Compassion and Mercy: Practicing the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy in Everyday Life
Early in our faith life, many of us may have learned about the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy. Since mercy is a virtue which helps us have compassion for others and a desire to alleviate their suffering, we can all benefit from reflecting on the seven Corporal Works of Mercy (to feed the hungry, to give drink to the thirsty, to clothe the naked, to give shelter to travelers, to visit the sick, to visit the imprisoned, and to bury the dead) and the seven Spiritual Works of Mercy (to instruct the ignorant, to counsel the doubtful, to admonish the sinners, to bear patiently those who wrong us, to forgive offenses, to comfort the afflicted, to pray for the living and the dead).
Recognizing that each of us is called to respond to the needs of others with compassion and mercy, we will reflect on God’s invitation to be a bearer of mercy, which is unique to each person. This retreat will include the opportunity to write and share personal reflections and insights gained during the day. Guided by Fr. Kurt Klismet.
All are welcome to attend the Friends Day of Prayer retreats, held monthly on the first Wednesday of the month. It is not required to attend every month, so register for one or more sessions as your schedule allows. While the presenters and topics vary, each Friends Day of Prayer typically includes pastries and conversation at 9:30am, a morning presentation at 10am, an optional Mass, a delicious lunch, short periods of free time to enjoy the grounds or shop in the bookstore, and an afternoon presentation.
Fr. Kurt J. Klismet has been a member of the Order of the Most Holy Trinity and of the Captives (the Trinitarians) for 26 years. He has served the United States Province of the Order as Treasurer, Secretary, Director of Postulants, Novice Master, and as President of Trinitarian International Solidarity – USA (the Order’s organization which works on behalf of persecuted Christians). He frequently assists the Vice Province of India with mission appeals and regularly preaches parish missions and leads retreats. Fr. Kurt holds a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts in Theology, with an emphasis on Mission and Cross-Cultural Studies, from Washington Theological Union. He enjoys studying history, walking, assisting in parish ministry, and collaborating with others to pray for and assist persecuted Christians around the world.