A Weekend Celebration of Divine Mercy
What do over 200 buses, 15,000 pilgrims, and nearly 600 volunteers have in common? They are all part of this year’s expected Divine Mercy Sunday weekend celebration, April 18-19, at the National Shrine of The Divine Mercy in Stockbridge, MA.
For more than 25 years, the Marians of the Immaculate Conception have been welcoming the world to the Shrine to celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday. Today, it is has grown into one of the most well-known and largest Divine Mercy Sunday celebrations in the country. There is truly nothing quite like it.
"This year we celebrated Divine Mercy Sunday for the first time at our new Mother of Mercy Outdoor Shrine. It was a great event this year," states Fr. Anthony Gramlich, MIC, Rector of the National Shrine of The Divine Mercy. "The pilgrims did their homework and prayed for good weather and the Lord provided a nice, sunny day for us. We hope to complete the new outdoor shrine by Mercy Sunday 2009 (April 19) and we need your assistance in completing this project. May Jesus, who is our life and hope, pour out His Divine Mercy upon the thousands of pilgrims who will be visiting us this Divine Mercy Sunday. We look forward to seeing you!"
WHAT TO EXPECT
Joining in fellowship with thousands of believers from around the world, pilgrims have two full days to partake of a wonderful selection of spiritual and educational activities. And for those who can come on Friday, The Divine Mercy Novena and Chaplet will be celebrated at 3 p.m. in the Shrine. Then, at 7 p.m. in the Shrine, a Eucharistic Festival of Praise will be offered. It will include Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament with upbeat worship music, spirited preaching by a Marian priest, and Benediction.
On Saturday and Sunday, tents will be set up for prayer, various activities, and groups associated with the Marians. Look for tents for confessions (in many languages), Eucharistic Adoration, the Divine Mercy Gift Shop, and the Marians of the Immaculate Conception.
If you belong to the Marians’ Friends of Mercy or their 13th of the Month Club, plan to arrive on Saturday morning. From 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, a Divine Mercy seminar will be held for you, with experts speaking on the message and devotion. (Call John Foster at 1-800-671-2020 for more information or to register.)
Whether you are visiting the Shrine itself, the Lourdes Grotto, or the various statues and candle shrines on its 350-plus acreage, all pales in comparison with the celebration of Holy Mass. Two outdoor Masses will be celebrated: the Vigil Mass on Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday’s Solemn Liturgy that begins at 1 p.m. at the new Mother of Mercy Outdoor Shrine.
In addition, food will be available for purchase. There will also be first aid, restrooms, and lots of helpful volunteers speaking different languages to make you feel at home.
UNPREDICTABLE WEATHER
Mud. Rain. Snow. It’s just another unpredictable spring in the beautiful Berkshire Mountains. Weather plays a big part in each Divine Mercy Sunday celebration. In fact, Divine Mercy Sunday at the National Shrine is known as much for its temperamental weather as it is for its gracefilled moments. It is best to be prepared for what can be a challenging weather experience. Dress warmly in layers. Wear comfortable shoes that have traction and don’t forget rain gear.
WANT TO VOLUNTEER?
The need has never been greater — and the volunteer hats have never been nicer! If you are one of those friendly, helpful sorts who smiles (even in the rain), we would be happy to have you join us! And don’t think volunteers are just needed for Divine Mercy Sunday weekend. Help is needed the week before and after the big event. Contact the Shrine at 413-298-1322 or email us for more information.
STAYING AT HOME?
Not to worry! As always, we encourage the faithful to celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday in their own local parishes, since it is a universal feast day in the Church.
Even if you celebrate in your parish, you can view the National Shrine’s celebration on cable TV. It will be televised on EWTN (Eternal Word Television Network) to a potential viewing audience of more than 20 million faithful.
Whether you join us here at the National Shrine for a weekend of celebration or celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday in your own parish, may our Lord bless you and your loved ones with graces beyond measure on the feast day.