The Spiritual Works of Mercy

The Spiritual Works of Mercy have long been a part of the Christian tradition, appearing in the works of theologians and spiritual writers throughout history.  Just as Jesus attended to the spiritual well-being of those he ministered to, these Spiritual Works of Mercy guide us to “help our neighbor in their spiritual needs” (USCCA). Lent is a good time to reflect on the Acts of Mercy:

FIRST WEEK OF LENT: Counseling the doubtful (USCCB)

Everyone has moments of doubt in their faith journey.  Nevertheless, we should always remember that Christ is the Way, the Truth, and the Life and turn to him along our way.

  • Listen to counsel and receive instruction, that you may eventually become wise” (Prov 19:20)
  • The Cross of Christ “the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength” (1 Cor 1:25)
  • Has someone asked you for advice? Orient your response to Christ, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life
  • Follow Christ with the witness of your life so that others may see God’s love revealed in your actions
  • Accompany a friend who is struggling with believing to join a parish group for service or faith formation, share a book you found useful in dealing with your friend’s faith concern, and worship at Sunday Mass

MERCY GRANT WINNERS 2023

Nativity of our Savior Food Pantry – Portage

Volunteers serve over 600 individuals every second and fourth Tuesday of the month.  With help from the Mercy Grant, they will be able to reach more individuals, serve more families, and offer hope in these trying times.

Sacred Heart Food Panty of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Parish – Michigan City

Food insecurity is an epidemic in Michigan City.   The Sacred Heart pantry serves the poor, needy, and working poor Friday evenings (4:30 – 6:30).  In the first six months of 2023, January-June over 4,000 individuals have been served.

St. Agnes Adult Day Service Center, Caregiver Support Group – St. Paul Parish – Valparaiso

In addition to their care of the elderly, St. Agnes serves many families struggling through the stages of dementia with loved ones, the Caregiver Support Group has seen continued growth with 30 participants and meets monthly.

St. Mary of the Lake Outreach to the Poor Food Pantry – Gary

Serving 120-130 households, around 400 individuals in Lake and Porter County, St. Mary’s provides food, information, and other resources for those in the surrounding community. Starting in November 2015, the food pantry ministry has been growing steadily. 

St Matthias Parish Mental Health Ministry – Crown Point

Serving those with mental health struggles in a parish setting will allow parishioners to feel their needs are acknowledged. The program aims to spread awareness and provide a safe setting to share stories. and provide relevant speakers and information.

St Matthias Parish Pick 7 Food Pantry – Crown Point

The Pick 7 ministry serves the whole person with a warm atmosphere, sharing a meal, camaraderie, and shopping.  At each event over 300 individuals are served.  When available, the parish nurse provides blood pressure checks and wellness information.

SS. Monica and Luke Soup Kitchen – Gary

For 30 years SS. Monica and Luke Soup Kitchen has served the homeless, marginalized, impoverished in Gary, approximately 200 individuals every Friday.  In a food desert many are served a nutritious balanced meal on a weekly basis.

Society of St. Vincent de Paul, District Council of Gary, Inc. Feed the Hungry Food Pantries at St. Ann Church – Gary, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, and St. Casimir Church – Hammond

Three SVDP food pantries in Hammond and Gary serve the communities all year long. They provide food to 200 families in need.  Grant money will be disbursed evenly between the communities to purchase food items and grocery gift cards.

The mission of the Mercy Fund endowment is to distribute funds to eligible agencies that serve the poor and vulnerable in Northwest Indiana. This year’s winners reflect the increased need to feed the hungry and to care for the spiritual and mental health needs in our community.

Thousands of people have been touched by projects and ministries that received support from the Mercy Fund.  You can support the Mercy Fund; for more information contact Judy Holicky 219-769-9292 x 268, pay online at https://www.catholicfuture.org/donate/ or send your payment to the Catholic Foundation, 9292 Broadway, Merrillville, IN 46410.

Catholic Foundation Video: What We Are All About

The Catholic Foundation for Northwest Indiana is once again hosting the annual Red Mass.  This year the Red Mass will take place on October 5, 2023 at Our Lady of Consolation Parish in Merrillville.  Mass will begin at 8:00 am, followed by refreshments and a continuing education seminar for lawyers and accountants.  The Most Reverend Robert J. McClory will be the primary celebrant.  For our continuing education seminar, our speakers this year are Lake County Probate Commissioner Jewell Harris, Jr. and Thomas Devine, Vice President and Wealth Management Team Leader at Peoples Bank.  Together they will address the topic of “Fiduciary Responsibility-A Legal And Practical Perspective Of What Is Required”.

Click here to register.

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Click here to donate to the Mercy Fund!

“For it is in giving that we receive.”
St. Francis of Assisi

As a faithful disciple of Christ, you are generous with your time, talents, and treasure.  The Catholic Foundation of Northwest Indiana is here to help you create a philanthropic legacy that will reflect your faith and benefit your favorite Catholic church or ministry forever.

Contact Judy Holicky to learn how to start a fund:
219-769-9292 x 268
info@catholicfuture.org