Meet the Mercy Experts!

The following is the list of presenters and panelists for the Divine Mercy Networking Forum on Nov. 13, in Washington, D.C.:

The Most Reverend Robert W. Finn, DD, Bishop of Kansas City-St. Joseph (Missouri), serves as chairman of the U.S. Bishops’ Task Force on the Life and Dignity of the Human Person and as consultant to both the Pro-Life Secretariat and the Bishops’ Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development. As a priest in St. Louis, he was involved in planning the first archdiocesan celebrations of Divine Mercy. In his own diocese he has encouraged the Divine Mercy devotion. Shortly after becoming ordinary, he established the Diocesan Shrine to the Divine Mercy and St. Faustina.

Father Seraphim Michalenko, MIC, will serve as homilist for the 10 a.m. Mass on Sunday. Father Seraphim is a world-renowned expert in the message of The Divine Mercy. He served as vice-postulator for the canonization cause of St. Faustina Kowalska, whose revelations in the 1930s led to the modern Divine Mercy movement. He serves as director of the Association of Marian Helpers in Stockbridge, Mass. He is a familiar face to EWTN viewers from his appearances on instructive and inspirational programs dealing with The Divine Mercy message and devotion. He was directly instrumental in the publication of the very first edition in the original Polish language of St. Faustina’s now world-famous Diary, as well as involved in the preparation of the same in several other versions. He also was a firsthand witness of the miracle attributed to St. Faustina’s intercession that opened the way for her being declared “Blessed” in 1993, and he coordinated the efforts that served to verify that miracle as well as a second one that led her to be declared a “saint” in 2000.

Father Kazimierz Chwalek, MIC, is director of Evangelization and Development for the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception and vice-president of the North American Congress on Mercy. Before he joined the Marians in 1980, he worked on the first Polish edition of St. Faustina’s Diary. He later assisted with the English translation. He has served as director of the Association of Marian Helpers and has worked in seminarian formation. His love for Pope John Paul II led him to be the editor of the English edition of The Making of the Pope of the Millennium: Kalendarium of the life of Karol Wojtyla, a compendium of primary sources that chronicle the life and activities of pre-pontifical period of John Paul II. Fr. Kaz was a member of the executive committee of the World Apostolic Congress on Mercy. He is vice president of the North American Congress on Mercy.

Father Donald Calloway, MIC, will speak on the topic “Mary: Mother and Masterpiece of Mercy.” He is the editor of two books: The Immaculate Conception in the Life of the Church(Marian Press, 2004) and The Virgin Mary and Theology of the Body (Marian Press, 2005). He is the author of the book Purest of All Lilies: The Virgin Mary in the Spirituality of St. Faustina(Marian Press, 2008). His new book, No Turning Back: A Witness to Mercy, will be released in January. Father Donald is the house superior of the Marian House of Studies in Steubenville.

Father Anthony Gramlich, MIC, is rector of the National Shrine of The Divine Mercy in Stockbridge, Mass.

Father Joseph Roesch, MIC, member of the Marians’ General Council in Rome. Father Joe has been heavily involved in establishing the Marians’ new Divine Mercy mission to the Philippines. He was host of the “Cenacle of The Divine Mercy: EWTN Program Series II.”

Father Daniel Leary, who has been leading men’s and women’s retreats for more than 12 years. His focus on Divine Mercy as an instrument for healing and grace has drawn many people closer to Christ, strengthened their faith, and led to an enriched prayer life rooted in the sacraments. Ordained in 1997, he serves as pastor at Jesus the Divine Word Church in Huntingtown, Md.

Brother Michael Gaitley, MIC, hopes to be ordained a priest next year. He lives in Stockbridge, Mass., and is an assistant to Fr. Seraphim Michalenko, MIC, on matters relating to the message of The Divine Mercy. He has appeared several times on EWTN.

Brother Richard Mary Dolan, MIC, is a theology seminarian at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, D.C. He is Fresh Anointing’s college outreach coordinator for the Washington, D.C., area, ministering to young adults from 18-35 but primarily to college-age students. He leads a discussion group and helps out with retreats, catechesis, prayer teams, and a weekly Life in the Spirit seminar.

Dave and Joan Maroney are founders of Mother of Mercy Messengers (MOMM), an apostolate of the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception. MOMM is dedicated to taking the heart of the mercy message emanating from the National Shrine of The Divine Mercy in Stockbridge, Mass., to local parishes and schools. They’ve also produced two best-selling DVDs, “Tell All Souls About My Mercy” and “Divine Mercy for Young Hearts.”

Dr. Robert Stackpole, STD, is director of the John Paul II Institute of Divine Mercy, an apostolate of the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception. He is the author of several books, including Divine Mercy: A Guide from Genesis to Benedict XVI (Marian Press). He is also the writer of the popular “Divine Mercy Q&A” column on thedivinemercy.org.

Dr. Bryan Thatcher, MD, is the founder of Eucharistic Apostles of The Divine Mercy (EADM), an apostolate of the Marians Fathers of the Immaculate Conception, that’s based in Riverview, Fla.

Marie Romagnano, RN, is the founder of Healthcare Professionals for Divine Mercy, an apostolate of the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception that specializes in training healthcare professionals and caregivers on the healing power of The Divine Mercy message in caring for patients. She is the founder/president of Medlink, a critical care service in the Boston-Worcester, Mass., area. She is the author of Nursing with the Hands of Jesus and the organizer of Divine Mercy conferences for healthcare professionals.

Terry Muzones of Chicago, Ill., is a longtime promoter of the message of The Divine Mercy. She has helped set up Eucharistic Apostles of The Divine Mercy cenacles in the Philippines, United States, China, Holland and Africa.

Ted Hanley is founder of one of the nation’s most effective organizations performing community-based works of mercy, The Jesse Tree, based in Galveston, Texas.

Patrick Massari is a graduate of Georgetown University who practices civil rights law in Washington, D.C. He started the Divine Mercy Cenacle at Our Lady’s Center in Ellicott City, Md., a Marian shrine and bookstore, where he also serves on the board of directors. He is a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, in Ellicott City, and serves as lector. He’s a member of the Legion of Mary. He also serves in prison ministry.

