Today we celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday, and our Church has stated the following about this great feast: “During the Church’s millennium celebration in 2000, Pope John Paul II declared that the Second Sunday of Easter be known as ‘Divine Mercy Sunday’. Prior to this celebration, the Pope also wrote a profound encyclical called ‘Rich in Mercy’. This encyclical explained the doctrinal and scriptural foundations for our understanding of mercy. Our Holy Father looked to a holy woman of Poland, Sr. Faustina, for inspiration. He canonized Sr. Faustina at that same Mass in 2000 at which he instituted the observance of Divine Mercy Sunday. He also clearly articulated the essential message that Jesus gave to Sr. Faustina and the message is that the graces of His mercy are greater than the stains of our sins.”
Pope Francis expressed his devotion to the spirituality of mercy promoted by Pope John Paul II. In a recent address for Divine Mercy Sunday, as reported in the media publication, “Aleteia”, Pope Francis stated, “Today, when the world is being afflicted more and more by wars and is moving away from God, we need the Mercy of the Father above all.” He also noted, “The Lord never ceases to be merciful. Let us think of the mercy of God who always welcomes us, always accompanies us, never leaves us alone.”
In these difficult and uncertain times, we are challenged to truly appreciate this day and reflect a spirit of mercy, repentance and reconciliation in our lives. Jesus’ message to Faustina reminds us that there is no limit to the Lord’s mercy for those who truly believe, for those who humbly ask for forgiveness.
The following “Prayer for Divine Mercy” provided by the media outlet, “Heart of the Nation”, reflects the desire for the mercy that God extends to us:
Lord Jesus,
Risen Savior, born to redeem Your sheep gone astray, as a shepherd desiring that none be lost,
You gave Your love and earthly life, forgiving even as You died on the Cross.
In faith, I ask for Your Divine Mercy.
In humble prayer, I come before You, undeserving of the compassion desired.
For sin, although forgiven, leaves a mark upon perfect Creation defiled.
In hope, I ask for Your Divine Mercy.
With Easter joy that You have risen and belief that You will not abandon me,
may Your words echo in my heart, overcoming my fears and bringing peace.
In love, I ask for Your Divine Mercy. Amen.
As we reflect on this prayer, and on the profound words of Our Holy Father, we invite our parishioners and friends to join us to embrace the generous gift of God’s mercy in a humble spirit of thanksgiving.