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Hello everyone,

Today, Saturday 19th April, we have 631 people from all over the world and from many Christian and some non-Christian denominations joining together in prayer.

All's back to normal again, thank God, and my Mom, sister and family are now in their new home. Monday saw the start of Holy Week for Christians and the lead into the most important celebration of the Christian calendar - Easter. The reflection this week focuses us on days leading into Easter Sunday, with particular emphasis on the Divine Mercy of God when He gave of himself - Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity - as the sacrificial lamb for our salvation on Good Friday. It is and was the time of His greatest Mercy.

Being unable to give time to a reflection over the past few weeks it is being made up now on the double! The prayers suggested for this week are from the Diary of St. Faustina, when Jesus
appeared to her requesting us to believe in His Divine Mercy. His request was to say the prayers as a 9-day Novena starting on Good Friday and ending on the Sunday after Easter, Divine Mercy Sunday in the Church calendar. I meant to get them out to you all yesterday but, as usual, I was passing myself out round corners. If you'd like to try and do the 9 days I'm sure the Good
Lord won't mind you saying Good Friday's and Holy Saturday's together. Tell Him it was all my fault! Of course, like any prayers they can be said any time outside of the days specified.

Of the 631 Prayer Warriors, 372 listed their denomination as Catholics. These would probably be seen as 'Catholic' prayers, daft eh? But I invite you all to read them through at least, and then decide whether you would like to try and do the 9 days. For those who aren't at all interested perhaps you might enjoy the reflection from Bob and Debbie Gass below. I've divided the reflection this week into two parts, the first, this one, with Bob & Debbie Gass' Reflection from The Word for Today called: The 'But God' factor! and the second email will contain the Divine Mercy prayers.

I've not had the time to do the weekly intentions now for a while but hopefully by next week I'll be 'back to normal'. May I take this chance to wish each and every one of a most Blessed, Holy and Peaceful Easter and to thank you again for your prayers and being part of the Circle of Prayer.

The 'But God' factor!

" BUT GOD...HATH RAISED US UP " EPHESIANS 2 : 4

Ultimately, there's nothing that can fill the emptiness of the human heart - but God. There's no solution to war, prejudice, and injustice - but God. There's no satisfaction for the cravings of the flesh - but God. There's no healing for the brokenhearted, lonely and desperate - but God. There's no turning point for human depravity - but God. There's no deliverance from addiction and heartache - but God. The 'But God' factor breaks every generational curse that reaches you through Adam's sin. One Greek translation of the word 'spirit', is 'air'. When you were 'dead in trespasses and sins' (Ephesians 2:1), God breathed divine air into you. Paul says, 'And you [He made alive], when you were dead [slain] by [your] trespasses and sins' (Ephesians 2:1 Amp). The truth is, you never really lived until you met the Lord!

The 'But God' factor turns tragedy into triumph. It's the turning point in your story. Hell would be partying today, 'but God' chose to lavish His mercy and grace on you. Listen: '...though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich' (2 Corinthians 8:9). Rich in wisdom. Rich in achievements. Rich in relationships. Rich in 'all things'.

Despite satan's efforts to destroy, diminish, defame and discourage you, God never once took His hand off your life. He brought you to an understanding of Jesus as your Saviour and Lord; now He's raising you up to fulfil His purposes. No matter how bad things may look today, rise up and declare 'But God!'

God Bless you all (email no. 2 following behind),

Mary in Galway

Part Two

On February 22nd. 1931 Jesus appeared to a young Polish nun. He gave Sr. Faustina (for herself only initially) a Novena to His Mercy. She was to start it on Good Friday, that wonderful day when Christ first revealed how merciful and loving He was, by dying for us.