Janis Clarke is a singer, songwriter, and speaker who recently launched “Word for Life Rosary Mission.” In collaboration with renowned scripture scholar Fr. Francis Martin, Janis produced “Commuter Rosary” CDs to draw Catholics deeper into the Word, the sacraments, and the new evangelization. She sang for Pope John Paul II in Toronto during World Youth Day 2002 and received his blessing. In 2006, she founded the Eucharist for Life Children’s Mission, which encourages children to pray for priests, for the unborn, and for mercy on the whole world in communion with the Blessed Mother and the Holy Innocents. She lives in Gaithersburg, Md.

Marlene Schlecht, a delegate to last year’s World Apostolic Congress on Mercy in Rome, is the facilitator of the Eucharistic Apostles of The Divine Mercy cenacle at her parish, St. Peter’s in Kenosha, Wis., where she also has helped start youth ministry and bereavement ministry programs. Marlene is also a lector, an extraordinary minister of the Eucharist, a catechist for confirmation and RCIA programs, and president of the St. Peter’s Women’s League. She is involved in a hospital ministry and has long been involved with supporting religious vocations. She was involved in the start of a parish twinning mission with the Marians in Rwanda. She enjoys working to promote the works of the Marians and Divine Mercy.

Dr. John Bruchalski, MD, founded of the Tepeyac Family Center in Fairfax, Va., in 1994 with the mission of establishing an obstetrical and gynecological facility that combines the best of modern medicine with the healing presence of Jesus Christ — providing affordable healthcare to women, in particular, those with crisis pregnancies. In 2000, he founded Divine Mercy Care, a non-profit organization performing spiritual and corporal works of mercy in northern Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia. He serves as chairman of Divine Mercy Care’s board of directors. In 2005, Tepeyac Family Center became a part of Divine Mercy Care and currently operates as the first Catholic health care facility in the Diocese of Arlington.

Kellie Ross will give a talk titled “Imitating Christ through the Image of Divine Mercy.” She is the co-founder and director of Missionaries of Our Lady of Divine Mercy in Manassas Va., which operates the House of Mercy, a thrift store that provides free clothing and new shoes as well as spiritual resources to the poor and needy. The Missionaries opened a new mission in June in the west African nation of Cote d’Ivoire (read our nine-part series). After her powerful conversion in 1998, Kellie declared, “I spent half my life offending God. In the second half of my life, Divine Mercy is my ministry in reparation.”

Drew Mariani is a radio talk show host and managing editor at Relevant Radio, based in Green Bay, Wis.

Theresa Bonopartis has been involved in post-abortion work and counseling for 20 years. She will address the Congress on the topic “Where Mercy Meets Faithfulness,” touching on how God not only healed her from an abortion but radically changed her life. From Westchester County, New York, Theresa is director of Lumina, a post-abortion referral service that operates under the auspices of Good Counsel Homes founded by Christopher Bell and Fr. Benedict Groeschel, CFR.

Harold Cassidy, a Pro-Life attorney from New Jersey, served as chief counsel in the famous Baby M case, the first case in the United States to strike down surrogate parenting contracts as illegal, unenforceable, against public policy, and exploitive of women. Among his many achievements, he was selected Person of the Week by ABC World News with Peter Jennings.

Susan Wills is assistant director for Education and Outreach in the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities. An attorney, she holds a J.D. from the University of Miami School of Law and an L.L.M. degree in International and Comparative Law from Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, D.C. Since joining the USCCB in July 1993, she has overseen the preparation of the annual Respect Life Program materials. Susan has written articles for Catholic periodicals, secular outlets, and law journals and writes the bishops’ pro-life newsletter, Life Insight. She also produces the monthly “Word of Life” series, a liturgical resource for pastors. She is a frequent speaker at diocesan conferences and has been a guest on Catholic, Christian, and secular television and radio programs.

For more information on the Divine Mercy Networking Forum and the Mercy Congress, visit mercycongress.org.

‘What the World Needs Right Now’

Organizers for the upcoming North American Congress on Mercy on Nov. 14-15, are pleased to have Fr. Donald Calloway, MIC, among the speakers. In the following Q&A, Fr. Donald, whose powerful conversion story will soon be published in the upcoming book No Turning Back: A Witness to Mercy, looks ahead to the Mercy Congress:

So what are your initial thoughts about the Mercy Congress?
I’m really happy to be a part of this. It’s really a major event in Church history, and there couldn’t be a better place to have it than at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, in Washington, D.C. It’s such a beautiful place, and it’s considered the center of Catholicism in the United States and America’s shrine to Our Lady. Also, for me, being able to give a talk at the Basilica is significant because that’s the place where I was ordained a deacon. For me to be able to go back there and preach is neat because that’s kind of where it all started for me.

So what will your talk be about?
The title of my talk is “Mary: Mother and Masterpiece of Mercy.” My community’s charism includes spreading devotion to Mary Immaculate and spreading the message of The Divine Mercy. So, as I did in my book Purist of All Lilies, I will integrate the message of The Divine Mercy with the role of Our Lady. I’ll show how Our Lady is really the greatest recipient of God’s mercy and is really the masterpiece of creation, the masterpiece of mercy. Hopefully, I’ll get people thinking about Our Lady’s role in the whole Divine Mercy message, how she really is the one who has the deepest knowledge of God’s mercy, and how we can turn to her to help guide us deeper in our relationship with The Divine Mercy.

Why do you think the Mercy Congress is such an important event for the Church?
The theme of the Mercy Congress is “Mercy: Our Hope.” The message of The Divine Mercy certainly gives people a lot of hope, and that’s the thing people need most in this world. I think there’s a lot of people who don’t understand that God’s greatest attribute is mercy: He’s our Merciful Father. His mercy is greater than our sins. But people still think they can’t be forgiven. They still feel they’ve done so many bad things and that God doesn’t love them anymore. Nowadays, many people have just given up — on each other and on themselves. They think that others will never change, or that they, themselves, can never change. The Divine Mercy message teaches us how we can change, and the key to change is through trust in Jesus. His mercy is greater than our sins. He knows everything looks like chaos. He knows how families have a lot of problems. But the key to overcoming our sinfulness, overcoming evil, and overcoming the brokenness in the world is through trust in Jesus. We can’t overcome these things by simply trusting in ourselves or trusting in political regimes or trusting in the latest fads. What the world needs right now is to hear the message of truth from God — that He’s all merciful, therefore we don’t have to go into panic mode. We can rely on Him and have a hope that doesn’t diminish. He doesn’t promise to take away all our problems. He will give us something that will sustain us. “My peace I give you,” He tells us. Through trust we attain hope.

