Catholic Lists: Spiritual Works of Mercy

Through the centuries, catechists (those who teach the Faith) have found much value in relaying important aspects of the Catholic faith in easily-learned groupings and lists. This post is the newest in a series of posts which present some of the better-known teachings and beliefs of our Catholic faith, in list form.

These are seven practices of spiritual charity towards our neighbor. Along with practicing the "corporal works of mercy" (i.e. physical actions), these are practical actions which are aimed at relieving spiritual distress for, as Christians, we cannot neglect serving both spirit and body. It should be noted that not everyone is capable of performing the first three - one must have the knowledge (and usually training) to do so. But the last four can be performed by anyone.

St. Maximilian Kolbe comforted his fellow prisoners in
the starvation cell of a Nazi concentration camp.

1. Admonish the sinner.

2. Instruct the ignorant.

3. Counsel the doubtful.

4. Comfort the sorrowful.

5. Bear wrongs patiently.

6. Forgive injuries.

7. Pray for the living and the dead.

Learn them. Live them. Emmulate Christ.