Sr. Faustina wrote in her diary that she began the Novena for the conversion of the whole world that all may recognise God's Mercy and that all souls may speak of His Goodness. You can read the
history of Sr. Faustina and The Divine Mercy Chaplet and Novena at the following link:

http://www.circleofprayer.com/divine-mercy-history.html

Jesus said: "I desire the confidence of My people. Let not even the weak and very sinful fear to approach Me, even if their sins be as numerous as all the sands of the earth they will be forgiven in the fathomless pit of My Mercy."

She received instructions on how to make this Novena:

"During these nine days I want you to lead souls to the Fount of My Mercy, in order that they may draw from it strength, refreshment and all the graces they need in the trials of their lives, especially at the hour of death. Each day you will lead a different group of souls and immerse them in the sea of My Mercy. Each day You will beseech the Father through My Bitter Passion for graces for these souls."

This Novena can be made at any time, but Our Lord especially wished that it be made beginning Good Friday in preparation for the Feast of His Mercy, which should be celebrated on the first Sunday after Easter. He told her:

"The souls that will go to confession, in preparation, and communion on this day will obtain a complete remission of all sin and all punishment. .... On each day You will bring to My Heart a different group of souls and You will immerse them in this ocean of My Mercy, and I will bring all these souls into the House of My Father ...  on each day you will beg My Father, on the strength of My Bitter Passion, for graces for these souls."

Open each day with the Chaplet to the Divine Mercy then say the prayer for the day's intention following the Chaplet below. Start with:

The Lord's Prayer:

Our Father Who art in Heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name; Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven; Give us this day our daily bread; And Forgive us our trespasses, As we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Amen

Hail Mary:

Hail Mary full of Grace, the Lord is with Thee, Blessed art Thou among Women and Blessed is the Fruit of Thy womb, Jesus.

Holy Mary Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen

Apostles' Creed:

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He
suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life
everlasting.  Amen.

On starting and on the 4 large Rosary beads say:

Eternal Father, I offer You to Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your Dearly Beloved Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world.

On each of the 10 small Rosary beads say:

For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

Conclude by saying three times:

Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

First Day (Good Friday or start of the 9-day Novena)

"Today bring to me all mankind, especially all sinners, and immerse them in the ocean of my mercy. In this way you will console me in the bitter grief into which the loss of souls plunges me."

Most merciful Jesus, whose very nature it is to have compassion on us to forgive us, do not look upon our sins, but upon our trust which we place in Your infinite goodness. Receive us all into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart, and never let us escape from it. We beg this of You by Your love which unites You to the Father and the Holy Spirit. Eternal Father, turn Your Merciful gaze upon all mankind and especially upon poor sinners, all enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. For the sake of His Sorrowful Passion show us Your Mercy, that we may praise the infinite power of Your Mercy, forever and forever. Amen."

Second Day

"Today bring to me the souls of Priests and Religious and immerse them in my unfathomable mercy. It was they who gave me strength to endure my bitter passion. Through them, as though channels, my mercy flows out upon mankind."

Most Merciful Jesus, from whom comes all that is good, increase Your grace in men and women consecrated to Your service that they perform worthy works of mercy, and that all who see them may glorify the Father of Mercy who is in Heaven. Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the company of chosen ones in Your vineyard - upon the souls of Priests and Religious - and endow them with the strength of Your Blessing. For the Love of the Heart of Your Son in which they are enfolded, impart to them Your Power and Light, that they may be able to guide others in the way of salvation, and with one voice sing praise to Your boundless Mercy for ages without end. Amen

Third Day

"Today bring to me all devout and faithful souls and immerse them in the ocean of my mercy. These souls brought me consolation on the Way of the Cross. They were that drop of consolation in the
midst of an ocean of bitterness."

Most Merciful Jesus, from the treasury of Your Mercy, You impart Your graces in great abundance to each and all. Receive us into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart and never let us escape from it. We beg this grace of You by that most wondrous love for the heavenly Father with which Your Heart burns so fiercely. Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon faithful souls, as upon
the inheritance of Your Son. For the sake of His Sorrowful Passion grant them Your blessing and surround them with Your constant protection. Thus may they never fail in love or lose the treasure of
the Holy Faith, but rather, with all the hosts of Angels and Saints, may they glorify Your boundless Mercy for endless ages. Amen

Fourth Day

"Today bring to me those who do not believe in God and those who do not yet know me. I was thinking also of them during my bitter passion, and their future zeal comforted my heart. Immerse them in the ocean of my mercy."