What do you hope the effects will be of the Mercy Congress?
I think the fruit of this Mercy Congress is that people are going to come together and rejoice together in God’s mercy and receive a lot of instruction about mercy, but that’s not all. They will then be inspired to become apostles of mercy to their families, their neighbors, and their community. I think there’s going to be a lot of brainstorming at the Congress about different ways to do that. But the bottom line is that the Mercy Congress is not intended to just be a weekend to come together and feel good. It’s intended to inspire people to take this message and make mercy a part of their lives so that they not only receive and experience the mercy of God but also practice mercy towards others.

In what ways can people practice mercy?
They can practice mercy in so many ways, such as by starting or joining a Eucharistic Apostles of The Divine Mercy cenacle or through the many ways of serving the less fortunate, visiting the sick or dying or imprisoned, or just little things done with great love.

This must be a particularly exciting time to be a Marian of the Immaculate Conception since the Church has so clearly embraced the message of The Divine Mercy, a message the Marians have been entrusted to preach and spread throughout the world.
It really is an exciting time for us. Now we’re kind of known as the “Divine Mercy priests,” and it’s a real gift to us as Marians because God has used this tiny community to do some tremendous work in our time with this message. I think that we have been really blessed by the message because it enables us, as Marians, to really embrace this message ourselves. It helps us embrace a priestly spirituality — of being men of compassion and mercy and being easy to talk to. People can approach us. I think when you represent something so awesome as mercy it really opens you up to many graces. We’ve been blessed with a lot of vocations, recently. We have been able to help a lot of people through spiritual direction. We see the blessings at the National Shrine of The Divine Mercy where we have confessions every day for hours. It’s just awesome. People see us as priests they can come to because we’re the “mercy specialists.” We know this message changes lives. Our role really is to just hand on this great gift to others so that their lives can be transformed through God. It’s awesome for us as Marians to be a part of what God is doing with this message. And this Mercy Congress is one more sign that God wants us to spread His mercy throughout the world.

* * * Learn more about the upcoming North American Congress on Mercy, to be held in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 14-15, including how to register. * * *

Father Donald Calloway, MIC, serves as vocation director of the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception. Visit his website, fathercalloway.com.

Be a part of the discussion. Add a comment now!

michael – Nov 12, 2009

To those in Europe and England,
who are asking Fr Don to come,
that would be awesome!
but, in the meantime, be active and prayerful as possible about the message of mercy yourself. Because of The Holy Spirit dwelling in you, you yourself can do what Fr Don is doing- right now- and produce those same fruits! Do you realize that?

Ask Jesus to multiply your effect- he can and will!
You are the leaven for people like Fr Don. Think of the fledgling communities of the new testament, how they longed for the apostle Paul to visit them! And oh how Paul longed to do so- but did Paul come immediately? No. But, did they stop hoping,because Paul could only be in one place at one time? No!
These people tilled the soil till a great apostle returned. And you know what? Many great priests and saints have creditied people JUST LIKE YOU for their conversion! Thats so correct. Most enormous conversions come from someone else’s prayers! Pray for more “Fr Dons” right in your own midst and God will send them, trust me.

All Im saying is dont get discouraged out there! Pray for the Holy Spirit to set on fire the hearts of the young! There are many Fr Dons out there just waiting to be “discovered”! It might need your witness- right now, and your fervent prayers- tonight to discover them!

Praise be Jesus and Mary!

liezy – Oct 27, 2009

Fr. Donald..you are a role model for us all to follow to jesus and Mary. Ever since I know you I started to read the devine mercy from saint faustina and say the chaplets and rosary every single day. You are a star Father! please come to The United Kingdom one day to preach. Young kids like us need lots and lots of good priests like you. You are not afraid to speak the truth and I have great enormous respect for you. I have seen your website and I think it’s cool! you are the best!! keep up with the good work Father. God bless you and everyone in your congregation.

Editor – Oct 21, 2009

For anyone in the Buffalo, N.Y, area, there’s a bus pilgrimage to the North American Congress on Mercy. Call 716-662-0156.

Amylisa – Oct 19, 2009

Fr. Donald, you are one of the instruments Jesus used in drawing me to the Church and also to His Mother. You are in my prayers, I am so thankful for you! God bless and keep you always, you’re an inspiration to me and to so many others.

daisyholland2005 – Oct 19, 2009

Its a pity that we’re living in The Netherlands and unable to come to hear you preach Father Donald. I think Europe ( especially in The Netherlands now) needs priests like you to remind them that God is Mercy. Every one’s talking about you. Dutch people over here are very radical..and many Churches got shut down as a result and it’s just so sad. It would be so wonderful if you could come over to Europe to preach Father..I’m sure millions will repent and return back to The Devine Mercy and his mother Mary. We hope that you would one day come over to Europe to preach.
European people are in need of priests like you Father.
May God bless you and all the Marian priests.

Sophie – Oct 18, 2009

Thank you, Father for reminding us that we can practice mercy by doing little things with great love. I am looking forward to the conference next month.

Prudence – Oct 18, 2009

Thank you Fr. Donald and all of the Marians for doing so much to spread the message of Divine Mercy. The world really needs to hear this message so please continue to do what you do. God bless you!

Erica T – Oct 17, 2009

How exciting, I wish I could attend. Will you ever have one on the west coast? We are in great need of the divine mercy out here.

mary – Oct 16, 2009

fr.donald your book,may be of importants on the mother of god,since churches are getting closed and praying for mission churches to come back your in my prayers god bless you in your journey

maryS – Oct 16, 2009

praying for your in this big event,Are you coming to the Philippines this November 20,22,23 for the upcoming AACOM congress?I am sure million of the devotees of the Divine Mercy will love to hear from you,God bless you Father.

