By Teresa Rocha
As the Universal Church celebrates this Holy Jubilee Year, the motto, “Pilgrims of Hope,” serves as a spiritual reminder that we are pilgrims on a journey, trying to bring light into the world. We are also reminded as Christians to keep this light burning and be witnesses in this world by providing reasons for our hope in Jesus Christ. That is why this Jubilee Year calls us in a special way to extend care to our brothers and sisters in need through the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy.
We are taught the importance of the Works of Mercy from the Gospel Matthew 25:45, when Jesus tells us, “Whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.”
As a Pilgrim of Hope you can practice simple acts of charity, educate yourself about world hunger, support and volunteer at a homeless shelter, volunteer to work at a clothing drive, spend quality time with those who are homebound, support efforts that seek abolition of the death penalty, support or volunteer at a hospice. Another task for us in this Jubilee Year is to cultivate hope in our young people, listening and supporting their dreams for the future. Indeed, they depend on the witnesses from Christians in the community.
Spread the Works of Mery in the life of our neighbors. Offer a smile, a small gesture of friendship, a kind look, a ready ear, or a good deed, so that the rich seeds of hope may be planted in others.
Practicing these Works of Mercy are practical ways of showing gratitude to the loving God among us.
Teresa Rocha is the Director of the Diocesan Office of Community Services and Outreach Programs. To find local community service volunteer opportunities, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call (909) 475-5468.