Editor’s Note: The Catholic Star Herald spoke with John Napolitano, a financial planner who is also a parishioner of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish Shrine in Lindenwold, about using one’s finances to help the community – whether locally, nationally or abroad.
Catholic Star Herald: In your experience, is there an intersection between faith and finance?
John Napolitano: Yes, I think having strong faith and finances both require discipline. You cannot throw either to the wayside; rather, it’s best to continually practice and review both. Faith and finance can be tied together, too, by using financial wellness for the greater good.
CSH: How can a person budget in tithing or giving to charity – whether on a fixed budget or no budget?
Napolitano: Take the time to go through your expenses to see where you may be able to reposition some of the money you are spending. Of course, we all have some mandatory fixed expenses, but are there areas we could cut back on spending on ourselves in order to give to others? If we have the capability, committing to a plan, take action! Perhaps have a separate account strictly for charity that you have set contributions to. Similar to your retirement accounts, you will not even notice the money going in – and after some time, you will have a meaningful amount to give. Start with what you can – getting started is the hardest part!
CSH: What are some budgeting tools you recommend for people or businesses who want to help their communities?
Napolitano: There are plenty of free expense/budget worksheets available online. Going through a budgeting exercise on your own or with a professional will help. Review your overall financial picture, as well. For example, if I have three buckets of money, which one would be the most efficient/practical to pull from to help others?
CSH: How can one be financial secure without making money an idol?
Napolitano: I personally view having financial security as a way to live comfortably and empower myself to do the things I am passionate about. Reminding ourselves that money is not the goal, but rather a tool to make a positive impact on those around us and in our community, will help us stay grounded.
CSH: How can a person do (financially) well while also doing good?
Napolitano: Having balance is key. It is easy to get caught up in our careers, businesses, investments, etc., but remembering to also focus on our faith and serving others and not only on things that help us make money will ensure we keep good works at the forefront. Also, making sure the ways in which we are making money align with doing good, i.e. are you being ethical, honest, and a good Christian through the work that you are doing to become financially well? Lastly, again just remembering to use your financial position as a tool to help others rather than for greed will always be important. It is a good exercise to ask ourselves, “Why am I striving to do financially well?”
CSH: Have you seen any examples of people getting creative to help others when they themselves might not have the money?
Napolitano: I think volunteering is a priceless act that we can all partake in. I remember completing service hours and volunteering as a student in Catholic schools growing up. Time is something that we can all give to help others, even if money is not. Whether it is helping make sandwiches at a food drive or doing chores for those less fortunate, these can make the same impact as a monetary donation.
John Napolitano is with Oak Financial Partners, LLC, in Cherry Hill. He is also an alumnus of Paul VI High School, Haddonfield, and Saint John Paul II Regional School, Stratford.
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