4th Easter Friday 2021 - Way

Jesus is the only Jesus is the ONLY way to heaven, though there are many modes to follow Him. #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/043021.cfm Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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St. Catherine Of Siena 2021 - Master

Jesus promises to send us the Holy Spirit, who will help us fulfill our duties and become better than our earthly masters. https://ift.tt/3u62sb0 #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3gNIxd6 Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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St. Louis De Montfort 2021 - Mother

St. Louis de Montfort was called by God to help us understand the love fo God by loving the mother of Jesus Christ. He provides a good lesson yet for us. https://ift.tt/3e0USZD #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2Py5Nki Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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4th Easter Tuesday 2021 - Suspense

The people demanded a straight answer from #Jesus #Christ, but they were the ones who suspended themselves. Do we see what the Lord is doing? https://ift.tt/3eD27Gs #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3xrRhvC Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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4th Easter Sunday 2021 - Hireling

#Jesus #Christ is the #GoodShepherd, who provides for the sheep. There are many who follow His example, but there are also hirelings who fail. https://ift.tt/2RTWZWA #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3tUpqBW Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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3rd Easter Friday 2021 - Way

#Jesus is the #way to life, and when He tells us that we must eat His Flesh and drink His blood, He is giving the means. https://ift.tt/3avuRQ4 #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3emvRaw Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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3rd Easter Wednesday 2021 - Life

Jesus gives us life through His Body and Blood. https://ift.tt/3ngCFdJ #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/32AyRua Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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3rd Easter Thursday 2022 - Respond

The eunuch responded to Philip's proclamation of Jesus, knowing Him to be more than the Word of God but also the Bread of Life. https://ift.tt/3sOzZFu #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3esLltE Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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3rd Easter Tuesday 2021 - Bread

#Jesus #Christ promises the #Bread of #Life, which will satisfy all hunger. #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3sxEt2U Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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3rd Easter Sunday 2021 - Flesh

Jesus appears to the disciples and shows Himself to be flesh and blood, and that continues. https://ift.tt/3ssfXjB #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3drU7sx Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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2nd Easter Friday - Known

Sometimes it's the little things that matter most, and despite not knowing his name, the child's shared lunch in the Lord's hands changed the world. #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3go4oHM Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2 https://ift.tt/3rJxDa0
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Divine Mercy Sunday 2021 - Mercy

St. Thomas doubted the resurrection because he did not see, but Christ in His mercy transforms doubt to faith. https://ift.tt/3s9BJIP #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/2QdbZOv Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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Divine Mercy Novena, Day 9

Day 9 of the Novena to the Divine Mercy

“Today bring to Me

SOULS WHO HAVE BECOME LUKEWARM,

and immerse them in the abyss of My mercy. These souls wound My Heart most painfully. My soul suffered the most dreadful loathing in the Garden of Olives because of lukewarm souls. They were the reason I cried out: ‘Father, take this cup away from Me, if it be Your will.’ For them the last hope of salvation is to run to My mercy.”

Most compassionate Jesus, You are Compassion Itself. I bring lukewarm souls into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart. In this fire of Your pure love let these tepid souls, who, like corpses, filled You with such deep loathing, be once again set aflame. O Most Compassionate Jesus, exercise the omnipotence of Your mercy and draw them into the very ardor of Your love, and bestow upon them the gift of holy love, for nothing is beyond Your power.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon lukewarm souls who are nonetheless enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Father of Mercy, I beg You by the bitter Passion of Your Son and by His three-hour agony on the Cross: Let them, too, glorify the abyss of Your mercy. Amen.

The Chaplet of Divine Mercy

At the conclusion of the Chaplet, the leader concludes with the prayers:

Eternal God, in whom mercy is endless and the treasury of compassion — inexhaustible, look kindly upon us and increase Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments we might not despair nor become despondent, but with great confidence submit ourselves to

Your holy will, which is Love and Mercy itself.

