In Miscericordiae Vultus (The Face of Mercy), Pope Francis explains that mercy is the ultimate and supreme act by which God comes to meet us. Pope Francis often reminds us, we are all, he included, sinners in need of God’s mercy. The first and only step required to experience mercy is to acknowledge that we are in need of mercy. The mercy of God is his loving concern for each one of us. No one is excluded from God’s mercy. The Lord never tires of forgiving us: never! God always forgives. God forgives always. God forgives not with a decree but with a caress. God’s mercy is the beating heart of the gospel.
(Adapted from the words of Pope Francis: The Name of God is Mercy, Random House)
For your reflection: What place and meaning does mercy have in your heart, life, and personal history?
The Adult Faith Formation and Service Commissions of St. John Parish facilitate our journey into the Heart of Mercy.
