The First Spiritual Work of Mercy

Instruct the
Ignorant

The Catholic obligation to teach the Faith, transmit doctrine, and educate souls in the truth revealed by Christ

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Hand holding, Bible and people with prayer for religion, guidance or support with scripture for worship

Catholic Foundation

"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you." — Matthew 28:19-20

The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that we must "admonish sinners, instruct the ignorant, counsel the doubtful" (CCC 2447). To instruct the ignorant is the first Spiritual Work of Mercy — teaching those who lack knowledge of God, the Faith, or moral truth.

Christ commissioned His apostles: "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to the whole creation" (Mark 16:15). St. Paul instructed Timothy: "Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching" (2 Timothy 4:2). Teaching the Faith is not optional — it's a command from Christ Himself.

What This Work of Mercy Means

"Instruct the Ignorant" means sharing the truth of the Catholic Faith with those who don't know it — whether they've never heard it, misunderstand it, or have fallen away. It means being a teacher of truth in a world full of confusion.

This isn't about being condescending or judgmental. It's about lovingly sharing what God has given us — the greatest gift of all. Whether it's explaining the Gospel to a friend, teaching a child to pray, or helping a newcomer understand the Mass, every act of instruction plants seeds of faith.

We instruct not to win arguments, but to lead souls to Christ. True instruction is an act of love — helping others know, love, and serve God. The Catholic Faith isn't meant to be hoarded; it's meant to be shared.

How Divine Mercies Inc. Lives This Out

Divine Mercies Inc. lives out this spiritual work of mercy through our faith formation programs. We provide Catholic education and spiritual instruction to individuals and families seeking to grow in their relationship with God.

Our ministry offers RCIA formation for those entering the Church, Bible studies for all ages, catechism classes for children and adults, and retreats focused on deepening faith. We also provide resources for family catechesis, helping parents pass on the Faith to their children.

We work with priests, religious educators, and lay ministers to ensure sound Catholic teaching. When you support Divine Mercies Inc., you're helping us share the Truth that sets souls free — the greatest gift we can give.

Why Your Support Matters

Teaching the Faith requires materials, trained instructors, and programs that reach those who need it most. Your generosity makes it possible for Divine Mercies Inc. to continue spreading the Light of Christ.

For someone who has never heard the Gospel or has drifted from the Faith, good teaching can be life-changing. Your support helps us reach the curious, the searching, and the hungry for truth.

The truth changes lives. Help us share the Gift of Faith with those who are searching.

Support This Work of Mercy