Most Compassionate Jesus, You are the Light of the whole world. Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who as yet do not believe in You or do not know You.
Let the rays of Your Grace enlighten them that they, too, together with us, may extol Your wonderful Mercy, and do not let them escape from the abode which is Your Compassionate Heart. Eternal
Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls who do not believe in Your Son, and of those who as yet do not know You, but who are enclosed in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Draw them to the light of the Gospel. These souls do not know what great happiness it is to love You. Grant that they, too, may extol the generosity of Your Mercy for endless ages. Amen

Fifth Day

"Today bring to me the souls who have separated from my Church and immerse them in the ocean of my mercy. During my bitter passion they tore at my body and Heart, that is, my Church. As they return to unity with the Church, my wounds heal, and in this way they alleviate my passion."

Most Merciful Jesus, Goodness Itself, You do not refuse light to those who seek it of You. Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who have separated from Your Church. Draw them by Your Light into the unity of the Church, and do not let them escape from the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart; but bring it about that they, too, come to glorify the generosity of Your Mercy. Eternal Father, turn Your Merciful gaze upon the souls of those who are separated from Your Son's Church, especially those who have squandered Your Blessings and misused Your Graces by obstinately persisting in their errors. Do not look upon their errors, but upon the love of Your Own Son and upon His Bitter Passion, which He underwent for their sake, since they, too, are enclosed in His Most Compassionate Heart. Bring it about that they may glorify Your
great Mercy for endless ages. Amen

Sixth Day

"Today bring to me the meek and humble souls and the souls of little children and immerse them in my mercy. These souls most closely resemble my Heart. They strengthened me during my bitter agony. I saw them as earthly angels, who will keep vigil at my altars. I pour out upon them whole torrents of grace. Only the humble souls is capable of receiving my grace. I favour humble souls with my confidence."

Most Merciful Jesus, You Yourself have said "Learn from Me for I am meek and humble of heart". Receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart all meek and humble souls
and the souls of little children. These souls send all Heaven into ecstacy, and they are the Heavenly Father's favourites. They are a sweet-smelling bouquet before the Throne of God; God Himself
takes delight in their fragrance. These souls have a permanent abode in Your Most Compassionate Heart, O Jesus, and they unceasingly sing out a hymn of love and mercy. Eternal Father, turn Your Merciful gaze upon meek and humble souls and upon the souls of little children, who are enfolded in the abode which is the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. These souls bear the closest resemblance to Your Son. Their fragrance rises from the earth and reaches Your very Throne. Father of Mercy and of all Goodness, I beg You by the love You bear these souls and by the delight You take in them. Bless the whole world, that all souls together may sing out the praises of Your Mercy for endless ages. Amen

Seventh Day

"Today bring to me the souls who especially venerate and glorify my mercy and immerse them in my mercy. These souls sorrowed most over my passion and entered most deeply into my spirit. They are living images of my compassionate heart. These souls will shine with a special brightness in the next life. Not one of them will go into the fire of hell. I shall particularly defend each one of them at the hour of death."

