What are the Works of Mercy?

The Works of Mercy are a traditional ennumeration of the physical and spiritual acts that a Christian must undertake to fulfil their duty to their neighbour.

The physical aspects, known as the Corporal Works of Mercy, are derived from the Parable of the sheep and goats in Matthew 25 with the exception of burying the dead which was added to raise the number to seven. It is generally thought to have been used because of the high regard placed on this service in the Book of Tobit (1:17-19).

The origin of the Spiritual Works of Mercy is less certain but seems to have been considered the task of those in religious life or holy orders.

The Corporal Works of Mercy

• To feed the hungry
• To give drink to the thirsty.
• To clothe the naked.
• To visit the prisoner.
• To shelter the homeless.
• To visit the sick.
• To bury the dead.

The Spiritual Works of Mercy

• To admonish sinners.
• To instruct the ignorant.
• To counsel the doubtful.
• To comfort the sorrowful.
• To bear wrongs patiently.
• To forgive all injuries.
• To pray for the living and the dead.

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