How SKD Encourages Service
Love in Action
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2447) says: “The works of mercy are charitable actions by which we come to the aid of our neighbor.” There are two categories of Works of Mercy:
- Corporal Works of Mercy (meeting physical needs): feeding the hungry, visiting the sick, clothing the naked, etc.
- Spiritual Works of Mercy (meeting spiritual needs): forgiving offenses, instructing the ignorant, comforting the sorrowful, etc.
Serving others is considered a direct expression of love, which is the highest commandment: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mark 12:31)
Service = Holiness
The Church teaches that serving others isn’t just “extra credit”; it’s actually part of our path to holiness. Vatican II highlighted this when it said: “The laity are called to make the Church present and operative in those places and circumstances where only through them can it become the salt of the earth.” (Lumen Gentium, 33) That means we’re all called—no matter our job, status, or vocation—to serve others as part of living out the Gospel.
Building the Kingdom of God
Service is how Catholics are called to participate in creating a world that reflects God’s justice and peace. Helping others and working for the common good are ways we “build the Kingdom” on earth.
Salvation and Service
In Matthew 25, Jesus makes it clear that serving others is not just a nice suggestion but is tied to our salvation: “Whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40) For Catholics, service is a way of life. It’s how we imitate Christ, love others, grow in holiness, and bring God’s presence into the world.