O Blood and Water which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a Font of Mercy for us, I trust in You! (3x)

Saint Faustina, pray for us!
Pope Saint John Paul II, pray for us!

Easter Friday 2021 - Return

#Jesus is the rock rejected, but now the cornerstone to which we must return. https://ift.tt/3d8n0db #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3fW132I Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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Divine Mercy Novena, Day 8

Day 8 of the Novena to the Divine Mercy

“Today bring to Me

THE SOULS WHO ARE DETAINED IN PURGATORY,

and immerse them in the abyss of My mercy. Let the torrents of My Blood cool down their scorching flames. All these souls are greatly loved by Me. They are making retribution to My justice. It is in your power to bring them relief. Draw all the indulgences from the treasury of My Church and offer them on their behalf. Oh, if you only knew the torments they suffer, you would continually offer for them the alms of the spirit and pay off their debt to My justice.”

Most Merciful Jesus, You Yourself have said that You desire mercy; so I bring into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls in Purgatory, souls who are very dear to You, and yet, who must make retribution to Your justice. May the streams of Blood and Water which gushed forth from Your Heart put out the flames of Purgatory, that there, too, the power of Your mercy may be celebrated.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls suffering in Purgatory, who are enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. I beg You, by the sorrowful Passion of Jesus Your Son, and by all the bitterness with which His most sacred Soul was flooded: Manifest Your mercy to the souls who are under Your just scrutiny. Look upon them in no other way but only through the Wounds of Jesus, Your dearly beloved Son; for we firmly believe that there is no limit to Your goodness and compassion. Amen.

The Chaplet of Divine Mercy

At the conclusion of the Chaplet, the leader concludes with the prayers:

Eternal God, in whom mercy is endless and the treasury of compassion — inexhaustible, look kindly upon us and increase Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments we might not despair nor become despondent, but with great confidence submit ourselves to

Your holy will, which is Love and Mercy itself.

O Blood and Water which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a Font of Mercy for us, I trust in You! (3x)

Saint Faustina, pray for us!
Pope Saint John Paul II, pray for us!

Easter Thursday 2021 - Opened

The Risen #Jesus #Christ opened the disciples minds to understanding scripture, and He continues to open us up to belief. #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3dPJ8Iq Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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Divine Mercy Novena, Day 7

 Day 7 of the Novena to the Divine Mercy

“Today bring to Me

THE SOULS WHO ESPECIALLY VENERATE AND GLORIFY MY MERCY,

and immerse them in My mercy. These souls sorrowed most over my Passion and entered most deeply into My spirit. They are living images of My Compassionate Heart. These souls will shine with a special brightness in the next life. Not one of them will go into the fire of hell. I shall particularly defend each one of them at the hour of death.”

Most Merciful Jesus, whose Heart is Love Itself, receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who particularly extol and venerate the greatness of Your mercy. These souls are mighty with the very power of God Himself. In the midst of all afflictions and adversities they go forward, confident of Your mercy; and united to You, O Jesus, they carry all mankind on their shoulders. These souls will not be judged severely, but Your mercy will embrace them as they depart from this life.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls who glorify and venerate Your greatest attribute, that of Your fathomless mercy, and who are enclosed in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. These souls are a living Gospel; their hands are full of deeds of mercy, and their hearts, overflowing with joy, sing a canticle of mercy to You, O Most High! I beg You O God: Show them Your mercy according to the hope and trust they have placed in You. Let there be accomplished in them the promise of Jesus, who said to them that during their life, but especially at the hour of death, the souls who will venerate this fathomless mercy of His, He, Himself, will defend as His glory. Amen.

The Chaplet of Divine Mercy

At the conclusion of the Chaplet, the leader concludes with the prayers:

Eternal God, in whom mercy is endless and the treasury of compassion — inexhaustible, look kindly upon us and increase Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments we might not despair nor become despondent, but with great confidence submit ourselves to

Your holy will, which is Love and Mercy itself.

