Being a Catholic means being merciful, 'the willingness to enter into the chaos of another.' This book explores the seven corporal and seven spiritual works of mercy and considers how we invoke mercy both in the church in the Eucharistic liturgy and in our homes, with family and friends. Interspersed are three meditations on mercy: on September 11, on being a priest in light of the scandal in Boston, on the world of HIV/AIDS.