Works of Mercy

God continues to extend His mercy to us. As Christians, we know we can help God in this task by taking care of those around us, particularly those in need. We are to love our brothers and sisters as we love ourselves. Here are some examples how to help others.
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Feed the Hungry

There are countless people around us who need a hot meal, particularly in larger towns. One could contribute to agencies who support Soup Kitchens, or to your parish if they have such programs. But if you are a good cook, you could also just invite a few of the homeless to come for a meal.

Give Drink to the Thirsty

On a hot day, particularly in hot climates such as Florida, if we see people walking along the roads between towns, why not hand them a bottle of water?

To Clothe the naked

In modern-day society, you won't find many people walking around who are naked. There are other ways to be "naked," that is, to be blind to God's love and teaching. Help people who are hungering for the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Visiting Prisoners

Prisoners are often the outcast of society. Few care about them. They are locked away and are very lonely. Although we recognize the need for prisons, inmates need to hear God's Word too. There is a tremendous opportunity for people who can pray with others, in Prison Ministry.

Sheltering the Homeless

Opening one's home for the homeless carries with it certain risks these days. There are a few organization that are set up to care for the homeless on a cold night. One might contribute to those, but also, help the homeless by prayer and action. Today, more and more of the homeless are those who have fallen on hard times. Lost their jobs... and everything. Open your homes...

Visit the Sick

When have you last been in a hospital? There are many older patients who have no one to talk to. Or a nursing home? If you are a Eucharistic Minister in your Catholic parish, one could visit the sick on a regular basis while bringing them the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. Or, check with the local nursing association or hospital auxiliary staffer to see if any patient is in need or a visit, a helping hand.

Bury the Dead

When Jesus lived on earth, there was a great need to bury the dead. Nowadays in the 21st Century, Funeral Homes and Services arrange burials. Still, anyone wishing to participate in this act of mercy could join a parish's Bereavement ministry or sing with a choir at Funerals.

Admonish the Sinner

In convents and monasteries, Religious Rules point out the need for "Fraternal Correc-tion." If you see anyone directly commit an act which goes against the love of Jesus Christ, and if you are in a position to speak to that person, that is a great work of mercy.

Instruct the Ignorant

Even these days there are many who are ignorant of Scripture and Moral Law. You can help to enlighten, to teach and educate. Participation in a Church's Bible Study program is a good way to fulfill this needed work of mercy. But also on the secular level, if you know another language, for example, you could teach people.

Comforting the Sorrowful

There is much anguish these days where so many people suffer from life-threatening physical conditions. Husbands lose wives due to cancer, wives lose husbands, sons or daughters through this and other terminal diseases. Be on hand, therefore, to comfort the sorrowing. It means a lot to a grieving person to have a shoulder to lean on.

Forgive all injuries

Don't carry grudges. And, don't judge others. Leave the judging to God. More harm is done by unforgiveness that festers months, years, decades, than almost anything else. So if you find yourself in such a situation, pray for the grace to disregard whose fault it was... and just forgive the other person as well as yourself!

Pray for your brothers and sisters

Our brothers and sisters are not only blood-related, but people who are a part of our extended Church family: the Body of Christ. Daily keep them in your prayers. Pray for their well-being, healing if they are sick in spiritual, mental or physical ways. Pray for people you work with on a job, employment, and those you worship with in your church. And most of all, pray for peace among them.