O Blood and Water which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a Font of Mercy for us, I trust in You! (3x)

Saint Faustina, pray for us!
Pope Saint John Paul II, pray for us!

Divine Mercy Novena, Day 6

Day 6 of the Novena to the Divine Mercy

“Today bring to Me

THE MEEK AND HUMBLE SOULS

AND THE SOULS OF LITTLE CHILDREN,
and immerse them in My mercy. These souls most closely resemble My heart. They strengthened Me during My bitter agony. I saw them as earthly Angels, who will keep vigil at My altars. I pour out upon them whole torrents of grace. Only the humble soul is capable of receiving My grace. I favor humble souls with My confidence.”

Most Merciful Jesus, You yourself have said, “Learn from Me for I am meek and humble of heart.” Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart all meek and humble souls and the souls of little children. These souls send all heaven into ecstasy and they are the heavenly Father’s favorites. They are a sweet-smelling bouquet before the throne of God; God himself takes delight in their fragrance. These souls have a permanent abode in Your Most Compassionate Heart, O Jesus, and they unceasingly sing out a hymn of love and mercy.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon meek souls, upon humble souls, and upon little children who are enfolded in the abode which is the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. These souls bear the closest resemblance to Your Son. Their fragrance rises from the earth and reaches Your very throne. Father of mercy and of all goodness, I beg You by the love You bear these souls and by the delight You take in them: Bless the whole world, that all souls together may sing out the praises of Your mercy for endless ages. Amen.

The Chaplet of Divine Mercy

At the conclusion of the Chaplet, the leader concludes with the prayers:

Eternal God, in whom mercy is endless and the treasury of compassion — inexhaustible, look kindly upon us and increase Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments we might not despair nor become despondent, but with great confidence submit ourselves to

Your holy will, which is Love and Mercy itself.

O Blood and Water which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a Font of Mercy for us, I trust in You! (3x)

Saint Faustina, pray for us!
Pope Saint John Paul II, pray for us!

Easter Tuesday 2021 - Held

Mary Magdalen encounters the Risen Lord, but is reminded not to hold on to Him. #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3mmKPAM Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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Divine Mercy Chaplet, Day 5

Day 6 of the Novena to the Divine Mercy

“Today bring to Me

THE MEEK AND HUMBLE SOULS

AND THE SOULS OF LITTLE CHILDREN,
and immerse them in My mercy. These souls most closely resemble My heart. They strengthened Me during My bitter agony. I saw them as earthly Angels, who will keep vigil at My altars. I pour out upon them whole torrents of grace. Only the humble soul is capable of receiving My grace. I favor humble souls with My confidence.”

Most Merciful Jesus, You yourself have said, “Learn from Me for I am meek and humble of heart.” Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart all meek and humble souls and the souls of little children. These souls send all heaven into ecstasy and they are the heavenly Father’s favorites. They are a sweet-smelling bouquet before the throne of God; God himself takes delight in their fragrance. These souls have a permanent abode in Your Most Compassionate Heart, O Jesus, and they unceasingly sing out a hymn of love and mercy.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon meek souls, upon humble souls, and upon little children who are enfolded in the abode which is the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. These souls bear the closest resemblance to Your Son. Their fragrance rises from the earth and reaches Your very throne. Father of mercy and of all goodness, I beg You by the love You bear these souls and by the delight You take in them: Bless the whole world, that all souls together may sing out the praises of Your mercy for endless ages. Amen.

The Chaplet of Divine Mercy

At the conclusion of the Chaplet, the leader concludes with the prayers:

Eternal God, in whom mercy is endless and the treasury of compassion — inexhaustible, look kindly upon us and increase Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments we might not despair nor become despondent, but with great confidence submit ourselves to

Your holy will, which is Love and Mercy itself.

O Blood and Water which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a Font of Mercy for us, I trust in You! (3x)

Saint Faustina, pray for us!
Pope Saint John Paul II, pray for us!

