Be kind hearted to the poor, the unfortunate
and the afflicted;
give them as much help and consolation as you can.

 
St. Louis of France, 13th century

Charity gives us patience
in the face of a word or deed that injures,
and gentle strength to know how to endure
and bear with our neighbor’s shortcomings.

 
St. Catherine of Siena 14th century

The poor take the place of the Son of God
who chose to be poor.

 
St. Vincent de Paul, 17th century

Our love reaches fulfillment
when we share with one another,
not only spiritual goods, but also material goods.

 
Chiara Lubich, foundress of Focolare; 20th century

Be kind to yourself,
for you are your first neighbor.

 
Servant of God, Catherine Doherty, 20th century

We must beg God to pour into our hearts
sentiments of pity and compassion for our neighbor.

 
St. Vincent de Paul, 17th century

Lord, since you are so good to me,
how good I must be towards others.
How truly I must have for every person, however wicked,
the sentiments of a loving brother.

 
cf. Ven. Charles de Foucauld, 20th century

With renewed devotion we must serve the poor,
especially those who are outcast.

 
St. Vincent de Paul, 17th century