Działalność dobroczynna zakonów i zgromadzeń zakonnych w Wilnie w końcu XVIII i pierwszej połowie XIX wieku
ENUntil the end of the 18th century, charitable operations in Vilnius remained the domain of the Catholic Church, and they were founded on the moral obligation to love one's neighbor. The state did not contribute financially to social welfare, although many charitable institutions were initiated by the authorities. Hospital shelters, the main type of organizations helping the needy, were financed mostly from secular trusts as well as church grants and church collections. Financial support for charity was believed to increase the donor's chances of salvation. In the 15th to the 17th century, the main focus was on eliciting prayer support from the poor who were under obligation to attend mass honoring the sponsors. The prevention of poverty was of secondary importance. In most cases, charity institutions were founded in response to growing social need. Charity groups were formed in times of particular hardship for the people of Vilnius, such as epidemics and famines. Most welfare institutions were seated in monasteries and church facilities. The monks were responsible for administering shelters and caring for their beneficiaries.
