# Fourth Day of the Divine Mercy Novena: Praying for Those Who Do Not Believe
*2016-06-08*

> Bill Young continues the Divine Mercy Novena, focusing on intercessory prayer for atheists and those who have not yet encountered Christ, and shares a story about a Catholic physics professor.

## Introducing the Fourth Day

Good afternoon, this is Bill Young. Welcome to the three‑o’clock hour, the Great Hour of Mercy. Today we continue the Divine Mercy novena with the fourth day, whose intention is for those who do not believe in God and those who have not yet known Him.

## Why We Pray for Atheists and the Unbelieving

We all encounter people who identify as atheists, and it can be hard to understand their perspective. Yet the Church calls us to pray for them, individually and as families. One particular person I have in mind is a physics professor who also serves as dean at a Catholic college. He is a good, family‑oriented man, and I hope his Catholic colleagues and perhaps some priests can engage him with charity and reason, pointing him toward Christ.

## A Resource on Faith and Science

A few days ago I posted a video interview with Dr. Rizzo, a physicist who explained how modern physics can lead us to contemplate the mystery of the Incarnation and the beginning of time. I encourage you to listen to that interview again; it offers a way to speak intelligently with people who think at a very high intellectual level. Through the Holy Spirit, we can bridge that gap.

## Prayer for the Unbelieving

Let us now pray together:

Most Compassionate Jesus, you are the ruler of the whole world, received into the depths of your merciful heart. Enlighten the souls of those who do not believe in God and those who have not yet known you. May the rays of your grace draw them to the light of the Gospel, that they may know the great happiness of loving you. Eternal Father, turn your merciful gaze upon these souls, and grant that they, too, may exalt the generosity of your mercy for endless ages. Amen.

## Closing Blessing

May God bless you all, and may the souls we pray for come to know the love and mercy of Christ.

*Through prayer and the Holy Spirit, we can reach even those who seem far from faith.*