For His Mercy Endures Forever

On Holy Saturday after sundown at Catholic churches throughout the world, the darkness is pierced by the new fire kindled and then blessed, from which the Paschal Candle is then lighted. This large, blessed candle represents Christ risen from the dead. The Paschal Candle reminds us that in the absolute pitch blackness of the tomb of Jesus, the dazzling light of His Resurrection destroys that darkness of the tomb and shines His light into a world that often grows so incredibly dark. From the wounds of Our Lord still present on His resurrected Body flows forth His love and mercy for the salvation of the world.
 
The Sunday in the Octave of Easter is Divine Mercy Sunday. That day celebrates the light of Christ that has broken through the darkness of the world of sin and pours forth His mercy upon us so that we receive His redemptive love. From His pierced side shine forth pale rays and red rays that indicate the water of Baptism and the Blood of Christ in the Most Blessed Sacrament.
 
Jesus, in His revelations to St. Faustina Kowalska, said this about the Feast of Divine Mercy (Divine Mercy Sunday),
 
My daughter, tell the whole world about My inconceivable mercy. I desire that the Feast of Mercy be a refuge and shelter for all souls, and especially for poor sinners. On that day the very depths of My tender mercy are open. I pour out a whole ocean of graces upon those souls who approach the fount of My mercy. 

The soul that will go to Confession and receive Holy Communion shall obtain complete forgiveness of sins and punishment. On that day all the divine floodgates through which grace flow are opened. Let no soul fear to draw near to Me, even though its sins be as scarlet. 

My mercy is so great that no mind, be it of man or of angel, will be able to fathom it throughout all eternity. Everything that exists has come forth from the very depths of My most tender mercy. Every soul in its relation to Me will contemplate My love and mercy throughout eternity. 

The Feast of Mercy emerged from My very depths of tenderness. It is My desire that it be solemnly celebrated on the first Sunday after Easter. Mankind will not have peace until it turns to the Fount of My Mercy. (Diary, # 699)
 
So, my dear brothers and sisters, as we approach this great Feast of Divine Mercy, we should rejoice in the mercy that Jesus pours out upon us through His Sorrowful Passion and Glorious Resurrection. Let us go to the Merciful Heart of Jesus!
 
Most Reverend William J. Waltersheid
Auxiliary Bishop of Pittsburgh