In an open letter read at all services on 29 September, Bishop Terence Finlay, Bishop of Toronto, asked Churches to set up a "Community Tax Redirection Fund" to help those affected by the provincial government cutbacks.
In his letter, Bishop Finlay said parishioners could donate part of all of the extra money they have received as a result of the government's recent income tax cuts. "Considering the gains many of us will enjoy from our tax reductions, it seems appropriate to provide a way for individuals to channel their benefits to those less fortunate in their community," he said.
He said the establishment of a fund is a suggestion and not a directive. He also said it is not intended to be a burden on parishioners with fixed incomes. He urged parish advisory boards to discuss the proposal at their next meeting.
Article from: Diocese of Toronto