaconia Unit