What are Works of Mercy? How do we do them?

by Admin · March 1, 2016

Pope Francis’ voice echoed in the atrium of St Peter’s basilica: “Open the gates of justice” , thereby beginning the Year of Mercy. The faithful have been asked to do works of mercy during this time as we are called to become bearers of Christ.

Dating back to the 1100s, the corporal and spiritual works of mercy are a means of practising a living faith. Matthew tells us “let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven”.

Spiritual works of Mercy

Counsel the Doubtful

Pope Francis says in The Joy of the Gospel: “Goodness always tends to spread. If we wish to live a dignified and fulfilling life, we have to reach out to others and seek their good.” In this instance, be a good listener. Pray for wisdom and courage when helping others with their problems. Many times, though, simply genuine concern and a willing ear are all that is required.

Instruct the Ignorant

‘A Church which ‘goes forth’ is a Church whose doors are open. Going out to others in order to reach the fringes of humanity does not mean rushing out aimlessly into the world” (The Joy of the Gospel). Be ready to share your faith. Be ready to point others to resources which they can use to answer their questions. And always make sure you have the correct facts—simply reciting something you learned as a child is not sufficient and may in fact cause harm.

Convert the sinners

The best way to accomplish this work is by example. A Christian life lived honestly and joyfully is the greatest evangelisation tool that we have.

Comfort the Sorrowful

Comforting our loved ones during times of sorrow may come naturally but stepping our of our comfort zones and offering comfort to people we don’t know well may not.

A migrant child is covered with a blanket as he and other refugees and migrants wait to cross the Greek-Macedonian border near the village of Idomeni, Greece. (CNS photo/Alexandros Avramidis, Reuters)

We may not be able to fix any of the problems but again a listening ear and practical help will go a long way to ease someone’s suffering.

Forgive Offences Willingly

Even though it seems so hard to forgive, pardoning others is a powerful grace placed in “our fragile hands to attain serenity of heart. To let go of anger, wrath, violence, and revenge are necessary conditions to living joyfully”, the pope said as part of his World Youth Day message.

We need to forgive others because we have been forgiven—God extends his mercy and forgiveness to us at all times, so we are not in a position to withhold it from others.

Bear Wrongs Patiently

‘Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you” (Lk 6:27-28). This does not mean to stand by and accept evil, it means to not enter a cycle of revenge or allow yourself to be consumed by hatred.

Many people act thoughtlessly, perhaps even you, so don’t be quick to judge someone’s motives.

Pray for the Living and the Dead

The pope said of prayer: “It is opening the door to the Lord, so that he can do something. If we close the door, God can do nothing!

“We must pray to Jesus to get to know him better.”

Our Lord may not answer straight away or he may say “wait” or “that is not my will” but either way your prayers for yourself and others are always heard.

For the Year of Mercy the pope suggested we pray: “Lord, I am a sinner. Come with your mercy.” This is beautiful prayer and it’s very easy to say every day.

Part 2 – Corporal Works of Mercy