Thank you for your generosity to the Discretionary Fund. I write an average of 7 checks a month. As of Oct 31, 2017, I have distributed 73 checks totaling $6,079.22, an average of $80 per check. These funds have typically helped people with utility related expenses and bills and rental needs. Most of the people assisted live in Caroline and Essex counties. The loose offering of the second Sunday of each Sunday of each month is given to the Discretionary fund. You can also make a separate donation, tax deductible, to this fund at any time. The Discretionary Fund is a vital part of St. Peter’s Outreach.
The Discretionary fund has a long history going back to the early church. Our fund is based on the Episcopal church canons, specifically Canon III. III.9 5(b)(6) called "almoners fund." “The Alms and Contributions, not otherwise specifically designated, at the Administration of the Holy Communion on one Sunday in each calendar month, and other offerings for the poor, shall be deposited with the Rector or Priest-in-Charge or with such Church officer as the Rector or Priest-in-Charge shall appoint to be applied to such pious and charitable uses as the Rector or Priest-in-Charge shall determine."
The discretionary funds of a rector are to be used for aid to the poor and other purposes that the rector considers “pious and charitable.” Catherine uses this fund only to assist people in need