March 8, 2026 - ""Spiritual Works of Mercy"

Another feature of that article is listing some things that we can do to practice that work of mercy.  I am going to list Emily Simpson’s ideas below, as they may give us some ideas we can put into practice during Lent this year.

 

Counseling the doubtful

· Take time to answer your child’s questions about the Faith.  If you don’t know the answers, research them together.

· Avoid speaking cynically or sarcastically about the Church, its bishops and priests—especially on social media.

· Speak optimistically about God and his plan for you, even in the midst of trials.

 

Instructing the ignorant

· Volunteer as a catechist at your parish.

· Share articles and book reviews about the Catholic Faith on Facebook and Twitter.

· Charitably correct those who say something false about Jesus, the Church, or the human person.

 

Admonishing sinners

· Speak out, with charity, against sinful and unjust practices in the culture.

· Do not vote for political candidates who support abortion and other policies contrary to moral law.

 

Forgiving offenses

· Forgive and pray for those who have hurt you.

· Do not speak ill of others, even when they’ve treated you unjustly.

· Invite family members from whom you have become estranged to gatherings.

 

Comforting the afflicted

· Call or visit a friend who is experiencing difficulties.

· Send a gift or care package to someone who is struggling.

· Write an encouraging note to someone in need of support.

 

Bearing wrongs patiently

· Pray the Litany of Humility.

· Hold your tongue (and don’t honk your horn), the next time someone cuts you off in traffic.

· Don’t defend yourself in social media if others speak ill of you.

 

Praying for the living and the dead

· When frustrated, offended or tempted to anger, pray the “Jesus prayer.”

· Keep a list of people who need prayers close at hand and include them regularly in your prayers.

· Have Masses celebrated for those in need and for departed friends and family.

 

Until next week,

Fr. John