Grace is available to you on Divine Mercy Sunday

Note: this article was inspired by an article on TheDivineMercy.org which was unavailable at the time of publication.

Divine Mercy Sunday is a celebration of God’s greatest attribute: His Mercy. Therefore, it is fitting that on this day, the most accessible plenary indulgence is given to the faithful who:

1. Receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion
2. Receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation

For many Catholics, these Sacraments are not presently available. However, what better tribute would it be to pay to God’s Mercy than to trust that Jesus is not hindered by any circumstance from visiting a soul who appeals to Him?

He can reach our souls through an Act of Spiritual Communion, and operate upon our guilt during an Act of Contrition; both acts can be done where ever you are.

Neither of these acts can replace worthy reception of the Sacraments, but we should not take that as reason to forgo the graces available to those who pursue them with faithful confidence.

So, prepare space in your heart for him by taking some time alone to collect yourself. It is also very effective to say the Chaplet of Divine Mercy before making an Act of Contrition.

Say the Act of Contrition which will allow the remittance of sins to the extent made possible by your contrition. The more perfect your sorrow for your sins, the more you allow God’s Mercy to cleanse you.

Next, say the Act of Spiritual Communion, and invite God into your contrite heart.

These acts will be endowed with the grace according to the disposition of the soul; the more given you are to God, the more you will receive of Him.

Act of Contrition

Oh my God, I am heartily sorry, for having offended thee, and I detest all my sins, because I dread the loss of heaven and the pains of hell, but most of all because I have offended Thee, my God, who art all good and deserving of all my love.

I firmly resolve with the help of Thy grace, to sin no more, and to avoid the near occasions of sin.

Amen.

Act of Spiritual Communion

My Jesus, I believe that You are present in the Most Holy Sacrament.

I love you above all things, and desire to receive you int my soul.

Since I cannot at this moment receive You sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart.

I embrace You as if You were already there and unite myself wholly to you.

Never permit me to be separated from You.

Amen.