April 12 | Divine Mercy Sunday

Instituted by Pope Saint John Paul II in 2000, Divine Mercy Sunday is celebrated on the second Sunday of Easter. It draws from the revelations given to Saint Faustina Kowalska, a Polish nun, who recorded her mystical encounters with Jesus in the 1930s. 

During these apparitions, Christ asked for the establishment of a feast to be celebrated in His honor, emphasizing the power of His mercy to forgive sins and heal brokenness. 

On this day, the faithful are encouraged to seek reconciliation through the Sacrament of Confession as well as receive the Eucharist. A special devotion, known as the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, is often prayed, invoking God’s mercy for the whole world. Divine Mercy Sunday reminds us of God’s endless mercy and the necessity of our repentance.

For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.