# Divine mercy and the call to unity
*2021-08-19*

> Bill Young and John O'Rourke gather for the fifth day of the Novena to Divine Mercy, focusing on prayers for those who have separated themselves from the Catholic Church.

## A Moment of Fellowship

The episode begins with a lighthearted conversation between Bill and John. They spend some time discussing the recent performance of the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox, debating trade deadlines and playoff possibilities. The conversation shifts briefly to football and the Dolphins, with Bill reflecting on the knowledge and potential of Jason Taylor as a coach, noting how his expertise could benefit the team's defense.

## The Chaplet of Divine Mercy

Transitioning from sports to prayer, the hosts lead the listeners through the traditional prayers of the day. They begin with a prayer for the souls in purgatory and the opening prayer to the Divine Mercy. This is followed by the Our Father, the Hail Mary, Psalm 130, and the Apostles' Creed. Bill and John then alternate the prayers of the Chaplet of Divine Mercy, offering the body and blood of Christ for the sins of the world and the sake of His sorrowful passion.

## Praying for the Separated

On this fifth day of the novena, the focus is specifically on the souls of those who have separated themselves from the Catholic Church. Bill shares a reflection on the desire of Jesus to bring all Christians back into the unity of the one true Church. He emphasizes that God's mercy is open to all who have persisted in error and invites them to return to the original church started by Jesus Christ.

## The Litany of Divine Mercy and Global Intentions

John leads the Litany of Divine Mercy, with the repeated response, "I trust in you." Following the litany, Bill offers prayers for current global crises, including the victims of the earthquake in Haiti and the Americans and allies remaining in Afghanistan. He also remembers those suffering from coronavirus and their families.

## Sacrifice and Guidance

The episode concludes with the sacrificial prayer from Our Lady of Fatima, offered for the conversion of poor sinners and in reparation for offenses against the Immaculate Heart of Mary. John closes the session with a heartfelt prayer to the Holy Spirit, asking for divine wisdom, guidance, and the strength to walk in a manner worthy of God's calling.

*God's mercy is an endless ocean, and He deeply desires the return of all separated souls to the unity of the one true Church.*