As we draw closer to the beginning of a new Liturgical Year,
I am asking for our parishes and ministries
to dedicate this year to the theme of Divine Mercy.
For each movement of the Liturgical Year,
there is an aspect of Divine Mercy
I want to invite us to explore.
ADVENT/CHRISTMAS/EPIPHANY - Divine Mercy Among Us
Just as Christ was incarnate and manifest among us through his conception, birth, and theophany, so the Divine Mercy he bore is manifest among us. During these weeks of the Church Year (until Ash Wednesday), As we preach, let us look for opportunities to tie in two concepts: First, at his first coming, Jesus revealed the inexhaustible mercy of the Father to the world. Second, we today are agents of revealing that same inexhaustible mercy to those we encounter day by day.
LENT/HOLY WEEK - Divine Mercy Offers Itself for Us
Christ becomes our source of Divine Mercy not only by his nature, but through his self-oblation, pouring out his life for others even unto death upon a cross. While we must maintain a healthy balance for the self, these holy days of preparation for Easter are a time where we are called to consecrate ourselves ever more fully to being agents of and beacons for mercy in our world. What are some concrete ways we can translation Christ's actions and Scriptural principle into action in our lives to touch others?
EASTER/PENTECOST - Divine Mercy Triumphs over All
There is no part of the human experience that is not touched by the dying and rising of our Incarnate Lord. During the season of new life and the days in which we recall the Spirit's descent, through our preaching, let us fan into flame a realization among our people that even in the most basic concerns of their lives, God is present and merciful, seeking to sow peace and bring triumph in the midst of every moment.
ORDINARY TIME - Divine Mercy is Ever-Present
We live in a world where abandonment is rampant. Sometimes it is dramatic, other times it is quiet. Sometimes it is family, sometimes friends, sometimes other things. Throughout these days of Ordinary Time, let us find ways to emphasize not only the presence of God's mercy in day to day life, but to emphasize the permanence of his mercy, his love, and his grace.
SPECIAL ACTION - Evenings of Reflection
I would also ask the following in every parish: At some point in the weeks before Christmas, Easter, Corpus Christi Sunday, and All Saints' to schedule an evening to reflect on some of these themes and to invite individuals to participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. For those not serving in traditional parish settings, we can discuss some other options if they are appropriate.
