Priests in Argentina from the Diocese of Mar del Plata are supported by the faithful through Mass stipends, a tradition used to show appreciation for their ministry. This involves asking a priest to celebrate Mass for a specific intention in return for a financial contribution. Far from «paying» for a Mass, this is an expression of gratitude that provides indispensable support in a country suffering from severe economic crisis and rampant inflation.
Supporting Priests in Argentina
ACN helps thousands of priests globally every year by passing on Mass stipends. Among the recipients are 16 priests from the Diocese of Mar del Plata who work in the most impoverished parishes and celebrate Mass for the intentions of their benefactors.
Father Gonzalo Domench, a priest serving on the outskirts of Necochea, expressed his gratitude for this regular support:
“The parish that God has entrusted to me as its priest is a community on the outskirts of the town of Necochea. It is deeply marked by the world of suffering, not only on account of the poverty and inequality, and also because the duties of our ministry include the town hospital and the cemetery. As their priest I endeavour to encourage, guide and accompany the people in every way”.
For Father Gonzalo, the stipends represent a practical lifeline for his future and well-being:
“Your Mass stipends make it possible to cover the cost of our Social Security and pensions contributions, which would be quite impossible without your help. And so I hasten to thank you for thinking about us and giving us the chance to pray for your intentions. It does us a great deal of good to know that we are not alone”.
This spiritual and financial exchange ensures that priests in difficult missions do not feel isolated, as they intercede for those who hold them in their hearts.