Mercy Takes to the Airwaves

Following the concluding Mass of the first-ever World Apostolic Congress on Mercy (WACOM), held in Rome in April 2008, Pope Benedict XVI gave Congress delegates from around the world “a mandate” to “go forth and be witnesses of God’s mercy.”

Those words not only laid the groundwork for the upcoming North American Congress on Mercy (NACOM) in November, they became the inspiration for a book, Pope Benedict’s Divine Mercy Mandate (Marian Press), by David Came, executive editor of Marian Helper magazine. The book, released in January, has since become the field guide, of sorts, for understanding how and why mercy has become the Church’s top talking point.

Mr. Came was the guest on EWTN Radio’s “Catholic Connection,” with host Teresa Tomeo, on Friday, Oct. 25, where he discussed his book and the upcoming mercy congress.

***We invite you to listen to the interview.***

“As people know who have studied Pope Benedict’s speeches,” Mr. Came told Ms. Tomeo, “he chooses his words with great care. So to use the word ‘mandate,’ and to use such strong language about going forth and being witnesses of God’s mercy for every person and for the whole world is phenomenal.”

As Mr. Came noted, the fruits of the Holy Father’s mandate is being writ large this year and next, as continental congresses are being held around the world as a follow-up to WACOM.

On Nov. 14-15, at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., the Church will hold the first-ever North American Congress on Mercy with a specific goal of fulfilling this mercy “mandate” given to us by the Holy Father. The theme for the Congress is “Mercy: Our Hope.”

“People will be hearing inspiring witnesses,” said Mr. Came. “They will be inspired to go back and live Divine Mercy in their own parishes, prayer groups or what have you.”

The speakers will include:

• Dr. Scott Hahn, an internationally known speaker and author, who will give a talk titled “Lord Have Mercy.”
• Theresa Bonopartis, who has been involved in post-abortion work and counseling for 20 years. She will address the Congress on the topic “Where Mercy Meets Faithfulness,” touching on how God not only healed her from an abortion but also radically changed her life.
• Dr. John Bruchalski, MD, who founded the Tepeyac Family Center in Fairfax, Va., in 1994, an obstetrical and gynecological facility that combines the best of modern medicine with the healing presence of Jesus Christ — providing affordable healthcare to women, in particular, those with crisis pregnancies. In 2000, he founded Divine Mercy Care, a non-profit organization performing spiritual and corporal works of mercy in northern Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia.
• Kellie Ross, who will give a talk titled “Imitating Christ through the Image of Divine Mercy.” She is the co-founder and director of Missionaries of Our Lady of Divine Mercy in Manassas Va., which operates the House of Mercy, a thrift store that provides free clothing and new shoes as well as spiritual resources to the poor and needy.
• Sister Mary Joseph, OP, who will give a talk titled “God Be Praised for His Mercies.” She is a member of the Dominican Sisters of Hawthorne, who preach the sanctity of life by caring for incurable cancer patients in the United States and in Kenya who do not have the resources to pay for the care they need.
• Father Donald Calloway, MIC, who will speak on the topic “Mary: Mother and Masterpiece of Mercy.” A convert to Catholicism, Fr. Donald is a member of the Congregation of Marians of the Immaculate Conception.
• Father Patrice Chocholski, who will give the concluding reflection. From the Diocese of Lyon, France, Fr. Patrice is a well-known lecturer and theologian on The Divine Mercy message. Cardinal Christoph Schonborn of the Archdiocese of Vienna, Austria, commissioned him to coordinate last year’s WACOM.
• Most Rev. William Lori, STD, the Bishop of Bridgeport, Conn., and the episcopal advisor to the North American Congress on Mercy. Bishop Lori will be the principal celebrant of Holy Mass on Saturday evening.
• Father Seraphim Michalenko, MIC, who will serve as homilist for the 10 a.m. Mass on Sunday. Father Seraphim is a world-renowned expert in the message of The Divine Mercy. He served as vice-postulator for the canonization cause of St. Faustina Kowalska, whose revelations in the 1930s led to the modern Divine Mercy movement. He serves as director of the Association of Marian Helpers in Stockbridge, Mass.

Why Mercy?
Ms. Tomeo noted how since Pope Benedict was elected in 2005, he has seemed to put his “stamp of approval” on the work of his predecessor, Pope John Paul II, who was known as the “Great Mercy Pope.” In his writings and homilies, Pope John Paul II described Divine Mercy as the answer to the world’s problems. He beatified and canonized Sr. Faustina. He established Divine Mercy Sunday (the feast day associated with the message of The Divine Mercy) as a feast day for the entire Church.

Mr. Came agreed. Pope Benedict, he said, has not only solidified the Divine Mercy legacy of his predecessor, but has taken that legacy further by declaring the Mercy Congress — the first time in more than 100 years that the Church chose to emphasize a specific, vital aspect of the faith by declaring a Congress in its name.

“In his first message as our Holy Father, [Pope Benedict] spoke of having received a gift of Divine Mercy through the intercession of Pope John Paul II,” said Mr. Came in explaining why he wrote the book. “So that begged the question: Is he the next mercy Pope?

“During the three years that I studied his papacy and what he has said about Divine Mercy,” Mr. Came continued, “it became very clear to me that he is our new mercy Pope, following in the footsteps of Pope John Paul II.”

Mr. Came added that the Mercy Congress is not merely the result of Papal enthusiasm for the message of The Divine Mercy, but the result of a grassroots groundswell. Through the message of Divine Mercy, Catholics around the world have been rediscovering the core of the Gospel — that God is, first and foremost, our Merciful Father who seeks to extend mercy to us all, regardless of our sins and shortcomings. God wants us to receive His mercy and share it with others.

“So many people are convinced that their sins are unforgivable,” Ms. Tomeo said.

“As long as the heart is beating there’s a chance for repentance and conversion,” Mr. Came said.

NACOM will preceded by a Divine Mercy Networking Forum on Friday, Nov. 13, hosted by the Marians and held at the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center in Washington, D.C.

To learn more about the Mercy Congress and the Divine Mercy Networking Forum, please visit mercycongress.org. You can register for either event or both by clicking here.

