Corporal Works of Mercy

[Sarcelle]

Sowing into communities in need.

As an American Catholic living in China, I prayed for ways to support the needy here. The Lord led me to a tiny diocese in a remote area to support Catholic tea farmers. In addition to supporting the religious who minister to the sick and elderly in the region, we work to support farmers so their teas can reach the U.S. market.

I believe we all have gifts and talents that can be used to help communities around us. In addition to providing direct support to those we encounter in our daily lives, we can also work with the Church in efforts to build capacity for larger groups of disadvantaged as well–even if we have to start an initiative ourselves.

www.crossingstea.com

You have probably heard of Fair Trade?

What do you think of it?

 

[Sheeniac]

Here’s my question:

If one is capable of providing (?) corporal works of mercy, but one does not, is that s sin?

I think it’s a judgment call. On one hand, we confess ‘what we have done and what we have failed to do’. But on the other hand, we’re not called to do everything. My own take on the matter is that one needs to look at the trend. For me, I do works of mercy so do not feel called to over extend myself and do everything. But if I were to do very little (or nothing at all) then yes, I could see it being sinful.

I think this with Mt 25:31-46 in mind. usccb.org/bible/matthew/25