Seven Corporal Works of Mercy

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#1     Today, 11:22 am

mommamaree Regular Member   Join Date: March 24, 2010 Posts: 2,071

The Spiritual Works of Mercy Three of the seven spiritual works of mercy are to admonish the sinner, to forgive all injuries, and to bear wrongs patiently. I am trying to understand how to live that out with respect to a very close relative who most likely has a severe personality disorder, but can at times, be so genuine. I love her, and I want the best for her, but at present, she is not allowed to visit or call on the phone or speak to my children. It has been this way for over a year now. She has not even seen my youngest child. And this is one of several times in my adult life that I have had to go No Contact. It is agonizing. I don't know what is the godly approach. I am following the guidelines laid out in the book "Boundaries", which claims to be Biblically sound, and which was recommended by many of the great people here at CAF for my situation. How do the works of mercy apply in a situation where one of the people are mentally ill? Any thoughts?

#2     Today, 11:55 am

LPS Junior Member   Join Date: September 12, 2010 Location: Central Iowa Posts: 215 Religion: Catholic

Re: The Spiritual Works of Mercy Are you able to visit her or spend time with her without your children present? Is that an option? __________________ Read the Catholic Bible in a Year ... a clickable reading plan that you can start any time!

#3     Today, 12:09 pm

mommamaree Regular Member   Join Date: March 24, 2010 Posts: 2,071

Re: The Spiritual Works of Mercy Quote: Originally Posted by LPS Are you able to visit her or spend time with her without your children present? Is that an option? Unfortunately, not at present. For one thing, the rules are in place for my protection even more so than for my children. For another, we live hundreds of miles apart. I am doing what I can, maintaining contact strictly via written communication (Facebook and texting). But my main concern is how to continue to live out the Christian virtues and perform the spiritual works of mercy in situations where one is dealing with a person who is not completely sane or safe. Right now, what I am doing is what I can handle and what my husband will reluctantly agree to. But am I supposed to be aiming for something that requires a greater sacrifice on my part?

#4     Today, 12:32 pm

PaulfromIowa Regular Member   Join Date: September 7, 2012 Location: Eastern Iowa Posts: 1,222 Religion: Catholic

Re: The Spiritual Works of Mercy No, you certainly do not have to put yourself in physical danger while you have small children to care for. Pray for this person and maintain the limited written contact. Her life must be very difficult. Urge her to have faith in Christ.