Philanthropy The ofPhilanthropy

The word philanthropy comes from two Greek words – philos meaning to love, and anthropos, meaning humankind. So, philanthropy can accurately be defined as the love of humanity and a philanthropist as one who acts out of love for humankind.

In our modern usage of the word philanthropy, we most often associate it with great wealth We read about wealthy people- millionaires and billionaires - who give enormous amounts of money to various charitable causes But if our perspective on philanthropy is limited to material wealth, it is too narrow Nothing in the etymology of the word suggests that wealth is a criterion To require it would exclude those of us who are not rich from ever being recognized as philanthropists.

In the Gospels of both Mark and Luke, the Bible records the story of a poor widow who joined the line of worshippers in the temple to offer her meager donation. All she had in the world amounted to two small coins, together worth less than a penny. Yet she sacrificially gave those two coins to show her love of God and God’s people. That poor widow was no Warren Buffett, but she was, nonetheless, a great philanthropist.

While philanthropy is not defined by the amount of money given, it merits emphasis that Philanthropy does not require money at all If that is our view of philanthropy, we don’t have the complete picture In fact, there is nothing in the etymology of the word that limits philanthropy to gifts of money. Philanthropy is not an outcome of any amount of money. Rather, it emanates from a loving heart.

The philanthropic heart embraces the opportunity to help others by giving its time, talents, knowledge and skills in the service of others. Those endowed with a philanthropic heart give whatever they must to aid or comfort someone else: an encouraging word, a robust hug, or a warm smile. Those who appreciate the true meaning of philanthropy simply give of themselves, of who they are to make life better for someone else.

What a blessing it is to be a part of a beloved sisterhood, which puts philanthropy in action Let us resolve to be philanthropists of the highest order, possessed of hearts of great compassion and selflessness and motivated by love and “service to all mankind”. Let us be known for our love of humanity – the love we share with those who need us. In all of our endeavors, may we be the heart of philanthropy.

by Soror Alma Forte, Chaplain, Mu Alpha Omega Chapter, Midland, Michigan