If Cornelius had given money to a religious institution, leaders all over the world would be preaching about him. But his recorded acts in the Bible are for something else....

He gave to the people. He feared God and prayed always.... and gave alms. There is no mention of him giving "tithes". So church leaders will usually not preach about him. Greedy pastors don't want competition. Giving to the poor could be seen as competition to their own fundraising efforts.

God honored Cornelius by sending him an angel.... to his house! The angel was not sent to a church building. And God instructed one of his chief apostles to visit Cornelius. Peter, the name the Catholic church likes to throw around as if they have some claim on him, was sent to Cornelius **at his house.** Peter was also at a house when he received a vision from God instructing him to visit Cornelius. No religious man-made building was involved in this blessing.

This example shows how God can recognize those who belong to him: They fear God, pray always, and help the poor... that is: they give alms.

Beware of religious leaders who are already rich in worldly goods that preach God will bless you for giving to them. If you want to gain favor with God, give to the poor. Cornelius did this and God sent him an angel and chief apostle and even received the Holy Ghost.... all at his house.

Acts, chapter 10