"...when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once there came out blood and water." (John 19:34)
Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Tomorrow the Church celebrates the last day of the Octave of Easter, known as Divine Mercy Sunday. This special celebration was requested by Jesus Himself, when he appeared to a polish nun, St. Faustina Kowalska, in the early part of the twentieth century. Years later, another great polish saint, Pope St. John Paul II named the second Sunday of Easter as Divine Mercy Sunday in order to heed our Lord's request. As we see in the image of Divine Mercy (below), the red and white rays signify the blood and water which poured forth from the side of Christ when His heart was pierced by a lance as He hung on the Cross. They also signify the sacraments of Baptism and the Eucharist, which are the font of life for the Church. As Catholics, we are borne of the water and blood which flowed from the side of Christ, and may that Precious Blood wash over our souls and purify us of all that keeps us from God. May the blood and water of His Heart bring healing to the sick, strength and protection to those engaged in healthcare and public service, hope to those who are isolated and alone, and conversion to each and every one of us and to the world, so in need of God's mercy. May it be so!
Please see below for some parish announcements, and know of my prayers for you all!
Your father in Christ,
Father Keiter
“I desire that the Feast of Mercy be a refuge and shelter for all souls, and especially for poor sinners” (Diary, 699). - words of Jesus to St. Faustina about Divine Mercy Sunday.