We must have a large heart toward our neighbor, which means in affection, love and help, being ever ready to serve, to assist, to comfort, bear with and support in every way in our power, but cheerfully and cordially. A large heart is a heart ready for all sorts of inconveniences, an open heart that loves before all things the will of God.
–Saint Jane Frances de Chantal (1572-1641)
Mercy is born of that love which we ought to exercise towards each other. If we do not, God will require it of us at the Judgement Day; and, where He findeth not the requisite mercy, He will refuse mercy, as He Himself has said.
–Johannes Tauler (c. 1300-1361)
In visiting the dying we should not say many words to them, but rather help them by praying for them.
–Saint Philip Neri (1515-1595)
Do not be disturbed or angered at another’s sin or evil, rather, spiritually help the one who has sinned as best you can, because those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do.
–Saint Francis of Assisi (1181–1226)
Every day you provide your bodies with good to keep them from failing. In the same way your good works should be the daily nourishment of your hearts. Your bodies are fed with food and your spirits with good works. You aren’t to deny your soul, which is going to live forever, what you grant to your body, which is going to die.
–Saint Gregory the Great (c. 540-604)
The man who sets about making others better is wasting his time, unless he begins with himself.
–Saint Ignatius of Loyola (1491-1556)
