The Works of Mercy are vital practices in Catholic life, showing how we can serve others both physically and spiritually. But what exactly are they, and why do they matter to us as Catholics?
- What Are the Works of Mercy?
- Corporal Works of Mercy
- Spiritual Works of Mercy
- Why They Matter
- An Example of Living out the Works of Mercy
- How to Practice the Works of Mercy
- Reflect and Act
- Additional Resources
What Are the Works of Mercy?
Corporal Works of Mercy address physical needs:
- Feed the hungry: Provide food to those in need.
- Give drink to the thirsty: Offer water to the parched.
- Clothe the naked: Donate clothes.
- Shelter the homeless: Offer a place to stay.
- Visit the imprisoned: Spend time with those in prison.
- Care for the sick: Attend to those who are ill.
- Bury the dead: Ensure the deceased are laid to rest.
Spiritual Works of Mercy address emotional and spiritual needs:
- Instruct the ignorant: Teach those who lack knowledge.
- Counsel the doubtful: Offer guidance to the uncertain.
- Admonish the sinner: Encourage repentance gently.
- Bear wrongs patiently: Endure wrongs without retaliation.
- Forgive willingly: Let go of grudges.
- Comfort the afflicted: Support those who are suffering.
- Pray for the living and the dead: Intercede through prayer.
Why They Matter
In Matthew 25:31–46, Jesus teaches that serving those in need is equivalent to serving Him. “Whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me” (Mt 25:40). Because of this teaching, Catholic tradition adopted the Works of Mercy.
An Example of Living out the Works of Mercy
Mother Teresa’s work in Calcutta is a powerful example. She chose to remain in the city’s harsh conditions to serve the poorest of the poor, seeing Jesus in each person she helped. Her life was a direct living out of the Works of Mercy.
But remember, we don’t all have to live out like this. We all have opportunities every single day in different ways to live them out.
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How to Practice the Works of Mercy in Your Daily Life
So, what are the ways we can incorporate these acts into your daily life? Here are some quick ideas:
- Feed and clothe those in need: Donate to your local charity, food bank, or a charity of your choice.
- Offer shelter and support: This may seem like a big commitment, but it could be something as small as offering to pay for lunch for a friend who is struggling, or even opening your home to a lonely friend or neighbor who needs some company.
- Visit and care for the sick: Someone doesn’t need to be physically sick to be considered “sick.” Have a friend in need? Make sure you’re there for your friends and family, not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually.
- Teach, guide, and forgive others: Be an example of a Christian to those around you – be kind, open, and don’t take life too seriously.
- Comfort and pray for those who are suffering: Take a few minutes throughout your day to say a prayer for those you love.
Reflect and Act
Look for opportunities around you to practice these works. They not only help those in need but also deepen your relationship with Jesus.
Want some more ideas? Check out our master list of ideas for how to live out the corporal works of mercy here!
Additional Resources
Looking to learn more about Catholic teaching? Check out some of our great posts: How Do You Become A Saint? Cannonization 101 and Why Do Catholics Go to Adoration?
For even more great Catholic resources, check out our podcast, which features talks from our SEEK conference, and our YouTube channel for videos and more!
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