The Work of Mercy ─ Being the Hands and Heart of Christ

A fresh look at the corporal and spiritual works of mercy. If you’ve wondered what the corporal and spiritual works of mercy are—or you want to incorporate them more authentically into your interactions with others, this book is for you. Shea’s unique wit and wisdom permeate these pages, bringing the works of mercy alive in practical ways and dealing with the difficulties that arise when trying to apply them now. How, for instance, do we ?ransom the captive” in our present day, much less think of it as a virtue and not as a capitulation to terrorists? In a civilization where the poor suffer from obesity, what do we do about the command to feed the hungry? What does it mean to forgive? This book tackles the works of mercy in a reverent way, with attention to the many puzzles and complications that arise for the faithful Catholic who tries to live out the works of mercy.

MARK P. SHEA is a popular writer and speaker. He is coauthor of the bestseller A Guide to the Passion: 100 Questions About The Passion of The Christ and author of the acclaimed Mary, Mother of the Son trilogy. He is a regular contributor to the National Catholic Register, is a regular guest on Catholic radio, and blogs at Catholic and Enjoying It.