The Corporal Works of Mercy

The Corporal Works of Mercy are found in the teachings of Jesus and give us a model for how we should treat
all others, as if they were Christ in disguise. They "are charitable actions by which we help our neighbors in their
bodily needs" (USCCA). They respond to the basic needs of humanity as we journey together through this life.

The seven Corporal Works of Mercy are listed below. After each work of mercy there are also suggestions and
words of advice for living them out in our daily lives. Have your own suggestions? Let us know @USCCB and
use the hashtag #mercyinmotion.

F E E D T H E H UNG RY

There are many people in this world who go without food. When so much of our food goes to waste, consider
how good stewardship practices of your own food habits can benefit others who do not have those same

resources.
 Having delicious food at Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner? Donate to a Thanksgiving or Christmas food drive so
everyone can have something to eat.
 Research, identify and contribute financially to organizations that serve the hungry.
 The next time you make a recipe that can be easily frozen, make a double batch and donate one to your local food
pantry or soup kitchen.
 Try not to purchase more food than you are able to eat. If you notice that you end up throwing groceries away each
week, purchasing less groceries would eliminate waste and allow you to donate the savings to those in need.

G IVE DRINK T O T H E T H IRST Y

Many of our brothers and sisters in Christ do not have access to clean water and suffer from the lack of this basic
necessity. We should support the efforts of those working towards greater accessibility of this essential
resource.
 We take it for granted that we have access to clean water. Donate. . . to help build wells for water for those in need
 Organize a group of children involved on a sports team (e.g. soccer) or a summer camp. Invite them to collect bottled
water to distribute at a shelter for families. If parents can be involved, ask them to accompany their children in
delivering the water to the families.
 Do the same for youth and young adult groups.
 Make an effort not to waste water. Remembering to turn off the water faucet when you are brushing your teeth or
washing dishes can help, especially in regions suffering from drought.

SH E L T E R T H E H O M E L E SS
 There are many circumstances that could lead to someone becoming a person
without a home. Christ encourages us to go out and meet those without homes, affirming their worth and helping
them seek a resolution to the challenges they face.
 See if your parish or diocese is involved with a local homeless shelter and volunteer some time.
 Donate time or money to organizations that build homes for those who need shelter.
 Many homeless shelters need warm blankets for their beds. If you can knit or sew that would be an extra loving gift.
 There are millions of children and families who are on the move, fleeing from war, illness, hunger and impossible
living conditions, and searching for peace and safety. Engage parish groups of children, youth, young adults, and
families in doing some research on the causes and challenges that these families face to survive. Contact Catholic
Social Services, or diocesan offices of peace and justice for help with your research. Seek ways to provide shelter for
the homeless locally, regionally, nationally or internationally.

VISIT T H E SICK

Those who are sick are often forgotten or avoided. In spite of their illness, these individuals still have much to
offer to those who take the time to visit and comfort them.
 Give blood
 Spend time volunteering at a nursing home – Get creative and make use of your talents (e.g. sing, read, paint, call
Bingo, etc.)!
 Take time on a Saturday to stop and visit with an elderly neighbor.
 Offer to assist caregivers of chronically sick family members on a one-time or periodic basis. Give caregivers time off
from their caregiving responsibilities so they can rest, complete personal chores, or enjoy a relaxing break.
 Next time you make a meal that can be easily frozen, make a double batch and give it to a family in your parish who
has a sick loved one.

VISIT T H E P RISO NE RS

People in prison are still people, made in the image and likeness of God. No matter what someone has done,
they deserve the opportunity to hear the Word of God and find the Truth of the message of Christ.

 See if your parish, or a nearby parish, has a prison ministry and if so, get involved.
 Volunteer to help out or donate to charities that give Christmas presents to children whose parents are in prison.

B URY T H E DE AD

Funerals give us the opportunity to grieve and show others support during difficult times. Through our prayers
and actions during these times we show our respect for life, which is always a gift from God, and comfort to those
who mourn.
 Send a card to someone who has recently lost a loved one. Make your own card and use some of these prayers.
 Visit the cemetery and pray for those you have lost.
 Spend time planning your own funeral mass, read through the Order of Christian Funerals and find our hope in the
Resurrection.

