Description
Book SynopsisThe Works of Mercy introduces readers to the seven corporal and seven spiritual works of mercy, inviting readers to explore mercy in our everyday lives. James Keenan defines mercy as the willingness to enter into the chaos of another, and it is one of the central elements of the Christian faith. Over the centuries Christians have defined themselves by feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and caring for the sick. The book explores the traditional works of mercy and also looks at how mercy enters into ordinary life, in the way we care for our families and the way we care for ourselves. The third edition features more inclusive language to resonate with readers of all backgrounds, new case studies and examplesfrom health care to the prison system, and new material on how Pope Francis and his papacy reflect mercy.
Trade ReviewJames F. Keenan, SJ, is one of the church's most vibrant, influential, and sensible theologians. His work on mercy and compassion, as well as his larger work on moral theology, has had a profound influence on my own life. His writings, based on Scripture, tradition, and experience, are accessible, inviting, faithful, provocative, and inspiring. Father Keenan has helped to teach me how to think about life, and, more importantly, how to live. -- James Martin, SJ, author of The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything and Jesus: A Pilgrimage
Pope Francis has called for a “Church of Mercy”—but what does that require of us today? James Keenan shows us the way, incarnating Christian moral wisdom in vivid accounts of suffering and succor. Keenan takes us from a Tijuana jail cell, through the cancer wards at a Boston teaching hospital, to a little bistro called Sweet Inspiration in the Philippines. A consummate teacher, he equips us to recognize and respond to the urgent pleas for mercy in our own lives. -- M. Cathleen Kaveny, Darald and Juliet Libby Professor of Law and Theology, Boston College
In this compelling and evocative work, Keenan sheds new light on the Christian tradition of mercy. With his characteristic erudition and enviable fluency, Keenan reveals the multidimensional nature of mercy, highlighting how the works of mercy are structured into all aspects of Christian life and identity. The updated material in this new edition reconfirms how needful of mercy the world continues to be. Moreover, it captures beautifully the way Pope Francis has evoked and embodied this theology of mercy. Elegantly written, this book is as much a meditation as it is a work of theology. -- Linda Hogan, Trinity College, Dublin
With characteristic skill at combining profound theological insights with engaging narratives, James Keenan provides an inspiring account of the works of mercy essential to Christian living. This edition’s enduring guideposts from the riches of scripture and tradition, resonant personal accounts, and creative updates enable readers to discern God’s invitation to show mercy amidst the chaos of our daily lives. The Works of Mercy brilliantly illuminates the heart of discipleship as we live it out in our ordinary relationships. -- Kristin E. Heyer, Boston College
Table of ContentsChapter One: Mercy Distinguishes Christian Morality Part I: The Corporal Works of Mercy Chapter Two: The Corporal Works of Mercy Chapter Three: Visit the Prisoner Chapter Four: Shelter the Homeless Chapter Five: Feed the Hungry Chapter Six: Give Drink to the Thirsty Chapter Seven: Bury the Dead Chapter Eight: Visit the Sick Chapter Nine: Clothe the Naked Part II: A Meditation on Mercy in Light of September 11, 2001 Chapter Ten: Amazing Grace Part III: The Spiritual Works of Mercy Chapter Eleven: The Spiritual Works of Mercy Chapter Twelve: A Reconciling Spirit Chapter Thirteen: Being Vigilant Chapter Fourteen: Prayer Part IV: A Meditation on Pope Francis’ Jubilee Year of Mercy Chapter Fifteen: Role Reversals and the Scandal of Mercy Part V: Mercy and the Eucharistic Liturgy Chapter Sixteen: The Entrance Rite Chapter Seventeen: The Liturgy of the Word Chapter Eighteen: The Liturgy of the Eucharist Chapter Nineteen: Communion Part VI: A Meditation on HIV/AIDS in a World in Need of Mercy Chapter Twenty: HIV/AIDS in a World in Need of Mercy Part VII: Mercy and Ordinary Life Chapter Twenty-One: Entering into My Own Chaos Chapter Twenty-Two: Entering the Chaos of Family Life Chapter Twenty-Three: Entering the Chaos of the World Part VIII: A Meditation on Abraham Lincoln’s Proclamation of Thanksgiving Day Chapter Twenty-Four: Thanksgiving for Tender Mercies