Divine Mercy Novena, Day 4

Day 4 of the Novena to the Divine Mercy

“Today bring to Me

THOSE WHO DO NOT BELIEVE IN GOD

AND THOSE WHO DO NOT YET KNOW ME.
I was thinking also of them during My bitter Passion, and their future zeal comforted My Heart. Immerse them in the ocean of My mercy.”

Most compassionate Jesus, You are the Light of the whole world. Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who do not believe in God and of those who as yet do not know You. Let the rays of Your grace enlighten them that they, too, together with us, may extol Your wonderful mercy; and do not let them escape from the abode which is Your Most Compassionate Heart.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls of those who do not believe in You, and of those who as yet do not know You, but who are enclosed in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Draw them to the light of the Gospel. These souls do not know what great happiness it is to love You. Grant that they, too, may extol the generosity of Your mercy for endless ages. Amen.

The Chaplet of Divine Mercy

At the conclusion of the Chaplet, the leader concludes with the prayers:

Eternal God, in whom mercy is endless and the treasury of compassion — inexhaustible, look kindly upon us and increase Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments we might not despair nor become despondent, but with great confidence submit ourselves to

Your holy will, which is Love and Mercy itself.

O Blood and Water which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a Font of Mercy for us, I trust in You! (3x)

Saint Faustina, pray for us!
Pope Saint John Paul II, pray for us!

Easter Sunday 2021 - New

The #Resurrection of #Jesus #Christ makes all things new. #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3mfqIEH Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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Easter Vigil 2021 - New Light

Christ is risen, and has given us new light. #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/31Jrccu Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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Good Friday 2021 - Cross

Christ offered His life on the Cross for us. #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3rJxDa0 Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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Easter Vigil 2021 - New Light

Christ is risen, and has given us new light. #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/31Jrccu Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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Good Friday 2021 - Cross

Christ offered His life on the Cross for us. #Catholic #homily #Scripture Readings are found at https://ift.tt/3rJxDa0 Give feedback at goo.gl/forms/iG1Tvk4cHTGhdOWz2
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Easter Sequence

Christians, to the Paschal Victim
offer sacrifice and praise.

The sheep are ransomed by the Lamb;
and Christ, the undefiled,
hath sinners to his Father reconciled.

Death with life contended: combat strangely ended!
Life's own Champion, slain, yet lives to reign.

Tell us, Mary: say
what thou didst see upon the way.

The tomb the Living did enclose;
I saw Christ's glory as He rose!

The angels there attesting;
shroud with grave-clothes resting.

Christ, my hope, has risen:
He goes before you into Galilee.

That Christ is truly risen
from the dead we know.
Victorious King, Thy mercy show!
Amen. Alleluia.

Divine Mercy Novena, Day 3

Day 3 of the Novena to the Divine Mercy

“Today bring to Me

ALL DEVOUT AND FAITHFUL SOULS,

and immerse them in the ocean of My mercy. These souls brought Me consolation on the Way of the Cross. They were that drop of consolation in the midst of an ocean of bitterness.”

Most Merciful Jesus, from the treasury of Your mercy, You impart Your graces in great abundance to each and all. Receive us into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart and never let us escape from It. We beg this grace of You by that most wondrous love for the heavenly Father with which Your Heart burns so fiercely.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon faithful souls, as upon the inheritance of Your Son. For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, grant them Your blessing and surround them with Your constant protection. Thus may they never fail in love or lose the treasure of the holy faith, but rather, with all the hosts of Angels and Saints, may they glorify Your boundless mercy for endless ages. Amen.The Chaplet of Divine Mercy

At the conclusion of the Chaplet, the leader concludes with the prayers:

Eternal God, in whom mercy is endless and the treasury of compassion — inexhaustible, look kindly upon us and increase Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments we might not despair nor become despondent, but with great confidence submit ourselves to

Your holy will, which is Love and Mercy itself.

