"Beatitudes Credit Card" Launched

TAIPEI, Taiwan, NOV. 25, 2005 (Zenit.org).- Taking out a line of credit in Taiwan can be an act of charity.

According to Christian Life Weekly Taipei diocesan bulletin, the new Beatitudes Credit Card, launched by Taiwan's bishops, works like any other credit card, but 0.25% of the annual payments go toward charities supported by the episcopal conference.

The card can also be used to make direct donations, reported the Fides news agency.

The purpose of the initiative undertaken with the China Commercial Bank is to expand Catholic charity and social services.

During the presentation of the initiative in Taipei diocesan offices, Cardinal Paul Shan said: "It is open to Catholics and all men and women who support the spirit of the beatitudes and want to help those in difficulty. Anyone can become a 'little angel of the beatitudes' and spread goodness and blessings."