By Msgr. Thomas P. Hadden

It is providential that NC Catholics selected the Corporal Works of Mercy as the theme for its 2006 issues. I say this because in 2006 we have that magnificent Encyclical of Pope Benedict XVI, Deus Caritas Est - God Is Love. Our Holy Father speaks so clearly about Eros and Agape: Eros, the love of woman and man for each other; Agape, the love of God for humanity and the love of humanity for one other.

This issue speaks of the love that guides "the work of mercy" to visit the sick and to comfort the afflicted. I first thought of visiting the sick in terms of the dedicated work of doctors, nurses and other caregivers. Then my thoughts turned to my own recent illness.

I was hospitalized in early December and spent the remainder of the month, plus all of January and February at home recuperating. My brother priests, my family, the parishioners of Cathedral and Lourdes and St. Joseph were wonderful in living out this work. My sister, Mary Bryant, was driven by Father Drew to my home to look after me. She gave me a sister's and a mother's care.

What really impressed me was the response of the neighbors who live in my building. They brought, cards, flowers, food. They visited and they kept this up until I declared myself well. We so often hear of the disengagement of people with the needs of others. Now you have heard that there are still people who care for their neighbor.

This is the charity for others that Pope Benedict spoke of so movingly in his encyclical. The love of God is expressed in service to others. Our Holy Father reminded us that charity is the work of the church. This has to be a charity which is rooted in prayer and a personal relationship with God. Pope Benedict places this type of charity on the same level with celebrating the liturgy and preaching God's word.