As we prepare for the Sunday of Divine Mercy this weekend, we can reflect upon the mercy Christ shows us in His suffering, death, and Resurrection. By our sin, we distance or cut ourselves off from the life of God's grace within us. But rather than leave us among the dead, our God wants to wipe away our sins and welcome us in friendship.

His forgiveness, which brings us to life in Him, is possible in the Sacrament of Reconciliation because He first offered Himself for our sake. Trusting in God's mercy and the power of the Resurrection, let us ask His forgiveness for the times we have failed to respect one another or to cherish His gift of life.

Jesus's Passion and death are not the end; they point to the joy of the Resurrection.

"By his wounds, we were healed" (Isaiah 53:5).

Acts of Reparation (Choose one.)

· On the Sunday of Divine Mercy (April 8^th this year), take some time to learn about St. Faustina and the message of Divine Mercy. Then pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet in reparation for sins against life.

· Reflect on one of the Mass readings for the Sunday of Divine Mercy. How is God speaking to you?

· Encounter Christ's ready forgiveness in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and then continue to place your trust in God's mercy with a short prayer.

One Step Further

Read "Bridges of Mercy for Post-Abortion Healing" to learn how to extend God's mercy to those who suffer from involvement in abortion.

Also available to print for free or order as a brochure.

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Did You Know?

The Church grants a plenary indulgence for celebrating Divine Mercy Sunday. Learn more!

Maggie was diagnosed with brain cancer and strongly opposed assisted suicide until her peaceful passing in September 2015. Watch her powerful story of hope and courage. View video https://youtu.be/XJwWKDGBS5o

The Right to Religious Freedom

Acts of Reparation:

Pray for the protection of religious freedom in our country and around the world. (Prayer card available to order.)
Readthis short flyer on Saints Thomas More and John Fisher. How do their witnesses apply to our lives today?
Reflect upon what Pope Francis has said regarding religious freedom and "polite persecution."

One Step Further

Contact your representatives, asking them to support the Conscience Protection Act of 2016 and the Russell Amendment.
Share Cathy's story, "The Right to Religious Freedom," and other conscience protection videos on your social media accounts.
Follow@usccbfreedom on Twitter, and subscribe to the monthly e-newsletter, "Free to Serve" to stay up-to-date with the latest resources and information on the right to keep our religious freedom.

Photo Gallery

We travel throughout the diocese to promote the cause of pro-life. Come see where we've been.