Mercy
The charism of mercy gives an individual the special grace of exceptional empathy and compassion for those who are weak or suffering. They devote large amounts of time and energy to alleviate their suffering. Someone expressing this gift can meet others where they are with kindness and compassion. The ability to continually forgive those that have erred, comfort the bereaved, help in the face of crisis, minister to the sick, be a peacemaker or offer assistance to those in need is a reflection of the gift of mercy.
This charism works from a place of deep compassion and understanding of the human condition. Mercy is sometimes confused with Encouragement. It is through physically serving those that suffer that the bearer of the gift of mercy expresses the gift, whereas, the gift of encouragement is expressed through listening and words. The gift of Mercy can be messy work at times and call one to do “small things with great love”. (St Teresa of Calcutta)
We are all called to be merciful, however those with the gift of mercy, are energized by connecting through the suffering of others. Those with the gift of mercy find peace and joy in serving those with the greatest suffering, as they recognize the face of Christ in the suffering of the people they serve.
This charism works from a place of deep compassion and understanding of the human condition. Mercy is sometimes confused with Encouragement. It is through physically serving those that suffer that the bearer of the gift of mercy expresses the gift, whereas, the gift of encouragement is expressed through listening and words. The gift of Mercy can be messy work at times and call one to do “small things with great love”. (St Teresa of Calcutta)
We are all called to be merciful, however those with the gift of mercy, are energized by connecting through the suffering of others. Those with the gift of mercy find peace and joy in serving those with the greatest suffering, as they recognize the face of Christ in the suffering of the people they serve.