Once Christians have received the grace and forgiveness of God, how are we supposed to live?
This poster was created and scanned on 20”x30” paper. You can print it in this large poster format or on smaller paper by choosing printing options such as “Fit” or “Shrink oversized pages.” It is a digital download with license to print for one family or class.
Out of respect for the artist, do not share this file. Your purchase supports emerging artist Joan Bratt and helps our team create additional materials for home use.
The lists of the Works of Mercy are a way to summarize the teachings of Jesus about how Christians can serve God by loving our neighbors. These teachings can be found in the Gospel of Matthew chapters 5 (Sermon on the Mount) and 25 (Parable of the Kingdom). The Works of Mercy are divided into spiritual and corporal (physical) acts. This vine border contains eight blocks for the Works of Mercy in each category:
Spiritual Works
- Admonish the Sinner
- Comfort the Afflicted
- Counsel the Doubtful
- Forgive All Injuries
- Instruct the Ignorant
- Bear Wrongs Patiently
- Pray for the Living and the Dead
- Care for Creation*
Corporal Works
- Clothe the Naked
- Bury the Dead
- Give Drink to the Thirsty
- Feed the Hungry
- Shelter the Homeless
- Visit the Imprisoned
- Visit the Sick
- Care for Creation*
*Pope Francis declared 2015-16 the Year of Mercy and added an eighth work in both the corporal and spiritual categories: Care for Creation. He urges Christians everywhere to respect, pray, and care for our common home.
Thank you for your ministry of praying with children!
Background:
Our Works of Mercy collection offers printable Memory Cards and a poster you can use if desired. Or just use your imagination! The vine border evokes many biblical images including the True Vine, the Workers in the Vineyard, and the Last Supper. One suggestion for using this border is to reflect on the Works of Mercy and how we can live them out in our lives. Start a conversation with a reading such as Matthew 25:31-40 and brainstorm ways to fulfill them as individuals, a family, or a group. Share your creative ideas and artwork with Meagen Farrell at learn@mustseed.org.
