ACC ~ John 13 v29

THE FIRST INSTANCE OF A CHURCH TREASURY

AUGUSTINE: Our Lord then had a money box in which he kept the offerings of the faithful to supply either the wants of his own followers or the poor. This is where the custom of the church having money was first introduced. Our Lord shows that his commandment not to think about tomorrow does not mean that the saints should never save money but that they should not neglect the service of God for it or let the fear of want tempt them to injustice. TRACTATES ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 62.5. [1]

[1] NPNF 1 7:314**; CCL 36:485. See further comment on Judas as treasurer in Jn 12:4-6. This passage was also featured in the medieval debate between the Franciscans and the pope over the monastic poverty that William of Ockham championed in Opus Nonaginta Dierum.

MONEY PROVIDED BY FEMALE DISCIPLES

CHRYSOSTOM: None of the disciples contributed this money, but it is hinted that it was certain female disciples who, it is said, ministered to him of their means. … But how was it that he, who forbade purses, and staff and money, carried bags for the relief of the poor? It was to show you that even the very poor, those who are crucified to this world, ought to attend to this duty. He did many things in order to instruct us in our duty. HOMILIES ON THE GOSPEL OF JOHN 72.3. [1]

[1] NPNF 1 14:265**.