Issue 1.11 - July 7, 2025
Formation materials are a powerful way to inspire your community to explore the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy—helping them not only learn more, but also recognize how they may already be living them out or how to integrate them more intentionally into daily life. This week, let’s highlight some of the resources available to support that journey.
ACCORDING TO THE CATECHISM
According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church #2447, the Works of Mercy are charitable actions by which we come to the aid of our neighbor in his or her spiritual and bodily necessities. 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. 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.
Corporal Works of Mercy:
Feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, shelter the homeless, visit the sick, visit the imprisoned, and bury the dead.
Spiritual Works of Mercy:
Teach others about God and the Faith, counsel the doubtful, encourage reconciliation with God and others, bear wrongs patiently, forgive offenses willingly, comfort the afflicted, pray for the living and the dead.
Corporal Works of Mercy:
Feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, shelter the homeless, visit the sick, visit the imprisoned, and bury the dead.
Spiritual Works of Mercy:
Teach others about God and the Faith, counsel the doubtful, encourage reconciliation with God and others, bear wrongs patiently, forgive offenses willingly, comfort the afflicted, pray for the living and the dead.
RESOURCES
- Four-part formation series: The goal of this homily series is to inspire people to embrace a life of mercy (Mt. 25)
- Sample questions: Can be used in conjunction with the formation series to further discuss the readings and homily message.
- List of Bible readings: The chosen readings lend themselves to formation on the Works of Mercy.
- Prayers
- Intercessions
- Graphics and other supporting materials
Mercy is the force that reawakens us to new life and instills in us the courage to look to the future with Hope.
Pope Francis
MERCY TIP OF THE WEEK
Incorporate simple calls to action at the end of each homily to help parishioners connect with service events or take a step in living a life of mercy.
MERCY IN THE WORKPLACE
The workplace offers unique opportunities for works of mercy! Here are ways to incorporate the initiative:
Workplace Mercy Ideas:
- Develop Mercy "challenges" for employee groups
- Incorporate mercy or kindness into business meetings and practices
- Offer ideas for workplace collections or food drives
- Mentor a new employee or colleague
- Share your lunch with someone who forgot theirs
- Offer to drive a coworker who's car broke down
- Pray for your colleagues, clients, and customers by name