O Blood and Water which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a Font of Mercy for us, I trust in You! (3x)

Saint Faustina, pray for us!
Pope Saint John Paul II, pray for us!

Easter Exultet

Exult, let them exult, the hosts of heaven,
exult, let Angel ministers of God exult,
let the trumpet of salvation
sound aloud our mighty King's triumph!

Be glad, let earth be glad, as glory floods her,
ablaze with light from her eternal King,
let all corners of the earth be glad,
knowing an end to gloom and darkness.

Rejoice, let Mother Church also rejoice,
arrayed with the lightning of his glory,
let this holy building shake with joy,
filled with the mighty voices of the peoples.

(Therefore, dearest friends,
standing in the awesome glory of this holy light,
invoke with me, I ask you,
the mercy of God almighty,
that he, who has been pleased to number me,
though unworthy, among the Levites,
may pour into me his light unshadowed,
that I may sing this candle's perfect praises.)

(V. The Lord be with you.
R. And with your spirit.)
V. Lift up your hearts.
R. We lift them up to the Lord.
V. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
R. It is right and just.

 

It is truly right and just, with ardent love of mind and heart
and with devoted service of our voice,
to acclaim our God invisible, the almighty Father,
and Jesus Christ, our Lord, his Son, his Only Begotten.

Who for our sake paid Adam's debt to the eternal Father,
and, pouring out his own dear Blood,
wiped clean the record of our ancient sinfulness.

These, then, are the feasts of Passover,
in which is slain the Lamb, the one true Lamb,
whose Blood anoints the doorposts of believers.

This is the night,
when once you led our forebears, Israel's children,
from slavery in Egypt
and made them pass dry-shod through the Red Sea.

This is the night
that with a pillar of fire
banished the darkness of sin.

This is the night
that even now, throughout the world,
sets Christian believers apart from worldly vices
and from the gloom of sin,
leading them to grace
and joining them to his holy ones.

This is the night,
when Christ broke the prison-bars of death
and rose victorious from the underworld.

Our birth would have been no gain,
had we not been redeemed.

O wonder of your humble care for us!
O love, O charity beyond all telling,
to ransom a slave you gave away your Son!
O truly necessary sin of Adam,
destroyed completely by the Death of Christ!
O happy fault
that earned so great, so glorious a Redeemer!

O truly blessed night,
worthy alone to know the time and hour
when Christ rose from the underworld!

This is the night
of which it is written:
The night shall be as bright as day,
dazzling is the night for me,
and full of gladness.

The sanctifying power of this night
dispels wickedness, washes faults away,
restores innocence to the fallen, and joy to mourners,
drives out hatred, fosters concord, and brings down the mighty.  
On this, your night of grace, O holy Father,
accept this candle, a solemn offering,
the work of bees and of your servants’ hands,
an evening sacrifice of praise,
this gift from your most holy Church.

But now we know the praises of this pillar,
which glowing fire ignites for God's honor,
a fire into many flames divided,
yet never dimmed by sharing of its light,
for it is fed by melting wax,
drawn out by mother bees
to build a torch so precious.

O truly blessed night,
when things of heaven are wed to those of earth,
and divine to the human.

Therefore, O Lord,
we pray you that this candle,
hallowed to the honor of your name,
may persevere undimmed,
to overcome the darkness of this night.

Receive it as a pleasing fragrance,
and let it mingle with the lights of heaven.

May this flame be found still burning
by the Morning Star:
the one Morning Star who never sets,
Christ your Son,
who, coming back from death's domain,
has shed his peaceful light on humanity,
and lives and reigns for ever and ever.

