Charity is the theological virtue that allows us to love God above all things and our neighbor as ourselves, with the same love of Christ.

The Catechism (n. 1822) defines it thus:

“Charity is the theological virtue by which we love God above all things for Himself, and our neighbor as ourselves for the love of God.”

Saint Augustine summed it up in a phrase that spans the centuries:

“Love and do what you want.”

Because when the love of God fills the heart, all actions flow from that source.

How to live Charity today

Charity isn’t just about giving alms or doing social work: it’s a way of life that permeates every action. In everyday life, we experience:

• Loving God in prayer and the sacraments.
• Practicing forgiveness, even when it’s hard.
• Helping the needy, not only with material things, but also with time and listening.
• Building community in the family, in the parish, at work.

Pope Benedict XVI explained it in Deus Caritas Est  (n. 25):

“For the Church, charity is not a kind of social assistance activity… but belongs to her nature and is an indispensable manifestation of her very essence.”

Practical tips for growing in Charity

1. Offer a conscious act of love to God every morning.
2. Do a specific act of mercy each week  (visiting, comforting, feeding, teaching, etc.).
3. Cultivate patience in times of tension.
4. Truly listen to whoever is speaking to you, without rushing.
5. Pray for those you find hard to love.

Examination of conscience on Charity

• Do I truly love God, or am I seeking myself more?
• Have I been selfish with my time, resources, or attention?
• Do I forgive from the heart, or do I hold a grudge?
• Am I charitable in my words, avoiding harmful judgments and criticism?
• Do I recognize the face of Christ in the poor and needy?

A final key

Charity is the virtue that gives meaning to all others. Without love, faith and hope are empty. Saint Paul puts it forcefully (1 Cor 13:13):

“Now these three remain: faith, hope, and love; but the greatest of these is love.”