G IVE AL M S T O T H E P O O R

Donate money to organizations that have the ability to provide support and services for those in need. Do
research and find organizations that put people in need first, rather than profit.
 Skip the morning latte and put that money in the collection basket at church.
 Find a charity that is meaningful to you and volunteer your time or donate.
 This Lent, give up eating out at restaurants. Pack you meals and donate the extra money to charities.
 Participate in CRS Rice Bowl. . .

The Spiritual Works of Mercy

The Spiritual Works of Mercy have long been a part of the Christian tradition, appearing in the works of
theologians and spiritual writers throughout history. Just as Jesus attended to the spiritual well-being of those he
ministered to, these Spiritual Works of Mercy guide us to "help our neighbor in their spiritual needs" (USCCA).

The seven Spiritual Works of Mercy are listed below. After each work of mercy there are also suggestions and
words of advice for living them out in our daily lives. Have your own suggestions? Let us know @USCCB using
the hashtag #mercyinmotion!

CO UNSE L ING T H E DO UB T F UL

Everyone has moments of doubt in their faith journey. Nevertheless, we should always remember that Christ is
the Way, the Truth, and the Life and turn to him along our way.
 Listen to counsel and receive instruction, that you may eventually become wise" (Prov 19:20)
 The Cross of Christ "the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than
human strength" (1 Cor 1:25)
 Has someone asked you for advice? Orient your response to Christ, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life
 Follow Christ with the witness of your life so that others may see God's love revealed in your actions
 Accompany a friend who is struggling with believing to join a parish group for service or faith formation, share a book
you found useful in dealing with your friend's faith concern, and worship at Sunday Mass

INST RUCT ING T H E IG NO RANT

Learn about our faith and be open to talking with others about our beliefs. There is always something more to
discover about our faith.
 Go on a service trip or short term mission trip. No time? Donate to support someone on their service trip
 Volunteer to help with religious education programs at your parish
 Invite someone to go to mass with you this weekend
 Know your faith! Read through the USCCA to find out more about the Catholic faith and how to live it

ADM O NISH ING T H E SINNE R

Do not judge, but be supportive in helping others find their way and correct their mistakes. Together we can

learn to walk more closely with Christ.

 In humility we must strive to create a culture that does not accept sin, while realizing that we all fall at times
 Don't judge, but guide others towards the path of salvation (see Mt 7:1-2)
 When you correct someone, don't be arrogant. We are all in need of God's loving correction.
 We should journey together to a deeper understanding of our shared faith
 "Remove the wooden beam from your eye first; then you will see clearly to remove the splinter from your brother's
eye" (Mt 7:5)

CO M F O RT ING T H E SO RRO WF UL

Be open to listening and comforting those who are dealing with grief. Even if we aren't sure of the right words to
say, our presence can make a big difference.
 Lend a listening ear to those going through a tough time
 Make a home cooked meal for a friend who is facing a difficult time
 Write a letter or send a card to someone who is suffering
 A few moments of your day may make a lifetime of difference to someone who is going through a difficult time

F O RG IVING INJURIE S

Forgiving others is difficult at times because we do not have God's limitless mercy and compassion. But Jesus
teaches us that we should forgive as God forgives, relying on him to help us show others the mercy of God
 Let go of grudges
 Saying sorry is something we learn as kids, but how often do we really mean it? Forgiveness transforms hearts and
lives
 Participate in the Sacrament of Penance
 Pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet

B E ARING WRO NG S P AT IE NT L Y

Do not be bitter about wrongs done against you. Place your hope in God so that you can endure the troubles of
this world and face them with a compassionate spirit.
 Frustrated with someone? Step away from the situation, take a few deep breaths, pray the Our Father, asking God for
patience

P RAYING F O R T H E L IVING AND T H E DEAD

Prayer is one of the most powerful ways we can support others. Joining together in prayer for the living and the

dead entrusts us all into God's care.

 Request a mass intention for a friend or family member who is going through a tough time
 Request a mass intention for a friend or family member who has passed away
 Keep your own book of prayer intentions, writing down the names of those who you are keeping in your prayers
 Ask a friend or family member if there is anything you can pray for them about
 Through prayer, entrust your cares and concerns for those around you to God