Divine Mercy is celebrated each year on the Second Sunday of Easter. This special day, also known as the Feast of the Divine Mercy, marks the conclusion of the Octave of Easter.
Understanding Divine Mercy Sunday
This significant feast day holds an important place in the liturgical calendar, particularly for the Roman Rite. While it is officially observed in the Roman Rite calendar, its observance also extends to some Anglo-Catholics within the Church of England, though it is not an official Anglican feast.
The date for Divine Mercy Sunday is not fixed to a specific calendar date like December 25th for Christmas. Instead, it is a movable feast, as it always falls on the Sunday immediately following Easter Sunday. This means the specific calendar date will vary from year to year, always remaining one week after Easter.
Key Aspects of Divine Mercy Sunday
To summarize the key information regarding its observance:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Observed Date | The Second Sunday of Easter annually. |
| Other Names | Often referred to as the Feast of the Divine Mercy. |
| Liturgical Context | It concludes the Octave of Easter, which is the eight-day period immediately following Easter Sunday. |
| Religious Traditions | Primarily observed in the Roman Rite calendar. It is also recognized and celebrated by some Anglo-Catholics of the Church of England, although it does not hold official feast status within the Anglican tradition. |
This annual celebration emphasizes God's boundless mercy, especially evident in the Paschal Mystery of Christ's passion, death, and resurrection.
