Sunday, April 24, 2022
The readings for Divine Mercy Sunday for Year C tell of Jesus Christ’s incredible love for us and his willingness to display his care for us. The first reading (Acts 5:12-16) tells of how God works wonders through his children. The psalm (Psalm 118:2-4, 13-15, 22-24) is a song of thanksgiving. The second reading (Revelation 1:9-11A, 12-13, 17-19) tells of how God revealed his mysteries to us. And in the gospel (John 20:19-31) learn of how Jesus lovingly convinced Thomas that he was truly risen.
This is a time to reflect on all God has done to show us his mercy and to reveal his identity to us. Here are some ideas:
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.
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 known for her diary and for promoting devotion to Jesus as the King of Mercy which is particularly done by praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet.
The Book of Revelation can be one of the most difficult books of the bible to understand. In his book The Lamb's Supper: The Mass As Heaven on Earth, Scott Hahn makes the case that the Book of Revelation is actually a description of the Mass. And every time we participate in the Eucharistic celebration we are actually taking part in a liturgy where heaven intersects with earth.
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?
He touched me with his right hand and said, "Do not be afraid. I am the first and the last, the one who lives. Once I was dead, but now I am alive forever and ever. I hold the keys to death and the netherworld.
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