In 2015, Pope Francis declared an Extraordinary Jubilee – a Year of Mercy – inviting the whole Church to rediscover God’s infinite compassion and to share it with a hurting world. Although it’s been 10 years since that Jubilee, the spirit of the Year of Mercy is something Catholic families can carry into every season of life.

Mercy isn’t just a theme for a calendar year. It’s a way of seeing, loving, and living that can transform our homes and relationships. When we intentionally create a culture of mercy, we teach our children to imitate the heart of Christ, who never tires of forgiving and welcoming us.

Here are some practical ways your family can continue living the Year of Mercy at home:

1. Make Forgiveness Part of Everyday Life

Mercy begins in the little moments – apologizing sincerely after an argument, forgiving quickly, and refusing to hold grudges. Model this by saying things like:

• “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have spoken that way.”
  
• “I forgive you. Let’s start over.”

These words are simple but powerful. They teach children that love is stronger than pride.

2. Learn (or Re-Learn) the Works of Mercy

The Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy give families a blueprint for compassion:

Corporal Works of Mercy:

• Feed the hungry
  
• Give drink to the thirsty
  
• Clothe the naked
  
• Visit the sick
  
• Shelter the homeless
  
• Visit the imprisoned
  
• Bury the dead
  

Spiritual Works of Mercy:

• Instruct the ignorant
  
• Counsel the doubtful
  
• Admonish sinners
  
• Bear wrongs patiently
  
• Forgive offenses willingly
  
• Comfort the afflicted
  
• Pray for the living and the dead
  

You could focus on one work each month, finding simple ways to practice it as a family.

3. Make Time for Confession

One of the greatest gifts of the Year of Mercy was a renewed focus on the sacrament of Reconciliation. Regular confession – monthly or even bi-weekly – reminds us that God’s mercy is inexhaustible. Help your children see confession not as a burden, but as a chance to begin again.

4. Pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy

The Chaplet is a beautiful prayer that can be prayed as a family. Even young children can learn to say:

“For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.”

Praying it together – especially on Fridays or during the 3 p.m. hour – roots your home in trust in God’s mercy.

5. Practice Mercy with Words

Words have the power to build up or tear down. Challenge your family to:

• Avoid gossip and complaining.
  
• Speak kindly even in frustration.
  
• Affirm each other’s efforts.
  

Simple phrases like “I’m proud of you,” “I understand,” and “Thank you for trying” create a culture where mercy thrives.

6. Offer Hospitality

Mercy often means welcoming others. Whether it’s a neighbor in need or a lonely relative, make your home a place where people feel seen and loved. Hospitality doesn’t have to be elaborate – a cup of coffee and a listening ear are sometimes all someone needs.

7. Remember the Mercy You’ve Received

Finally, keep the Year of Mercy alive by regularly reflecting on how God has forgiven and restored you. Gratitude fuels generosity. The more aware we are of our need for mercy, the more freely we offer it to others.

The Year of Mercy may have been a special moment in the Church, but it was never meant to be left behind. As Pope Francis said:

“Let us allow God to surprise us. He never tires of casting open the doors of his heart and repeating that he loves us and wants to share his love with us.”

May your family discover this love anew each day – and may your home be a living witness to God’s mercy in the world.