The Commitment of the Brotherhood of Mercy

Includes: facsimile of the 1516 edition and the counterfeit; transcription

The Commitment
THIS YEAR 2016, WE CELEBRATE THE FIFTH CENTENARY of the first printed edition of the Commitment adopted by all the Portuguese Brotherhoods of Mercy.
Remembering the Commitment of the Brotherhood of Mercy, a fundamental work to understand the matrix that has guided the Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Lisboa over the last 518 years, is to calmly recognize the DNA of our Institution, at a time when, more than ever, we must honor the references of the past. In this text, in addition to the guiding principles of the Institution, the 14 Works of Mercy are also explicitly stated, which, despite constant challenges, we take great pride in fulfilling with commitment and dedication.
Remembering the Commitment of the Brotherhood of Mercy also means recognizing that, motivated by social transformations, we have always been concerned with exceeding the mission we were entrusted with. Because remembering is more than just bringing to mind. Remembering is bringing back to the heart. And it was driven by the will of the heart that the action of the Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Lisboa expanded, being today a pioneer in seeking new social responses.
Throughout the centuries, we wanted to help more, do better, go further. Likewise, over the centuries, we have had the privilege of witnessing the creation of more Misericórdias and their adherence to fulfilling this Commitment.
Pedro Santana Lopes

Authors: General coordination: Margarida Montenegro – Culture Directorate; Francisco d’Orey Manoel - Historical Archive; Samuel Esteves – Editorial Center; Exhibition Commissioner: Henrique Leitão.
Translation: John Elliott

Year of publication: 2016
Publisher: SCML
ISBN@: 9789899151178