Promoting Mercy and NACOM

By Dan Valenti (Aug 3, 2009)
Rick St. Hilaire isn’t your “typical” Divine Mercy devotee, if such a thing exists. Every workday as district attorney in Grafton County, N.H., the law requires that he be concerned with justice, not mercy.

As chief prosecutor and senior law enforcement official in northwestern New Hampshire, he spends his days fighting on behalf of victims of homicide, arson, sexual assaults, and other type of egregious crime.

But, again, Rick St. Hilaire isn’t your “typical” district attorney. He has a strong devotion to the message of Divine Mercy that colors his approach to enforcing the law. Justice demands punishment while mercy requires forgiveness: How do the two seeming opposites intermingle?

“Administering justice is a responsibility given to me as a prosecuting attorney,” Rick says. “While justice is rooted in jurisprudence and legal precedents, mercy is typically a function of the individuals who apply the law. That is why it might be said that justice operates under the law while mercy operates through trust.

“Saint Faustina Kowalska provides insight into the operation of mercy and how it’s distributed when she explains that trust is an essential condition to receive mercy,” he says. “So when an offender takes responsibility for committing a crime and places trust in those with authority, it is possible to attain mercy.”

To deepen his knowledge of Divine Mercy, Rick plans to attend the North American Congress on Mercy, Nov. 14-15, at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., where he first learned of Divine Mercy while in the nation’s capital as a law student. Rick sees this as part of his plan to help develop the growth of the Divine Mercy message and devotion in his parish.

With the permission of his pastor, Fr. William Kaliyadan of Sacred Heart Parish in Lebanon, Rick is organizing a bus group to make the pilgrimage to the Congress.

“So far, my volunteer work for the Congress is in organizing this parish trip,” Rick says. “Other than that, I wrote an e-mail offering to volunteer and have not been told what might need to be done. God will let me know what I’m doing, I am sure.”

Rick also says he has met with Fr. Kaliyadan about forming a Divine Mercy prayer group. His pastor has become interested in the message of God’s mercy.

“My hope is that NACOM will contribute to the revitalization of the Catholic Church in America by broadcasting the message of Divine Mercy,” he says. “This message strengthens vocations to religious life, restores broken families, promotes a culture of life, and reignites cooled faith.”

Rick hopes that by attending NACOM, he can find “a fresh approach” to experience God’s love and to share it with others “so mercy can be put into action.” He intends to do this at the local level, in his parish, where he can have the most impact.

If, like Rick, you want to put mercy into action through NACOM, visit mercycongress.org.

Be a part of the discussion. Add a comment now!

Joesph – Aug 9, 2009

The important of what Rick is doing is provising an example of the integration of one’s work (and daily life) and living a spiritual life. All of a person’s life IS spiritual. His work speaks for itself, as does his intentions for the North American Congress on MErcy. In thankfulness, blessing, joy, peace, love, and gratitude for sharing his story.

Marietta Po – Aug 7, 2009

im thankful for the divine mercy message w/c ive read frm rick i pray n cont reading yhanking God of rick’s faith.

Randall – Aug 6, 2009

This dilemma has often puzzled me, tha balance between justice and mercy. This article helps explain it as best as I have ever read. Thank God for men like Rick, who live their faith, which is what we all need to do, regardless of our occupations in life.

Liffy – Aug 4, 2009

Wonderful story of a man who puts his faith into action. I wish Rick all the best and will keep him in my prayers.

EFI, Vandergrift, – Aug 4, 2009

Rick will succeed! From several states away, I can feel his energy and Trust, and pray that more of us will become committed to The Divine Mercy.

‘Mercy and Hope’ – Congress Plans Take Shape

Father Kazimierz Chwalek, MIC (left), and Fr. Matthew Mauriello (right), met in March with Fr. Joseph Holcomb, the associate rector and director of pilgrimages for the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, where the congress will be held in November.

Mercy Congress Plans Take Shape

Scott Hahn To Be Among the Speakers

Popular Catholic author Dr. Scott Hahn will be among the speakers at the North American Congress on Mercy (NACOM), set for Nov. 14-15, at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, in Washington, D.C.

“The theme of ‘Mercy: Our Hope,’ will orient this important event,” said Fr. Matthew Mauriello, Congress president. “It will serve as a kind of ‘North star’ in pointing our plans to emphasize hope as an offshoot of mercy. The relationship between mercy and hope will be explored and shown in action during this great meeting.”

“Please mark your calendars and plan to join us for this wonderful opportunity to learn more about the abundant mercy of the Lord and to put mercy into practice in our own lives,” Fr. Matthew said.

Hahn, who has delivered numerous talks nationally and internationally as well as released many books and videotapes related to Scripture and the Catholic faith, will speak at 9:30 a.m., on Saturday, Nov. 14. He is a professor of theology and scripture at Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio, where he has taught since 1990. Hahn is author of the bestseller The Lamb’s Supper and other bestselling titles.

That morning at 7:30 a.m., registration for the Congress begins with a welcome and prayer by Fr. Matthew, slated from 9 to 9:30. Father Matt is pastor of Holy Rosary Church in Bridgeport, Conn. The Most Rev. William J. Lori, Bishop of Bridgeport and Episcopal Adviser to NACOM, appointed Fr. Matt as Congress president in 2007.

The Marians of the Immaculate Conception have been assisting Bishop Lori and Fr. Matthew with much of the planning and logistical work for the Congress. The North American Congress is one of several continental congresses being held this year and next as a follow-up to the first World Apostolic Congress on Mercy in Rome last year.

From 10:15 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, Teresa Bonapartis, who has been involved in post-abortion work and counseling for 20 years, will address the Congress. She is director of Lumina, a post-abortion referral service that operates under the auspices of Good Counsel Homes founded by Christopher Bell and Fr. Benedict Groeschel, CFR.

Following a break and testimonials by witnesses, lunch will be served continuous with time for confessions, from 12:30 to 2:15 p.m. At 2:15 p.m., Fr. Donald Calloway, MIC, will speak. Father Calloway’s dramatic conversion story has been captivating audiences for years, providing a compelling witness to God’s mercy. He is the author of Purest of All Lilies: The Virgin Mary in the Spirituality of St. Faustina and editor of two books on Mary.

