Divine Mercy Sunday

On this Second Sunday of Easter, the Church celebrates Divine Mercy Sunday, a day given to us as a profound reminder of the infinite mercy of God. Instituted by St. John Paul, II in the Jubilee Year 2000 and inspired by the revelations entrusted to St. Faustina Kowalska. This feast draws us deeply into the heart of Christ, from which flow blood and water–the source of our salvation.

Appearing to His disciples. He comes not with condemnation, but with peace: “Peace be with you.” He shows them His wounds–the very signs of His suffering now transformed into signs of mercy and victory. When Thomas doubts, Jesus does not reject him but invites him closer: “Do not be unbelieving, but believe.”

This is the message of Divine Mercy: Christ meets us in our weakness, our doubts, and even our sins–not to condemn us, but to restore us. In a world often marked by anxiety, division and uncertainty, Divine Mercy Sunday reminds us that God’s mercy is greater than any sin, any burden, or any fear we carry. We are not defined by our failures, but by His love.

In a special way, our Parish will celebrate this outpouring of mercy during our annual Forty Hours Devotion beginning this Sunday, April 12th thru Tuesday, April 14th. During these days, our Lord will be exposed in the Most Blessed Sacrament upon the altar, inviting us into His real, living presence. This is a privileged opportunity to step away from the busyness of daily life and spend quiet time with Christ–truly present Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity.

All parishioners are strongly encouraged to make time, even if only for a short visit, to come and adore the Lord. Whether in silence, prayer, or simply resting in His presence, this time of Eucharistic Adoration is a powerful way to encounter Divine Mercy personally. Please consider joining us on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday evenings at 7:00pm as we celebrate Solemn Evening Prayer as a parish community with guest homilist, Fr. Drew Tanguay, Parochial Vicar at St. Catherine Laboure Parish.

Fr. Matthew R. Larlick, Pastor