Most Merciful Jesus, whose Heart is Love Itself, receive into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls of those who particularly extol and venerate the greatness of Your Mercy. These souls are mighty with the very power of God Himself. In the midst of all afflictions and adversities they go forward confident of Your Mercy. These souls are united to Jesus and carry all mankind on their shoulders. These soulks will not be judged severely, but Your Mercy will embrace them as they depart from this life. Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon the souls who glorify and venerate Your greatest atribute, that of Your fathomless Mercy, and who are enclosed in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. These souls are a living Gospel; their hands are full of deeds of mercy and their spirits, overflowing with joy, sing a canticle of mercy to You, O Most High! I beg You O God: show them Your Mercy according to the hope and trust they have placed in You. Let there be accomplished in them the Promise of Jesus, who said to them that during their life, but especially at the hour of death, the souls who will venerate this fathomless Mercy of His, He, Himself,
will defend as His Glory. Amen

Eighth Day

"Today bring to me the souls who are detained in purgatory and immerse them in the abyss of my mercy. Let the torrents of my Blood cool down their scorching flames. All these souls are really loved by me. They are making retribution to my justice. It is in your power to bring them relief. Draw all indulgences from the treasury of my Church and offer them on their behalf. Oh, if you only knew the torments they suffer, you would continually offer for them the alms of the spirit and pay off their debt for my justice."

Most Merciful Jesus, You Youself have said that You desire mercy; so I bring into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart the souls in Purgatory, souls who are very dear to You, and yet who
must make retribution to Your Justice. May the streams of Blood and Water which gushed forth from Your Heart put out the flames of the purifying fire, that in that place, too, the Power of Your Mercy
may be praised. Eternal Father, turn Your Merciful gaze upon the souls suffering in Purgatory, who are enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. I beg You, by the sorrowful Passion
of Jesus Your Son, and by all the bitterness with which His most Sacred Soul was flooded, manifest Your Mercy to the souls who are under Your Just Scrutiny. Look upon them in no other way than
through the Wounds of Jesus, Your Dearly Beloved Son; for we firmly believe that there is no limit to Your Goodness and Compassion. Amen

Ninth Day

"Today bring to me souls who have become lukewarm and immerse them in the abyss of my mercy. These souls wound my Heart most painfully. My soul sufferered the most dreadful loathing in the Garden of Olives because of lukewarm souls. They were the reason I cried out: "Father, take this cup away from me, if it be Your will". For them the last hope of salvation is to run to my mercy."

Most Compassionate Jesus, You are Compassion Itself. I bring lukewarm souls into the abode of Your Most Compassionate Heart. In this fire of Your Pure Love let these tepid souls, who, like corpses, filled You with such deep loathing, be once again set aflame. O Most Compassionate Jesus, exercise the omnipotence of Your Mercy and
draw them into the very ardour of Your Love; and bestow upon them the gift of Holy Love, for nothing is beyond Your power. Eternal Father, turn Your merciful gaze upon lukewarm souls who are nonetheless enfolded in the Most Compassionate Heart of Jesus. Father of Mercy, I beg You by the bitter passion of Your Son and by His three-hour agony on the Cross, let them too, glorify the Abyss of Your Mercy. Amen

God Bless you all and thanks a million for being part of the Circle of Prayer - the Prayer Warriors.

Mary Mullins in Galway, Ireland
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Please continue to say the following prayers for peace.

Three O'Clock Prayer to the Divine Mercy:

You expired, O Jesus, but the source of life gushed forth for souls and an ocean of mercy opened up for the whole world. O Fount of Life, unfathomable Divine Mercy, envelop the whole world and empty
Yourself out upon us. O Blood and Water, which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a fount of mercy for us, I trust in You. Amen

Prayer to Saint Michael:

"Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in the day of battle. Be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host, cast down to hell Satan and all his wicked spirits who wander through the world for the ruin of souls"

Prayer for Peace:

O God from whom all holy desires, all right counsels, and all just works do proceed. Give unto Thy servants that peace which the world cannot give, that our hearts may be set to obey Thy
Commandments, and that unafraid of our enemies, we may spend our days under Thy protection, in peaceful order, through Christ Our Lord, Amen. Mary, Queen of Peace, pray for us.

Pray before the Cross:

"Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the Father, send now Your Spirit over the earth. Let the Holy Spirit live in the hearts of all nations, that they may be preserved from degeneration, disaster and war. May
the Lady of All Nations, who once was Mary, be our Advocate. Amen."