Following Fr. Donald’s talk, the day concludes with a holy hour (3 to 4:15 p.m.) and a vigil Mass at 5:15 p.m. On Sunday, NACOM concludes with a closing Mass. The main celebrant for the Sunday Mass had not yet been announced.

Register for NACOM

‘A Grace-Filled Opportunity’

During the World Apostolic Congress on Mercy in Rome in April 2008, Bishop Lori urged attendees of the mercy congress to build a civilization based on love. How? Through the spiritual and corporal works of mercy.

By Dan Valenti (Jan 13, 2009)
The adjective “episcopal” means “of or pertaining to a bishop.” When the Church uses the episcopal label, therefore, it signifies an action or event of great import.

In his role as episcopal advisor to the upcoming North American Congress on Mercy (NACOM), set for Nov. 14-15 in Washington, D.C., Bishop William E. Lori of the Diocese of Bridgeport, Conn., understands that he represents a line of continuity to Pope Benedict XVI. It was Pope Benedict, who approved the first World Apostolic Congress on Mercy (April 2008 in Rome) as well as blessing and encouraging its mission.

Through World Congress President Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, Archbishop of Vienna, Austria, the Pope has given Bishop Lori the key role of advisor in planning the North American Congress. Working closely with his point man for day-to-day NACOM administration — Fr. Matthew Mauriello, pastor of Holy Rosary Church in Bridgeport and NACOM president — Bishop Lori sees the format of a Congress as a good match for as powerful a message as God’s mercy.

Bishop Lori was interviewed about NACOM by this reporter.

“Any Congress is a grace-filled opportunity to gain a deeper and more profound knowledge and understanding of the subject, in this case, Divine Mercy,” Bishop Lori says. “Whether it be a Marian, Eucharistic, or Mercy Congress, the speakers help to give us, the participants, wonderful points for meditation. I hope that all of us will leave the Congress with positive resolutions to put into action what we have been inspired to do through participating in the Congress.”

Bishop Lori says God’s mercy is a crucial subject.

“We are in a difficult time in the world,” Bishop Lori says. “We need to rely on the goodness of the Lord more than ever. Part of the mercy message includes, ‘Jesus, I trust in You!’ This is certainly a time when we need to trust in the Lord as we embark on a new year with all the challenges that face our world, our nation, and each of us individually.”

Bishop Lori says each of us should learn more about mercy, particularly the spiritual and corporal works of mercy.

“In that way,” he says, “we can see how to bring mercy to others. We are in this world to know, love, and serve the Lord. We serve Him by being of service to others in their needs. It is important for the hierarchy and laity alike to realize that the mercy of God is not a new phenomenon or topic. It is scripturally based, and we can see the merciful action of God at work throughout the ages in both the Old and New Testaments. The very fact that Jesus was sent ‘for our salvation,’ as the ‘the Creed’ puts it, was itself an act of mercy on the part of heaven.”

Bishop Lori notes the phenomenal interest people have taken in the message of Divine Mercy.

“This is part of the providential plan of the Lord Himself,” Bishop Lori says. “In the 1930s, Jesus chose St. Faustina as His instrument to bring His tender mercy to the forefront and give new emphasis to His enduring message of love for each one of us. The faithful are accepting and assimilating this message, and it has blossomed and flourished.”

Bishop Lori notes that the executive board of the United States Conference of Bishops, of which he is a member, will be meeting in Baltimore the same weekend of NACOM. He says he is hopeful that he, along with his brother bishops, will be able to attend “some of the events after the morning session, in particular, Holy Mass at 5:15 p.m. [on Nov. 14].”

He closed the interview with a blessing: “With all my heart, I am pleased to bless all those who are working so hard to make the Congress a great success, as well as all those who will make the sacrifice and participate.”

‘Mercy: Our Hope’

By Dan Valenti (Sep 11, 2008)
The 2009 North American Congress on Mercy will take “Mercy: Our Hope” as its theme. The gathering is set for Nov. 14-15 in Washington, D.C.

Planning began in June and will continue for the next several months. Though the lineup of events and speakers has yet to be finalized, the executive board identified its theme early to provide an overall direction.

The Congress will be conducted at the National Basilica of the Immaculate Conception at 400 Michigan Ave. NE and the Pope John Paul II Cultural Center at 3900 Harewood Rd. NE. Planners may also make use of Catholic University of America at 620 Michigan Ave. The venues have strong Catholic identities and are located within walking distance of each other.

‘A Kind of North Star’
“The theme of ‘Mercy: Our Hope,’ will orient this important event,” says Fr. Matthew Mauriello, Congress coordinator president. “It will serve as a kind of ‘North star’ in pointing our plans to emphasize hope as an offshoot of mercy. The relationship between mercy and hope will be explored and shown in action during this great meeting.”

Continental Congresses are being held around the world in 2009 and 2010 as a follow-up to the World Apostolic Congress on Mercy held in Rome in April.

“The focus will be on expanding the message of mercy and love,” says Fr. Kazimierz Chwalek, MIC, Marian director of evangelization and development and Congress vice president. “We want to let others know that while a significant part of this message is St. Faustina’s devotion, mercy isn’t tied to any particular saint. Divine Mercy itself, as revealed by Jesus to St. Faustina, should be the focus.”

An Emphasis on Action
Father Seraphim Michalenko, MIC, director of the Marian Helpers Association, says action will be a key Congressional component: “We are made by a loving God to receive His mercy, but we must also extend that mercy to others. Mercy is something you live and do.”

A goal of the Congress, reflected in its sub-theme of “Learn Mercy, Love Mercy, Live Mercy,” will be to develop the motif of “mercy in action.” Ecumenism and interfaith dialogue are expected to provide other themes. An ecumenical and inter-religious gathering is tentatively planned for Friday, Nov. 13, before the Congress opens.

The Congress will examine mercy from three perspectives: scriptural, sacramental/liturgical, and spiritual/social.

