From the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry and the Office of Faith Formation
The Week of Witness is celebrated during the week we honor both Martin Luther King Jr. and St. Marianne Cope, two people who lived a life of witness to the gospel mandate to love one another. It is also the time when we honor the gift of life and the dignity of each
person through the March for Life in Washington. In these weeks following Christmas, this is one more way to remind us that we are called by our Baptism to find ways to deepen our relationship with Jesus and continue to reach out in love and service to others.
One way our Catholic faith teaches us to do this is through the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy, actions we can perform that extend God’s compassion and mercy to those with physical, spiritual and emotional needs.
Corporal Works of Mercy
• feed the hungry
• give drink to the thirsty
• clothe the naked
• shelter the homeless
• care for the sick
• visit the imprisoned
• bury the dead
Spiritual Works of Mercy
• share knowledge
• give advice to those who need it
• comfort the suffering
• be patient with others
• forgive those who hurt you
• give correction to those who need it
• pray for the living and the dead
Look around you. Talk with others. Pray. Listen to the quiet voice within, the voice of God calling you by name to reach out to others. Listen to your heart as an idea comes to you, and follow it, not only during this week, but throughout the year.
Share your ideas and actions — they will inspire others! Following in the footsteps of faith filled disciples who have gone before us, let’s witness to the Good News of Jesus.
During the Week of Witness, we invite you to share photos depicting the many ways you act as a witness of faith. Please include the hashtag #WeekofWitness when posting photos to Twitter, Facebook or Instagram. If you’d like, you may also send photos to Nicole at nchenet@syrdio.org.
