What to Do When Jesus Is Hungry: A Practical Guide to the Works of Mercy

by Andrew Apostoli

According to the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus will judge us on the basis of whether or not we fed him when he was hungry, gave him drink when he was thirsty, welcomed him when he was a stranger, clothed him when he was naked, and visited him when he was sick or in prison. What we have done for others, he will tell us, we have done for him. The Catholic Church has traditionally called these six acts of kindness--along with a seventh, burying the dead -- the "Corporal Works of Mercy." In this down-to-earth yet inspiring guide, Father Andrew Apostoli, C.F.R., explains the Corporal Works of Mercy and illustrates multiple ways we can do them in our modern everyday life.

Father Apostoli also outlines the lesser-known but equally important "Spiritual Works of Mercy": counseling the doubtful, teaching the ignorant, admonishing the sinner, consoling the afflicted, forgiving offenses, bearing wrongs patiently, and praying for the living and the dead. And he offers many creative ways these too can be made part of our lives.

As a founding member of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, Father Apostoli knows firsthand about the challenges and rewards of caring for those in physical or spiritual need. His order is dedicated to the works of mercy, and Father Apostoli brings to his subject a great wealth of spiritual and practical wisdom gained from personal experience.

Genres: Catholic, Religion

188 pages, Paperback

First published August 15, 2011

Reviews

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a super easy read. I was apprehensive that it would be dry, but I flew through it. The suggestions aren't overwhelming and in bite-sized pieces, which was appreciated. A wonderful read for anyone looking for ideas on how, and when, to practice both the corporeal and spiritual works of mercy.

[Monica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reminders to act on Love.
(You Did It to Me)

[Claire Gilligan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely overview of the works of mercy! Refers to a good number of bible passages for each, and demonstrates each work from various angles, achieving a very holistic outlook. Thorough yet brief, and especially illuminating on the spiritual works of mercy, for which there's so much less written. Highly recommended!

Note: I used this book as the backbone for a pair of bible studies I led, one on each set of the works of mercy. It was my most essential resource by far!