Why must we offer alms to every passing beggar, without inquiring into his merits, and even when we know that he is undeserving? Apart from the fact that the man who gives is spiritually enriched, while whoever closes his heart and purse robs himself - apart from this, if we refuse alms, especially near church doors, we do great harm to the beggar, inciting him to anger, killing his faith, stirring up his hatred of the rich, the satiated, the pious.
+Fr. Alexander Elchaninov, from The Diary of a Russian Priest
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