What do we value?

Years ago, on a retreat, they asked us to look at our checkbook.  What did we write our checks to?  They said to what we write our checks to will indicate what we value.  We rarely use checks anymore and many people look at their credit card bill without looking where the charges were made.  We just make a payment.  It is true, at least to a certain extent, that where we spend our money is an indication of what we value.  The average Catholic gives 1.5% of their income to the Catholic Church.  The average Lutheran gives 3%.  The Fundamentalists or Evangelical will give 10%, before taxes.  Imagine what we would be able to do as far as education, youth ministry, music, or anything else if the average Catholic in our parish were to give 3%.  Our income would double.  What do you value?  How much do you value the ministry that St. Joseph the Worker provides for you and your family? Fr. Mike