THE WORD THIS WEEKEND

 This weekend at Catholic mass the word will be "mercy"  more specifically, Divine Mercy.  This second Sunday of Easter is now called Divine Mercy Sunday.  

The Gospel reading this Sunday is John's retelling of the story of Thomas after the death of Jesus.  It seems Jesus appeared to all the Apostles except Thomas who was away at the time.  He refused to believe they had actually seen Jesus.  You know the rest.  Doubting Thomas no doubt.

As for Divine Mercy , here is the short story that I related last year.

In the early part of the 20th century, a Polish nun by the name of Maria Faustina had a vision and personal experience with Jesus Christ.  He appeared to her in 1931 and asked that she promote a special devotion to this aspect of Him; His divine mercy. During her experience, Jesus appeared to her with a special color combination emanating from His heart.  He asked that she have a portrait made of this likeness and caption it with the words or signature, "Jesus, I trust in you."  

Faustina was sainted by the Church in 2000 after investigating her claims.  It was then determined that the Sunday after Easter would be the day that this request of Jesus would be celebrated.  A painting or picture as instructed by the vision will be displayed in every church.  The faithful should always have confidence that Jesus is available with this divine mercy - unlimited mercy.  

Believing in God's mercy is intrinsic to the faith.  He knows we are sinners.  We must know He will forgive.  We must learn to forgive.  As Jesus taught us to say to the Father: ". . . Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us."

Have a great weekend.  I love you.

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