Divine Mercy Sunday/2nd Sunday of Easter
Jesus’ mercy knows no bounds. He longs for us all to be saved—regardless of time, or how far one has strayed.
Today’s Gospel shows of the depth of God’s mercy. Retelling the thousand-year-old story of “doubting Thomas,” it provides the perfect passage for today, Divine Mercy Sunday.
From this deep desire for the apostle Thomas to believe that he had truly risen, to his 20th century message to a Polish nun, Jesus has and always will, have an inconceivable mercy for us all. Today, let us all exclaim as Thomas did upon recognizing Jesus, “My Lord and my God!”
Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord | April 8
The Feast of the Annunciation marks the beginning of the Incarnation, an important event that allows us all to reflect on Mary's faith and humility in saying "yes" to God's call.
As the Archangel Gabriel appears to a young Mary, announcing that she had been chosen by God to bear a son, she is afraid. Through divine revelation and intervention, Gabriel reassured Mary, allowing her to declare with love, "Let it be done to me according to your word," demonstrating her trust in God and willingness to participate in His plan for salvation.
As we reflect on the Annunciation, we are called to imitate Mary's response to God, acting through faith and trust in God's providence. Much like Mary did, we often see God's promises in unexpected ways. Open your eyes to the ways in which his promises continue to be fulfilled in our lives!
National Eucharistic Congress: July 17-21, 2024
Parishes from every corner in our nation will gather at the feet of Jesus, boldly anticipating a new Pentecost at the 10th National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis.
Join Bishop Walsh and other faithful from the diocese. The Diocese of Gaylord is offering a package including a discounted rate for the full Congress pass. For questions and to register, contact Ami Peterson, Director of Faith Formation at 989-705-3539 or apeterson@dioceseofgaylord.org
Rachel's Vineyard Retreats
What: Rachel’s Vineyard is a safe space to renew, rebuild and redeem hearts broken by abortion. Held all over the world, these retreats offer you a supportive, confidential, and non-judgmental environment where woman and men can express, release and reconcile painful post-abortion emotions to begin the process of restoration, renewal and healing. The weekend will help your soul find a voice and transform the pain-of-the-past into hope and love.Cost includes two-night accommodations, meals and retreat materials. Financial help available to those in need.
When: April 26-28, 2024
Where: Augustine Retreat Center, Conway, MI
Cost: $220 (financial aid available)
Contact to register and more information: Jane O’Brien, 231-675-1715, jobrien4611@gmail.com
Kristyn Lent, 231-838-8383, kristyn63@icloud.com
Image: Color, BW, 1920x1080
Solidarity Fund for National Eucharistic Congress
The National Eucharistic Congress has recently released information about a Solidarity Fund available for both individuals and groups interested in attending the Congress but who are unable to afford the inherent costs.
For individuals:
The scholarship application is available for anyone interested in applying. The application is self-guided and user-friendly.
For groups:
The scholarship application for groups requires some collaboration with the Diocese of Gaylord, and is meant for youth, school, or parish groups. If you are interested in bringing a group from your parish or school, please reach out to me or Ami Peterson, (989) 705-3539, to learn more about what the process looks like.
For both groups and individuals, the link to apply for the Solidarity Fund is below:
Solidarity Fund for Financial Assistance (eucharisticcongress.org)
Up North Catholic E-Newsletter
The Diocese of Gaylord has recently launched a weekly e-newsletter that will help deepen your understanding and relationship with God. Subscribe now and receive a variety of faith-based content including Bishop Walsh's "Checking In" video via email every Wednesday afternoon. Sign up today: dioceseofgaylord.org/subscribe.
