Mercy isn't an abstract word, it's a way of life, pope says

By Junno Arocho Esteves Catholic News Service 

Photo: Pope Francis accepts a hug from a man while meeting the disabled during his general audience in Paul VI hall at the Vatican Jan. 13. (CNS photo/Paul Haring) 

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Mercy is not an abstract concept but a lifestyle that invites Christians to make an examination of conscience and ask themselves if they place the spiritual and material needs of others before their own, Pope Francis said. More.