# Easter Sunday 2019 – Third Day of the Divine Mercy Novena
*2019-04-20*

> Bill Young reflects on the tragic bombings of Catholic churches in the Indian Ocean, shares a testimony from Sister Fasinita, and leads the third day of the Divine Mercy Novena.

## Prayer for the Martyrs

We begin by praying for the more than 200 faithful who were martyred in the recent bombings of Catholic churches in the Indian Ocean. May the Holy Father grant them eternal rest and comfort their families and the whole Church. Lord, help those who have lost their churches to be rebuilt and bring peace to the region.

## Sister Fasinita’s Testimony

Bill shares a diary entry from Sister Fasinita, written on Easter Sunday, April 24, 1938. She recounts how the sisters caring for the sick told her that the priest would bring the Lord Jesus that day. After receiving permission to leave her bed, she attended Mass and felt a profound peace. She describes surrendering completely to Divine Mercy, experiencing a deep joy that eclipsed all worldly concerns, and trusting wholly in God’s compassion.

## Third Day of the Divine Mercy Novena

Bill leads the third day of the Divine Mercy Novena, beginning with an opening prayer invoking the fountain of life and mercy. The prayer continues with the Our Father, Hail Mary, and the Apostles’ Creed, followed by a series of petitions: “For the sake of His sorrowful passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.” The repeated petitions emphasize the need for God’s mercy for all humanity.

## Invitation to Continue the Novena

The novena will continue for 33 days, beginning a bit early at St. David’s (second floor, room 200) from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. All who live in the St. David’s neighborhood or wish to join are welcome. The next day will be the fourth day of the Divine Mercy Novena.

*May the mercy of the risen Christ sustain us, especially those suffering from violence and loss.*