1
Introduction
e spiritual and corporal works of mercy hold a special place in the tradition of Roman Catholicism.
Today,
however, we need to consider a way to avoid the dualism suggested in their naming as if body and spirit were
not integrated in...
More
1
Introduction
e spiritual and corporal works of mercy hold a special place in the tradition of Roman Catholicism.
Today,
however, we need to consider a way to avoid the dualism suggested in their naming as if body and spirit were
not integrated in one person.
ere are only works of mercy responding to persons whose needs are embodied.
Persons hunger for food to nourish mind and spirit as well as body.
Persons seek healing of bodily wounds which
a ect the spirit and spiritual wounds which a ect the body.
We need forgiveness and admonition as well as water
to quench our thirst.
While garments clothe the nakedness of our body, we often also need comfort and counsel
to clothe our naked spirits.
As we re ect together on these spiritual works of mercy, let us stretch to embrace the
whole person in his/her need.
From the Documents of the Sisters of Mercy
By the vow of service
we commit ourselves
to exercise the spiritual and
corporal works of mercy
revealed to u
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