Works of Mercy

The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us that “the works of mercy are charitable actions by which we come to the aid of our neighbor in his spiritual and bodily necessities,” adding that “it is undoubtedly an act of love…by which one responds here and now to a real and impelling need.” 

The Corporal Works of Mercy are oriented toward the body; the Spiritual Works toward the soul.

• Feed the hungry. Share what you have with those who need it. Donate to food banks, nonprofits or another charity of your choice. 

• Give drink to the thirsty. Share your joy and hope with those whose lives are dry and lonely. 

• Clothe the naked. Donate items to charities. Also, stand up for the most weak and vulnerable. 

• Shelter the homeless. Practice hospitality. Open your home & heart to someone in need. Reach out to the unloved & unpopular, help the refugee & the migrant. 

• Visit the imprisoned. Help inmates, and those confined by fear and grief. 

• Care for the sick. Be there for people who need you, showing special concern for those who are ill or feel abandoned. We can have spiritual illness as well as physical problems. 

• Bury the dead. Remember with love and respect those who are separated by distance or death. 

• Counsel the doubtful. Be a good listener, and let others know how good they are. 

• Instruct the ignorant. Share your knowledge and experience – gently. 

• Admonish sinners. Challenge what you know is wrong. 

• Comfort the sorrowful. Be someone to lean on in times of hurt and sadness. 

• Forgive injuries. Don’t carry a grudge, and go easy on yourself. 

• Bear wrongs patiently. Give others and yourself room to make mistakes. 

• Pray for the living and the dead. When you talk to God, include the entire human family.