Dear Parishioners,
On many occasions throughout this pandemic, we have drawn on our faith to guide us through the dark days, to encourage us, to strengthen our belief. And so it was with the Apostles following the Resurrection. Today’s second reading (1 John 5:1-6) reminds us that ‘For whoever is begotten by God conquers the world. And the victory that conquers the world is our faith.’
The Gospel too (John 20:19-31) recounts the story. On visiting the Apostles that first week, Jesus showed them his hands and side. Thomas refused to believe that the resurrected Jesus had been seen by the others until he could actually see and feel the wounds Jesus received during his crucifixion. Jesus said to Thomas ‘Have you come to believe because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.’
Sometimes we have to deepen our faith and are in need of God’s mercy. This first Sunday after Easter is the perfect opportunity to do so – Divine Mercy Sunday. In a series of revelations to St. Maria Faustina Kowalska, God called for a special feast day to be celebrated. Born at the turn of the 20th century, St. Faustina was a Polish nun. Through her, we received the great message of God's mercy, ‘I desire that the Feast of Mercy be a refuge and shelter for all souls, and especially for poor sinners. On that day the very depths of My tender mercy are open.’
Many like to recite the Chaplet of Mercy:
‘Let every soul trust in the Passion of the Lord and place its hope in His mercy. God will not deny His mercy to anyone. Heaven and earth may change, but God's mercy will never be exhausted’ (excerpt from the Diary of Saint Maria Faustina Kowalska, opening prayer).
Fr. Pat Farragher, Adm.
