# Divine Mercy Sunday: Day One of the Novena
*2017-04-23*

> Bill Young reflects on Divine Mercy Sunday, shares recent encounters that point people toward Christ, and begins the first day of the Divine Mercy Novena with a prayer.

## Why Divine Mercy Sunday Matters

Divine Mercy Sunday follows Easter, the day the Church celebrates the Resurrection. It reminds us that Christ’s mercy extends to all humanity, especially sinners. I’m preparing to pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy with a close family member who will join me soon.

## Everyday Encounters as Evangelization

In the past week I’ve met several people who opened doors for conversation about faith: a taxi driver at a bank, a coworker who needed help with an IRA, and strangers on a cruise. Each moment became an invitation to ask, “Are you Catholic?” and to share that I’m returning to Mass after a long absence. These small interactions show how the Holy Spirit works through ordinary life.

## A Tragic Reminder of Our Mission

I was reminded of a former coworker who, despite a cheerful demeanor, suffered a terrible tragedy—she killed her nine‑year‑old daughter and then herself. I had spoken with her about God, and I now wonder if a deeper conversation might have helped. The pain of that loss underscores how we never know the impact our words can have on a soul.

## Training for Real‑World Apologetics

I’ve realized that we need practical training for the many situations we face: how to respond to Jehovah’s Witnesses knocking on our door, how to welcome someone who has drifted from the Church, and how to engage atheists. It’s not enough to give a nice talk; we need concrete responses, much like salespeople have scripts. I hope to learn from priests such as Father Michael Gately, Father Chris Aguilar, and others who can equip us for these encounters.

## Day One of the Divine Mercy Novena

The novena begins with the following prayer, taken from the Divine Mercy Novena booklet:

“Most merciful Jesus, whose very nature is compassion, do not look upon our sins but upon our trust in your infinite goodness. Receive us into the heart of your most compassionate love and never let us stray. Eternal Father, turn your merciful gaze upon all mankind, especially the poor sinners, that we may be filled with your mercy forever. Amen.”

We will continue with the Chaplet of Divine Mercy tomorrow, once our guest can join us.

*Every ordinary encounter is an opportunity to share God’s mercy; we just need to be ready.*