R. Amen.

Excerpt from the English translation of the Roman Missal© 2010, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved

Ancient Homily for Holy Saturday

From the Office of Readings for Holy Saturday:

Something strange is happening—there is a great silence on earth today, a great silence and stillness. The whole earth keeps silence because the King is asleep. The earth trembled and is still because God has fallen asleep in the flesh and he has raised up all who have slept ever since the world began. God has died in the flesh and hell trembles with fear. He has gone to search for our first parent, as for a lost sheep. Greatly desiring to visit those who live in darkness and in the shadow of death, he has gone to free from sorrow the captives Adam and Eve, he who is both God and the son of Eve. The Lord approached them bearing the cross, the weapon that had won him the victory. At the sight of him Adam, the first man he had created, struck his breast in terror and cried out to everyone: ‘My Lord be with you all.’ Christ answered him: ‘And with your spirit.’ He took him by the hand and raised him up, saying: ‘Awake, O sleeper, and rise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.’ I am your God, who for your sake have become your son. Out of love for you and for your descendants I now by my own authority command all who are held in bondage to come forth, all who are in darkness to be enlightened, all who are sleeping to arise. I order you, O sleeper, to awake. I did not create you to be held a prisoner in hell. Rise from the dead, for I am the life of the dead. Rise up, work of my hands, you who were created in my image. Rise, let us leave this place, for you are in me and I am in you; together we form only one person and we cannot be separated. For your sake I, your God, became your son; I, the Lord, took the form of a slave; I, whose home is above the heavens, descended to the earth and beneath the earth. For your sake, for the sake of man, I became like a man without help, free among the dead. For the sake of you, who left a garden, I was betrayed to the Jews in a garden, and I was crucified in a garden. See on my face the spittle I received in order to restore to you the life I once breathed into you. See there the marks of the blows I received in order to refashion your warped nature in my image. On my back see the marks of the scourging I endured to remove the burden of sin that weighs upon your back. See my hands, nailed firmly to a tree, for you who once wickedly stretched out your hand to a tree. I slept on the cross and a sword pierced my side for you who slept in paradise and brought forth Eve from your side. My side has healed the pain in yours. My sleep will rouse you from your sleep in hell. The sword that pierced me has sheathed the sword that was turned against you. Rise, let us leave this place. The enemy led you out of the earthly paradise. I will not restore you to that paradise, but I will enthrone you in heaven. I forbade you the tree that was only a symbol of life, but see, I who am life itself am now one with you. I appointed cherubim to guard you as slaves are guarded, but now I make them worship you as God. The throne formed by cherubim awaits you, its bearers swift and eager. The bridal chamber is adorned, the banquet is ready, the eternal dwelling places are prepared, the treasure houses of all good things lie open. The kingdom of heaven has been prepared for you from all eternity.

Divine Mercy Novena, Day 2

 Day 2 of the Novena to the Divine Mercy

“Today bring to Me

THE SOULS OF PRIESTS AND RELIGIOUS,

and immerse them in My unfathomable mercy. It was they who gave Me strength to endure My bitter Passion. Through them as through channels My mercy flows out upon mankind.”

Most Merciful Jesus, from whom comes all that is good, increase Your grace in men and women consecrated to Your service, that they may perform worthy works of mercy; and that all who see them may glorify the Father of Mercy who is in heaven.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the company of chosen ones in Your vineyard -- upon the souls of priests and religious; and endow them with the strength of Your blessing. For the love of the Heart of Your Son in which they are enfolded, impart to them Your power and light, that they may be able to guide others in the way of salvation and with one voice sing praise to Your boundless mercy for ages without end. Amen.

The Chaplet of Divine Mercy

At the conclusion of the Chaplet, the leader concludes with the prayers:

Eternal God, in whom mercy is endless and the treasury of compassion — inexhaustible, look kindly upon us and increase Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments we might not despair nor become despondent, but with great confidence submit ourselves to

Your holy will, which is Love and Mercy itself.

O Blood and Water which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a Font of Mercy for us, I trust in You! (3x)

Saint Faustina, pray for us!
Pope Saint John Paul II, pray for us!

The Good Friday Reproaches

As we are commemorating our Lord's Passion, one thing we might do as a family is pray the Reproaches. These are the liturgical text the Church asks to be prayed during the veneration of the Cross, and perhaps even more powerful this year as we experience a pandemic that the Lord might be using to bring deeper conversion.

