The Works of Mercy

by Pope Francis, James Keenan (Foreword by)

Overview

In reflections drawn from his writings and preaching, Pope Francis treats the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy, opening for each a window on a larger theme. For instance, under “welcoming the stranger,” Pope Francis reflects on the plight of refugees and immigrants. This book is one of Pope Francis’s most challenging and personal reflections on the gospel message.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781626982369
Publisher:	Orbis Books
Publication date:	08/17/2017
Pages:	208
Product dimensions:	5.37(w) x 8.25(h) x (d)

About the Author

Pope Francis was born in Buenos Aires on December 17, 1936, the son of Italian migrants and the first of five children born in the working-class barrio of Flores. He qualified as a chemical technician, graduated in philosophy in 1963, became a priest in 1969, joined the provincial of the Jesuits of Argentina in 1973, was named auxiliary bishop in 1992, archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998, created cardinal in 2001, and on March 13, 2013, Bishop of Rome and the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church. He died on April 21, 2025.

Table of Contents

Foreword James F. Keenan, SJ vii

Part I The Works of Mercy

Reflecting on the Works of Mercy 3

Part II The Corporal Works of Mercy

Feeding the Hungry 31

Giving Drink to the Thirsty 44

Clothing the Naked 47

Welcoming the Stranger 54

Visiting the Sick 81

Visiting the Prisoner 90

Burying the Dead 107

Part III The Spiritual Works of Mercy

Counseling the Doubtful 113

Instructing the Ignorant 121

Admonishing Sinners 132

Consoling the Afflicted 139

Pardoning Offenses 149

Bearing Wrongs Patiently 164

Praying to God for the Living and the Dead 169

Part IV Conclusion

Blessed Are the Merciful 187