The UPRISE Movement: 14 WORKS OF MERCY

Some of the Catholic 14 Works of Mercy might be new to you or not make sense. Not to worry, though. We’ve made sure to explain what they’re really all about so you can decide which ones you’d like to try and generously share with others.

Each time you fulfill one of these merciful acts of kindness and caring, you can keep track of your Works of Mercy!

Your heart will keep track with a quiet and humble satisfaction knowing you just helped make the world much better, loving your neighbor as yourself.

1. YOU GOTTA EAT, RIGHT?

FEED THE HUNGRY

Not everyone has access to second helpings much less a first!

You can help those who go without food by not wasting it yourself, sharing what you have, donating to a pantry, or volunteering at a food truck or soup kitchen. You get the idea.

2. RAISE YOUR GLASS

GIVE DRINK TO THE THIRSTY

There’s nothing like guzzling down a nice cold glass of water when you’re hot, but while you’re feeling refreshed, think about those who do not have access to clean water or are unable to drink when they are thirsty.

Perhaps you can do something about that in your community or another part of the world, right?

3. STREET WISE & PROUD OF IT

SHELTER THE HOMELESS

People can become homeless for many reasons, especially due to the pandemic, or a loss of job.

Go out and meet them, ask them their name, listen to understand their immediate obstacles. Let them know they matter, help them face their challenges, connect them to services in your community. Give them hope, as well as practical care that keeps them warm or comfortable until they have a roof over their head once again.

4. SMILE & WAVE

VISIT THE SICK

Often those that are sick are avoided, forgotten, or ignored. You know what might make their day?! A visitor!

Please stop by and say hi. Just spend time listening to them. Help them find their strength in your compassion. Your act of mercy will let them know that people really do care about them and they are not alone.

5. GO DIRECTLY TO JAIL & DO NOT PASS GO

VISIT THE IMPRISONED

Yes, it’s not the most glamorous of the acts, but helping a prisoner know he or she is forgiven and not forgotten is pretty powerful stuff.

Now, actually going to jail is something most people try hard to avoid, but you can help in other ways…Try donating to charities that give to kids whose parents are in prison, or serve juvenile offenders, or help someone who may be imprisoned by an addiction to fight their dependency.

6. GET YOUR GRIEVE ON

BURY THE DEAD

Gathering for funerals gives each of us opportunities to support loved ones who are grieving, offering comfort to those that are mourning, and celebrate together a life well-lived!

Simply being there for someone going through a loss offers invaluable companionship, consolation, and care when it is needed the most. Sending a card and saying a prayer for their loved one can go a long way.

7. DON’T LOOK DOWN

GIVE ALMS TO THE POOR

Everywhere you look, there are people in need — people less fortunate than you. Don’t look down upon them or worse, look away — look them in the eyes and offer your help however you can. Skip that latte and rather give what you would have spent n yourself to the poor.

Put yourself in their shoes, and if they don’t have any, give them yours! Seek out organizations that focus on serving and supporting people with life’s basic needs. Look up, don’t look down.

8. FREE ADVICE

COUNSEL THE DOUBTFUL

Everyone has moments of doubt and at times may even question their faith — the struggle is real!

Remain there, still, in these moments.

Share a book, a reflection, a passage, or even one of your own life experiences you think might be helpful. Accompany a friend to Mass or a service. Talk about your beliefs and help them find their way.

The Holy Spirit will be your Guide!

9. ON A MISSION

INSTRUCT THE IGNORANT

When you’re excited about your faith, you’re able to pass on that excitement to others, and that’s pretty cool.

Shared experiences are often the best way to learn together. Mission trips and religious programs are great opportunities to gain knowledge and discover new things about yourself you can offer to others.

10. DO THE RIGHT THING

ADMONISH THE SINNER

Be humble. Don’t judge those who do wrong, just help them see their mistakes with compassion and understanding.

If someone’s heading down a road that could hurt themselves or others, show them a better path!

11. FIX THAT SAD FACE

COMFORT THE SORROWFUL

If you know someone today going through a difficult time, let them know you care about them by lending an ear, making a meal, or sending a card — any little thing that says you’re there for a friend or family member will help turn frowns upside down!

12. STAY CALM & (DON’T) CARRY A GRUDGE

FORGIVE INJURIES

Sure, sometimes it’s hard to forgive wrong doings, but holding a grudge doesn’t do anybody any good.

Love is stronger than hate — so stay calm and be strong! You’d be surprised how good it feels when you let go of being upset and forgive, for yourself and the one you’ve forgiven.

13. BRING IT ON

BEAR WRONGS PATIENTLY

If someone does you wrong, instead of being bitter about it, offer it up!

Everyone has their own battles, remember this before forming an opinion or getting angry. If you’re frustrated with someone, step away from the situation, say a prayer, take a few deep breaths, and remember Christ on the Cross — talk about bearing wrongs patiently…If Jesus could do it, we can too!

14. SEND A PRAYER TO GOD

PRAY FOR THE LIVING & THE DEAD

The power of prayer is amazing! Embrace it. Write down names of those to keep in your prayers. Request prayers from friends, families, and your church — the more the better! It’s one of the best ways to offer support, and prayers do get answered!

Of course there are many ways you can perform these Works of Mercy, and numerous other ways to show compassion and kindness. No matter what you choose to do, and where and when you choose to do it, you are responding to the basic and spiritual needs of humanity as we all journey through life together. You are UPRISE!

Please share your acts of kindness with us and others, and if you have your own UPRISE suggestions, let us know!