Sunday, April 7, 2024
The readings for Divine Mercy Sunday (2nd Sunday of Easter) for Year B show us that the mercy of God is given to all of us, even though we turn away again and again. In the gospel for this Sunday Jesus appears to the disciples. Then he comes back and lovingly helps Thomas overcome his doubts. Some topics for this weekend include the Sacrament of Reconciliation, forgiveness, and God’s love for us.
Mass Readings for Divine Mercy Sunday
- First Reading – Acts 4:32-35: “The community of believers was of one heart and mind, and no one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they had everything in common.”
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 118: “Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, his love is everlasting.”
- Second Reading – 1 John 5:1-6: “And the victory that conquers the world is our faith.”
- Gospel – John 20:19-31: “Have you come to believe because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.”
Ideas and Resources for the Second Sunday of Easter
Top ideas for Divine Mercy Sunday – Year B
Washed Away Prayer Service
This prayer service makes a nice accompaniment to the Sacrament of Reconciliation. It could also be used for a youth ministry meeting about forgiveness or baptism. #YouthMinistry #forgiven
Receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation
Consider going to reconciliation as a family or with youth group or youth ministry. And then do something afterwards to celebrate this beautiful gift of grace from our Lord. Go out for pizza together or something similar.
All Things Visible and Invisible – Discussion and Reflection Questions
This reflection will help youth think about what it means to believe in something which can’t be seen. How do we know it is real?
Do One of the Corporal Works of Mercy
The gospels show us that Jesus reached out to those in need. His life is a model for how we should interact with others. One way to do this is through the Corporal Works of Mercy. Consider looking at these…
Receive the Holy Spirit
Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you…
Sea Slime (for VBS or Youth Ministry)
Slime is easy to make and fun for kids to play with. Mix up a batch of sea slime for your ocean themed Vacation Bible School or youth group meeting.
The Spiritual Works of Mercy
The Spiritual Works of Mercy are a way for us to accompany and encourage each other on our faith journey. The Spiritual Works of Mercy are acts of charity through which we show our love for each other by .
St. Faustina Kowalska
St. Faustina is known for her devotion to the Blessed Sacrament. Her family had ten children and was very poor. She joined the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy and experienced several visions of Jesus. She is…
Divine Mercy Chaplet
Most Catholic youth are familiar with the rosary, but the Chaplet of Divine Mercy is less well known. The Divine Mercy Chaplet is a devotion which reminds us that God is merciful and that we too must show mercy.