Answers and Questions
“This Congress will re-focus and re-energize people’s spirit for God’s mercy,” says Fr. Matthew. “We will ask as well as answer. We will ask, ‘How can we learn to live in God’s mercy? How can we bring mercy into our specific parishes and individual lives? How can we motivate Catholics to engage in personal ministries to receive and give mercy?'”

As a follow-up to the North American Congress, diocesan and regional events will continue through 2010. Parishes will also be encouraged to sponsor mercy events.

For more information, contact Peter Markavage at the Marian Helpers Center toll-free at 1-800-462-7426 or by e-mail at pmarkavage@marian.org.

Dan Valenti writes for numerous publications of the Marians of the Immaculate Conception, both in print and online. He is the author of “Dan Valenti’s Journal’ at thedivinemercy.org.

Be a part of the discussion. Add a comment now!

Stephanie Melgoza – Jun 27, 2012

taken no short cut…be true in the heart as it will match up with action. Believe in God with all your heart soul and mind. Father’s will be done not out. pray together. Turn all over to God as we focus on who he is not our self.

Moderator – Jan 26, 2009

It should be open to anyone who wants to attend.

PC – Jan 25, 2009

Who is allowed to attend this Congress? Is it open to all lay people or only Religious. It sounds wonderful.

P. – Sep 11, 2008

As we are on another anniv. of 9/11 and as Marians who carry the charism of ‘prevention’ that is revealed to us in the Mercy of Immaculate Conception, hope that this congresss and all such endeavors would help us to learn – how to prevent .. the genocide in Rwanda ..WW11 , communism ..the threats of militant hindusim in India ..true ,we do have bl.Mother’s words – about the connection between sin and wars… .and we all know how much each can do at this one level – yet , these may be areas that need to be retold – constantly, so that God’s children would not run to the Egypt of this world for its unworkable solutions or preventive focus ! May His Mercy guide us and protect us !

‘NACOM’ Plans Underway for 2009

Planning is now under way for the North American Congress on Mercy (NACOM), with the Marians of the Immaculate Conception providing key strategic direction.

NACOM will take place Nov. 14-15, 2009, in Washington, D.C. Organizers are focusing on specific plenary sessions, agenda items, and venues as part of an extensive follow-up to the World Apostolic Congress on Mercy held in April this year in Rome. There may also be an ecumenical and inter-religious gathering on the evening of Friday, Nov. 13, 2009. Following the main event, regional and diocesan events will continue in North America through 2010. Some preparatory events are also being planned for earlier in 2009.

Father Kazimierz Chwalek, MIC, Marian director of Evangelization and Development, serves as NACOM vice president. NACOM President Fr. Matthew M. Mauriello, a pastor of a parish in Bridgeport, Conn., in opening a planning session July 15 on Eden Hill in Stockbridge, Mass., thanked and acknowledged the Marians for their “outstanding contributions to this enormous outreach effort for mercy.”

Father Mauriello announced plans to form an executive committee consisting of Church leaders in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. These leaders will provide NACOM with direction and support.

Though planning for NACOM is in its early stages, Fr. Kaz says he is excited about the gathering’s possibilities for ecumenical and inter-religious dialogue. “We will borrow from the World Congress and make this event in Washington an ecumenical and inter-religious gathering.”

Be a part of the discussion. Add a comment now!

Moderator – Feb 25, 2009

Our special NACOM web page will keep you up to date on all the latest news regarding the Mercy Congress. We are currently gathering information on lodging opportunities. We will make that information available within the next few weeks. As to the Divine Mercy Conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on June 27, please call Margaret Bieza, 651-778-1941, for more information.

Rita Oliver – Feb 21, 2009

I was not able to attend WACOM, but want very much to attend NACOM. When will there be information concerning housing arrangements during NACOM? I am from Minnesota and have never visited the Washington, DC area. Will there be information such as this coming in future?

Also, in the Marian Helper magazine, there are listed Divine Mercy events for different areas of the country on page 10. Will there be any details coming concerning the Divine Mercy Conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota on June 27th, 2009?

I very much want to attend both the local conference and NACOM so that I can share what I learn with my Bishop. So far, my efforts to communicate the message of Divine Mercy through our diocesan newspaper haven’t been successful, YET!

Ann Ambrogi – Feb 19, 2009

Howq do I get to attend the Congress. I would love to help and I live in Fredericksburg Virginia

Tom Kuna-Jacob – Feb 9, 2009

Praise the Divine Mercy! I hope the Meeting: “Toward a New Christian Alliance”, scheduled to take place just prior to the NACOM, could change its name to: “Toward a New Alliance of Religions”, in accordance with the “seven horns of the Lamb” (Rev. 5:5-6), and Vatican II’s declaration on the various different world religions, and which “seven horns” the AWPJ (“Assoc. for World Peace, Justice and the Messianic-Charismatic Dev. of Peoples”) interprets as the seven great world religions, at the propitious time for each, organized into 7 new rites of the Catholic Church, with their diverse streams, traditions and denominations, organized into semi-autonomous Orders of their respective Rites, each and all in Pro-Life Eucharistic Communion with the Apostolic Holy See.

Also, I hope that that Conference prior to the NACOM choose as its first theo-political effort, the following:

That the Legislatures of the 50 States pass non-binding resolutions petitioning the US Congress to initiate an Amendment to the US Constitution lifting the protections of the First Amendment from speech and press which is pornographic and/or meaninglessly violence-graphic, except to the minimum extent necessary to inform about the facts of history or current events, or as protected by Constitutional expressions of licit religion.

This to suppress such terrible films that their names should not even be expressed on this site, some of which have shown actual, gruesome murders.

We are spearheading the formation of a Central-Illinois Ministerial Alliance around this, and the NACOM and the Divine Mercy in particular.

Anyone wishing to read our organizing letter and draft US Constitutional Amendment is invited to e-mail us at:
tom_kuna_jacob@yahoo.com

Bob Allard – Jan 13, 2009

There will be a Divine Mercy Conference in Orlando on February 21st at the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe. Registration information will be available on January 16th on www.DivineMercySunday.com . This conference is geared towards priests and lay leaders in the Church who want to make the most out of Mercy Sunday.

Hope to see you all there in February.

