We conclude our examination of conscience with an exploration of the place that the corporal and spiritual works of mercy have in the life of the Christian. Too often we confess sins of commission easily while forgetting those of omission. We must realize that our love of God must go
beyond the avoiding evil and involve virtuously the support of His creation.
Last week in the three sessions of Family Catechesis teachers, parents, and students studied the corporal works of mercy. They were challenged to “feed the hungry.” It is not just populations of foreign lands who go to bed hungry. Our neighbors too often must choose between paying rent and going to the supermarket. Children are undernourished and seniors succumb to illness due to lack of dietary requirements. Our own Pleasant Valley Food Pantry witnesses to an increasing number of people in need of assistance. Families line up at Dutchess Outreach to get supplies which barely meet their needs. Additionally, we are called to give “drink to the thirsty”. Following examples of the Lord Jesus we must give to our brothers and sisters those gifts which support their lives. “Clothe the naked.” We have been called by some “the throw away society.” How many outfits are in our closets never to be seen again because they are last years’ model or our teens opine “they are not cool.” The Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce collects business clothes barely used which can be distributed to people who require them for job interviews. Organizations such as Birthright require a constant supply of baby outfits and maternity wear. Goodwill and the Salvation Army among others collect clothing for ultimate distribution to the poor. “Shelter the homeless” is a command which might seem somewhat remote until we recall the projects of Habitat for Humanity for which we can volunteer. It is also a fact that many of our older citizens live in unsafe conditions over which they have little control but which neighbors could remedy. In our community we have the wonderful Lutheran Care Center and other institutions for those who can no longer live on their own. Additionally, acute hospitals: Vassar and Saint Francis serve our community. The admonition of “visiting the sick” pertains not to these people but also to those among us who are homebound. It should be of particular concern to all of us that those who cannot worship with us be able to receive the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist, on a regular basis. Recently, in the interviewing of our Confirmation candidates, it was inspiring to hear that so many prepared cookies for men in prison. They realized that though they were not literally “visiting the imprisoned” they were extending themselves to those who were convicted of wrongdoing but who still retain their character as children of God. They fulfill the dictum: Hate the sin, love the sinner. “To bury the dead” pertains not only to the physical act of caring for the departed but also to care for the needs of those who survive.
The spiritual works of mercy also provide for us material upon which we might reflect to ascertain our moral strengths and weaknesses. To “counsel the doubtful” requires us to respond to another’s question with a response faithful to the revelation of God and the Church’s teaching. We must not deliberately mislead or withhold the truth from those who might seem confused and seek us out. “To instruct the ignorant” is a duty not only for a parent but all believers when they perceive a need to educate another. This task is especially performed by those who generously give their time and talents to religious education programs. “Admonishing the sinner” is a responsibility that too many seem to want to escape. They rely upon the subterfuge that we should not judge another. Or they wrongly state, we have no right to criticize. The effort “to comfort the sorrowful’ includes being with those who are experiencing crises in their lives or who are bearing personal losses in sickness or death. Perhaps the most difficult spiritual work is to “forgive injuries.” Thoughts of revenge come too swiftly to mind when we are wronged. Forgetting the times we have intentionally or unintentionally hurt others, we take offense. The mercy that has been poured out to us must be channeled towards others. Additionally, we are called “to bear wrongs patiently.” As Christ did, so must we. Whatever is visited upon us is minor compared to His suffering. Recognizing the salvific value of suffering we should appreciate as St. Paul did that as we identify with the suffering servant so shall we be with the victorious Risen One. Daily we must “pray for the living and the dead.” Jesus told His disciples that “wherever two or three are gathered” in His Name He is in their midst. We must think about not only those who are among us but also the souls in purgatory. No need is insignificant; no miracle, too great.
As we know the Sacrament of Reconciliation is one of two of the sacraments of healing. The other is Anointing of the Sick. This weekend Fr. Francis Perry and myself will celebrate this visible sign of God’s grace. Unlike in the past the sacrament should be received by all suffering chronic and/or serious illness of a physical or mental type. Death might not be in an immediate prospect but is deemed a possibility. The only definitive requirement is that the person has reached the age of reason since the forgiveness of sin is an important aspect of its purpose. It must also be acknowledged that physical healings have taken place as a result of its administration.
Please note the confession schedule which you have received in the mail (or can be obtained at the entrances of the church). The priests are also available at other times by appointment.
May this week of Lenten reflection strengthen our faith, focus our hope, and encourage our charity.
Vivat Jesus,
Fr. Brian
