Bishop Thomas John Paprocki | Diocese of Springfield

Catholic Times - March 22, 2024

In a personal reflection shared by Kaleb Hammond, a Catholic for 15 years, the profound impact of the sacrament of confession as an instrument of divine mercy is highlighted. Hammond's journey to Catholicism was one marked by a search for truth and objective good, ultimately leading him to find these in Christ through the Catholic Church.

Referencing the story of doubting Thomas, Hammond emphasizes the necessity for believers to trust in the authoritative tradition of the Church, even in times of doubt. He questions the prevalent attitude of presuming God's mercy without genuine repentance or seeking forgiveness for sins.

Highlighting the significance of the sacrament of confession, Hammond cites John chapter 20 verse 23, where Christ grants the Apostles and their successors the power to forgive sins in His name. He personally attests to the profound experience of receiving divine mercy and sanctifying grace through confession, underscoring its role in the believer's spiritual journey.

Drawing on the theme of Divine Mercy Sunday, Hammond stresses the transformative power of Christ's mercy in illuminating darkness and guiding believers to safety. He calls on fellow Catholics to embrace this message of hope, joy, and peace, encouraging a renewed commitment to evangelization and the alleviation of sin through the confession of sins and a steadfast faith in Christ.

This article originally appeared in missiodeicatholic.org and was reprinted with permission. Missio Dei, founded by Phillip Hadden, a parishioner of St. Alexius in Beardstown, continues to spread the message of divine mercy and the sacrament of confession within the Catholic community.