Robert R. Allard, Director
Apostles of Divine Mercy

Olga E. Blake – Jan 13, 2009

I was blessed to have attended the World Congress on Mercy (WACOM), in Rome, April 2008. I received a healing miracle. I am looking forward to November,2009. Here goes a special “Hi” to all those pilgrims who were there with me.

Peace & Love of Christ,

Olga E. Blake

Miss Ronni – Nov 16, 2008

+JMJ It would have been very nice to have been able to attend the Congress in Rome Italy, but wasn’t able to do so. Now, I am just elated to learn that the Nov 2009 will take place in the holy Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, just 2 hrs from Richmond VA!! It is my prayerful hope that we can generate interest and charter buses to attend at least one day of the Congress. Blessed be God forever! These are some tyring times (what else is new under the Sun?) yet as Our Lord promised He would not leave us orphans! Thanking all organizers in advance for all their preparations! Be assured that this event will be promoted in Richmond and that interested souls here will pray entrusting all to Jesus through Mary and Joseph, Miss Ronni

Tony & Ethel Lapitan – Sep 20, 2008

We think that it would be a wonderful decision to hold a regional congress in Florida. We think that the Tampa Bay area would be a most central location. We would be very happy to work with you on arrangements for such a congress. We have access to four cenacles of Divine Mercy within the Diocese of St. Petersburg and perhaps even ten. A good central place is St. Lawrence parish in Tampa. We would be interested in getting additional comments.

Bob Allard – Sep 4, 2008

Incredible… almost exactly 10 years since the great Divine Mercy Symposium in Washington D.C. back in 1999. I am very excited about this NACOM. Can we organize one in Florida early in 2009 to help prepare for Mercy Sunday 2009?

Anyone interested, contact me at our website: www.DivineMercySunday.com

Sincerely for souls,

Robert R. Allard

Pope Sends Delegates Forth

In an address on Sunday, Pope Benedict XVI encouraged all who participated in the first World Mercy Congress.

Benedict Urges Participants: ‘Be Witnesses of Mercy’

By Dan Valenti (Apr 6, 2008)
“Go to the world and be witnesses of Divine Mercy,” Pope Benedict XVI urged participants in the historic first World Mercy Congress held last week in Rome (April 2-6). The Pope made the remark in his Regina Caeli address at noon Sunday. He delivered his brief address from a window at the papal apartments overlooking St. Peter’s Square.

The Regina Caeli came following the Congress’ closing Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica celebrated by Cardinal Christoph Schönborn of Austria, congress president.

Here is Benedict’s message from Sunday regarding the World Mercy Congress:

This morning, with the Eucharistic celebration in St. Peter’s [Basilica], the first World Congress on Divine Mercy has ended. I would like to thank the organizers and particularly all the participants. It is a greeting that has become a gift. Go to the world and be witnesses of Divine Mercy, the source of hope for any man and the source of hope for the world as a whole. May the Risen Lord be with you.

After his address, Pope Benedict lunched with Cardinal Schönborn. Speaking to congressional planners later in the wrap-up strategic session, the Cardinal said the Pope peppered him with questions. “The Pope wanted to know all about the congress.” The Cardinal said he told the Pope that the week had been a great success, citing the presence of thousands of people from throughout the world who traveled to Rome despite great difficulties.

The Cardinal quoted the Pope as saying, “It is impressive to see Divine Mercy spreading throughout the world.” He said Pope Benedict asked him to convey his personal thanks and blessings to all who were involved.

Pope Benedict has been an enthusiastic backer of the World Mercy Congress from the beginning. The Pope launched the congress on Wednesday (April 2) by celebrating Mass in St. Peter’s Square. In his homily, he urged delegates to be steadfast in their commitment to live the values taught by Divine Mercy.

The Closing Mass: ‘ The Triumph of Living Mercy’

Cardinal Schönborn encourages Congress participants to follow the example of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus.

Only Hearts Transformed by Christ Can Transform the World

Since the first-ever World Apostolic Congress on Mercy did nothing short of inflame the hearts of thousands, it could no nothing less than conclude with a mandate.

That mandate was delivered Sunday by Cardinal Christopher Schönborn, the celebrant of the congress’s closing Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica.

“We are now departing after the blessed days of this congress,” he said in his homily, “and we are putting ourselves on the road with burning hearts to be everywhere and always with the Lord as witnesses of His immeasurable mercy.”

He alluded to the societies to which many of the pilgrims return, societies where corruption, poverty and injustice run rampant, where economic interests trump the public good, and where humanity is often stripped of its dignity. Only hearts transformed by Christ can transform the world, he said.

“There are today many disillusioned people,” he said. Such disillusionment, he said, prompts people to ask: “Is God watching? Is justice impotent? Why all the suffering? Where is the power of the arm of God in all this misery and poverty?”

After four full days of delving deep into heart of the gospel message of mercy, the congress participants had filed in for the morning Mass under Michelangelo’s silver-blue dome. An awe-inspiring week ended at an awe-inspiring location, and with a gospel reading that proved to be, in Cardinal Schönborn’s words, “a beautiful coincidence.”

It was from Luke 24:13-35, the story of two disciples on the road to Emmaus from Jerusalem on the third day after Christ’s death. The two disciples, too, are feeling disillusioned and dejected, until they meet Christ on the road. It’s the journey of every Christian. The two don’t yet know He is the Lord God. Seeing that they are disheartened, He uses the Scriptures to explain that the Messiah had to suffer and die to enter into his glory. He begins to reignite their faith. They see He is in need of food and shelter. Through their hospitality toward Him, they come to see He is the Risen Lord and make haste to proclaim the Good News.

Cardinal Schönborn said that, similarly, we can encounter Christ by opening our hearts to receive His word and through showing hospitality to the many in need.

“What an example for us, to prepare for our encounter with Christ through our hospitality,” said Cardinal Schönborn, who presided over the previous four days of talks, prayer and celebration. “‘Be merciful as Your Father is merciful.’ How many times in living and performing simple works of mercy we have been able to experience the closeness of the Lord. The history of the success of Christianity is not a story of military triumphs or political triumphs. It is rather the triumph of living mercy. Only in this way can you become convinced. The words can be beautiful, but in the end they are only words. But the acts of mercy, instead, are indisputable.”