 

The Reproaches (Improperia) 

Antiphon 1 and 2:
We worship you, Lord,
we venerate your cross,
we praise your resurrection.
1: Through the cross
you brought joy to the world. 

1: (Psalm 66:2)
May God be gracious and bless us;
and let his face shed its light upon us. 

Repeat Antiphon by 1 and 2: 

The Reproaches: 

I. 

1 and 2: My people, what have I done to you
How have I offended you? Answer me! 

1: I led you out of Egypt,
from slavery to freedom,
but you led your Savior to the cross. 

2: My people, what have I done to you?
How have I offended you? Answer me! 

1: Holy is God! 
2: Holy and strong! 
1: Holy immortal One, have mercy on us! 

1 and 2: For forty years I led you
safely through the desert.
I fed you with manna from heaven,
and brought you to a land of plenty; but you led your Savior to the cross. 

Repeat "Holy is God..." 

1 and 2: What more could I have done for you.
I planted you as my fairest vine,
but you yielded only bitterness:
when I was thirsty you gave me vinegar to drink,
and you pierced your Savior with a lance. 

Repeat "Holy is God..." 

II. 

1: For your sake I scourged your captors
and their firstborn sons,
but you brought your scourges down on me. 

(Repeated throughout by Choir 2)
2: My people, what have I done to you?
How have I offended you? Answer me! 

1: I led you from slavery to freedom
and drowned your captors in the sea,
but you handed me over to your high priests.
2: "My people...." 

1: I opened the sea before you,
but you opened my side with a spear.
2: "My people...." 

1: I led you on your way in a pillar of cloud,
but you led me to Pilate's court.
2: "My people...." 

1: I bore you up with manna in the desert,
but you struck me down and scourged me.
2: "My people...." 

1: I gave you saving water from the rock,
but you gave me gall and vinegar to drink.
2: "My people...." 

1: For you I struck down the kings of Canaan.
but you struck my head with a reed.
2: "My people...." 

1: I gave you a royal scepter,
but you gave me a crown of thorns.
2: "My people...." 

1: I raised you to the height of majesty,
but you have raised me high on a cross.
2: "My people...."

Hymn for Good Friday

Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,
Noble tree beyond compare!Never was there such a scion,Never leaf or flower so rare.Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,Sweet the burden that they bear!

Cantors:Sing, my tongue, in exultationOf our banner and device!Make a solemn proclamationOf a triumph and its price:How the Savior of creationConquered by his sacrifice!
All:Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,Noble tree beyond compare!Never was there such a scion,Never leaf or flower so rare.

Cantors:For, when Adam first offended,Eating that forbidden fruit,Not all hopes of glory endedWith the serpent at the root:Broken nature would be mendedBy a second tree and shoot.
All:Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,Sweet the burden that they bear!

Cantors:Thus the tempter was outwittedBy a wisdom deeper still:Remedy and ailment fitted,Means to cure and means to kill;That the world might be acquitted,Christ would do his Father’s will.
All:Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,Noble tree beyond compare!Never was there such a scion,Never leaf or flower so rare.

Cantors:So the Father, out of pityFor our self-inflicted doom,Sent him from the heavenly cityWhen the holy time had come:He, the Son and the Almighty,Took our flesh in Mary’s womb.
All:Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,Sweet the burden that they bear!

Cantors:Hear a tiny baby crying,Founder of the seas and strands;See his virgin Mother tyingCloth around his feet and hands;Find him in a manger lyingTightly wrapped in swaddling-bands!
All:Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,Noble tree beyond compare!Never was there such a scion,Never leaf or flower so rare.

Cantors:So he came, the long-expected,Not in glory, not to reign;Only born to be rejected,Choosing hunger, toil and pain,Till the scaffold was erectedAnd the Paschal Lamb was slain.
All:Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,Sweet the burden that they bear!

