THE WORKS OF MERCY Dear Parents: The purpose of this booklet on the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy is to teach your children the importance of the Great Commandment of Love of God and Neighbor. We show our love for God by loving our neighbor. The works of mercy are love in action based on our Lord's Golden Rule: "Treat others the way you would have them treat you" (Matthew 7:12). It is your duty as a parent to teach your children this fundamental rule of Christian living. Early in their life make your children aware of the enormous value as well as obligation of practicing love for the neighbor. Point out to your children by word and by example and out of their own growing experience how welcome a kind person is in any circle. Kindness based on love and respect is the fairest adornment of your home. Keep love in your home and God will be there. As St. John says: "God is love, and they who abide in love abide in God, and God in them" (I John 4:16). Father Lawrence G. Lovasik, S.V.D.