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The Spiritual Works of Mercy
We all need to build up our spiritual life and develop
good habits. The Church enables us on this mission by providing a list
of charitable works of mercy that help us increase our love of neighbor
and improve the state of our soul.
The Spiritual Works of Mercy are (Catechism
of the Catholic Church - #2447):
* Comfort the Sorrowful. In
a fallen world, there is much sorrow. By taking the time to comfort
those who grieve and suffer, we help them to see God in the world.
* Convert the Sinner. Of course, the Holy Spirit actually does
the converting, but we participate by pointing those we know toward
God.
* Instruct the Ignorant. This assumes that we are not ignorant
– it puts the burden of learning on us, so we can instruct those
who have misconceptions about God.
* Counsel the Doubtful. Love of others starts with concern for
their souls. By helping others have faith, we increase our faith.
* Bear Wrongs Patiently. This is perhaps the toughest issue for
most of us, but it goes directly to Christ: Turn the other cheek.
* Forgive Injuries. Not only must we bear wrongs and injuries,
we must forgive those who inflict them on us. True forgiveness requires
work on our own soul and a solid love of God.
* Pray for the Living and the Dead. This is an easier work and
requires just time – take a minute in your daily prayer to pray
for those who have died and those who struggle for God (or don’t)!
We should all be doing this anyway.
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We, the parishioners of Sacred Heart, wish to embrace all the Spiritual
Works of Mercy (outlined in the left-hand column). In particular, the
Hospitality Committee aims to fulfill the first Spiritual Work of Mercy:
to Comfort the Sorrowful.
Who is the Committee? Every member of our parish family!
What does the Committee do? The Committee plans receptions following
funerals of parishioners. Specifically, we set up the parish hall, bring
and serve food, and clean up afterward.
How will I know when I am needed? One of the people listed in
the Contacts box will call you.
What if I'm not called? Don't wait for an invitation. Get in
touch with one of the contacts, and bring something anyway--your time,
talent, or treasure.
What if I don't cook? You can help in other ways: buy grocery
items (e.g., chips, coffee, buns,); telephone others; set up tables
and chairs; serve; wash dishes; clean up.
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