Cantors:No disgrace was too abhorrent:Nailed and mocked and parched he died;Blood and water, double warrant,Issue from his wounded side,Washing in a mighty torrentEarth and stars and oceantide.
All:Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,Noble tree beyond compare!Never was there such a scion,Never leaf or flower so rare.

Cantors:Lofty timber, smooth your roughness,Flex your boughs for blossoming;Let your fibers lose their toughness,Gently let your tendrils cling;Lay aside your native gruffness,Clasp the body of your King!
All:Sweet the timber, sweet the iron,Sweet the burden that they bear!

Cantors:Noblest tree of all created,Richly jeweled and embossed:Post by Lamb’s blood consecrated;Spar that saves the tempest-tossed;Scaffold-beam which, elevated,Carries what the world has cost!
All:Faithful Cross the Saints rely on,Noble tree beyond compare!Never was there such a scion,Never leaf or flower so rare.

All:Wisdom, power, and adorationTo the blessed TrinityFor redemption and salvationThrough the Paschal Mystery,Now, in every generation,And for all eternity. Amen.

Chaplet of Divine Mercy

On Divine Mercy Sunday, we are encouraged to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet.
Here's How:
Make the Sign of the Cross
Pray the Opening Prayers The second prayer is repeated three times:"You expired, Jesus, but the source of life gushed forth for souls, and the ocean of mercy opened up for the whole world. O Fount of Life, unfathomable Divine Mercy, envelop the whole world and empty Yourself out upon us."
"O Blood and Water, which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a fount of mercy for us, I trust in You!" (three times)
Pray the Our Father
Pray the Hail Mary
Say the Apostles' Creed
Pray the Prayer "Eternal Father" On the Our Father bead before each decade, pray the following prayer: "Eternal Father, I offer You the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your dearly beloved Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world. Amen."
Pray the Prayer "For the Sake of His Sorrowful Passion" Ten Times On each of the Hail Mary beads in each decade, pray the following prayer: "For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world."
Repeat Steps 6 and 7 On each of the next four decades of the Chaplet, repeat steps 6 and 7 (pray the Eternal Father, followed by ten "For the Sake of His Sorrowful Passion").
Pray the Concluding Doxology Three Times After you have prayed all five decades of the Chaplet, pray the following prayer, which is repeated three times: "Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and on the whole world." (three times)
Pray the Closing Prayer After the doxology, pray the following final prayer: "Eternal God, in Whom mercy is endless, and the treasury of compassion inexhaustible, look kindly upon us, and increase Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments, we might not despair, nor become despondent, but with great confidence, submit ourselves to Your holy will, which is Love and Mercy Itself. Amen."
End With the Sign of the Cross

Divine Mercy Novena, Day 1

 Prayer for First Day of Divine Mercy Novena 

“Today bring to Me

ALL MANKIND, ESPECIALLY ALL SINNERS,

and immerse them in the ocean of My mercy. In this way you will console Me in the bitter grief into which the loss of souls plunges Me.”

Most Merciful Jesus, whose very nature it is to have compassion on us and to forgive us, do not look upon our sins but upon our trust which we place in Your infinite goodness. Receive us all into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart, and never let us escape from It. We beg this of You by Your love which unites You to the Father and the Holy Spirit.

Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon all mankind and especially upon poor sinners, all enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. For the sake of His sorrowful Passion show us Your mercy, that we may praise the omnipotence of Your mercy for ever and ever. Amen.

The Chaplet of Divine Mercy

At the conclusion of the Chaplet, the leader concludes with the prayers:

Eternal God, in whom mercy is endless and the treasury of compassion — inexhaustible, look kindly upon us and increase Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments we might not despair nor become despondent, but with great confidence submit ourselves to

Your holy will, which is Love and Mercy itself.

O Blood and Water which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a Font of Mercy for us, I trust in You! (3x)

Saint Faustina, pray for us!
Pope Saint John Paul II, pray for us!