Our Lord's Mercy grants forgiveness of all sins and punishment on the Feast of the Divine Mercy, mercy for even the most hardened sinners! April 19, 2009, the second Sunday of Easter was Divine Mercy Sunday. On April 18, 2009, ICAAA invited Fr. James McTavish, FMVD to lead us in examining our conscience and fully appreciate the graces that are poured unto us by God's Divine Mercy. Around 30 participants gathered at the ICA Chapel to hear Fr. James give a short talk on the doctrinal-spiritual preparation for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. He discussed what conscience is about and the seven capital sins namely pride, anger, lust, envy, greed, gluttony and laziness. After his short talk, everyone went for confession. Fr. James was assisted by Fr. Gersan in giving confession. Our Lord Jesus said, "The soul that will go to Confession and receive Holy Communion shall obtain complete forgiveness of sins and punishment. On that day all the divine floodgates through which graces flow are opened. Let no soul fear to draw near to Me, even though its sins be as scarlet. Mankind will not have peace until it turns to the Fount of My Mercy." (699) The plenary indulgence that was issued for Divine Mercy Sunday does not change the promises of Our Lord. Rather it provides the Church's highest mark of approval and endorsement and gives souls more time to go to Confession.” Everyone felt very happy after going to confession. Some of them have not even been to confession ever since they graduated from high school. Some shed tears during and after confession. |
An anticipated mass capped the event. The MIC nuns who were on retreat that day joined the mass. Light snack was served in the area beside the high school covered court.
Everyone unanimously agreed that it was a wonderful experience. The chapel was solemn enough for them to prepare for the sacrament of confession. Everybody agreed that they would want to have one again next year. ICAAA would like to thank Sr. Teresita Canivel and Sr. Dina Ang for allowing us to use the Chapel even if the school was closed. Here are excerpts from Fr. James talk: What is conscience?
In the depths of conscience, man detects a law which he does not impose upon himself, but which holds him to obedience. Always summoning him to love good and avoid evil.
Interiority
It is important for every person to be sufficiently present to himself in order to hear and follow the voice of his conscience. This requirement of interiority is all the more necessary as life often distracts us from any reflection, self-examination or introspection.
Seven Capital Sins - Pride - In what way does pride show itself in your life?
- Anger - With whom do we become angry?
- Lust - Is my gaze pure?
- Envy - Do I not value the many blessings God has given me?
- Greed and Gluttony - Am I a giver or a taker?
- Laziness - Does my love for comfort or an easy life stop me from doing God's will?
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