As we are about to celebrate that most eminent of all mysteries, in which the blood of Jesus Christ has wiped away all our sins, let us first of all prepare to offer the sacrifice of mercy, so that what we have been given by the goodness of God we may ourselves show to those who have trespassed against us.
We must show more liberal bounty toward the poor and those who suffer from all kinds of affliction in order that many voices may give thanks to God and that the relief of those in need may support our fasts. Indeed, no other devotion of the faithful is more pleasing to the Lord than that which is directed toward the poor.
