Sunday 27 April 2025 — Homily: Divine Mercy Sunday — A Summary and Reflection

Divine Mercy Sunday

Summary

Divine Mercy Sunday celebrates the living presence of the Risen Christ in the Christian community, a presence that renews, heals, and forgives. Faith is not based on physical evidence, but on hearing the Word and encountering the Spirit in the Church. Christian communities, shaped by mercy and love, are the clearest proof that Jesus is alive and active today.

First Reading: Acts 5:12–16

The apostles perform many signs and wonders among the people, healing the sick and those afflicted by unclean spirits. Their unity and the powerful works they perform attract many new believers, showing that the Spirit of the Risen Christ is alive in the Church. The Christian community itself becomes a visible testimony to the Resurrection.

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 118

“Give praise to the Lord, for he is good; his mercy endures forever.” A psalm of thanksgiving for God’s enduring mercy and victorious love. The image of the rejected stone becoming the cornerstone points to Christ, who was crucified but now reigns as the foundation of the new life of the Church.

Second Reading: Revelation 1:9–11a, 12–13, 17–19

John recounts his vision of the glorified Christ, the “Living One” who has conquered death. Jesus stands among the churches, encouraging believers to remain faithful despite trials. His victory over death is a source of courage and hope for all Christians.

Gospel: John 20:19–31

Jesus appears to the disciples, offering them peace and breathing the Holy Spirit upon them. Thomas’ initial doubt gives way to a profound profession of faith when he encounters the Risen Christ. Jesus blesses those who believe without seeing, highlighting the importance of faith in the unseen yet real presence of the Risen Lord among us.

Reflection

Divine Mercy Sunday reminds us that the Church, animated by the Spirit, is a living sign that Jesus is alive. His mercy continues to heal, forgive, and unite. Through the gift of faith, we encounter the Risen Christ in the Word, in the community, and in the sacraments.
Like Thomas, we are called to move beyond doubt to deep trust: “My Lord and my God!”
Today, we are invited to embody Divine Mercy, showing forgiveness, compassion, and love thus making Christ present in a world that longs for healing and hope. May our communities shine as witnesses to the enduring life and mercy of the Risen Lord.