Divine Mercy Sunday, which falls on the Sunday after Easter, is one of the most powerful days in the Church’s liturgical calendar. It’s a day when the floodgates of God’s mercy are opened in a special way—an opportunity to step away from distraction and draw near to the heart of Jesus.
1. Reflect on What Divine Mercy Sunday Is All About
Divine Mercy Sunday was established by Pope St. John Paul II and is rooted in the revelations given to St. Faustina Kowalska. Jesus made a remarkable promise: the soul who receives Communion in a state of grace on this day, having gone to Confession, will receive not only forgiveness of sins—but the full remission of punishment.
In short, it’s a chance to begin again.
2. Make a Good Confession
Confession is at the heart of this devotion. Whether it’s been a few weeks or a few years, this is the time to go. Prepare well. Be honest. Trust that Christ meets you there, not with condemnation, but with mercy. As Jesus told St. Faustina, “The greater the sinner, the greater the right he has to My mercy.”
3. Pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet—Especially at 3:00 PM
The 3 o’clock hour—when Christ died on the Cross—is known as the Hour of Mercy. Jesus asked that we pause at this time to reflect on His Passion and to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet, even if only briefly. If you’re able, set a reminder to stop and pray at 3 PM. It’s a small habit that can bear much fruit.
4. Create Space for Prayer and Silence
If your schedule allows, carve out a little time this Sunday for quiet. No agenda. No expectations. Just a chance to sit with the Lord and let His mercy reach you. Bring your rosary, your journal, or simply your honest heart. Sometimes the most important thing we can do is simply show up.
5. Keep Sacred Reminders Close
Many people find it helpful to have physical reminders that ground their spiritual practices—whether that’s a rosary, a prayer booklet, or a medal of a saint who inspires them.
If you have something that helps you stay focused in prayer, make time to use it this weekend. If not, consider finding a simple item that draws your heart to mercy. For those interested, we recently put together a version of the Combat Rosary that includes Divine Mercy and St. Faustina medals, along with a small prayer booklet for the chaplet. It’s not about the gear—it’s about staying rooted in the fight for holiness.
Final Encouragement
This Sunday is a gift. Don’t let it slip by unnoticed.
Whether your Lent went as planned or felt more like a struggle, Divine Mercy Sunday is a reminder that grace doesn’t depend on our perfection—it depends on our willingness to trust.
“Jesus, I trust in You.”