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Bishop Anthony's Message for Divine Mercy Sunday

Sunday 24 April 2022
Divine Mercy Sunday

My Fathers, Deacons, my sisters and brothers in Christ,

It is with the joy of this Easter Octave that I announce the establishment of two Diocesan Shrines for the veneration of the relics of Saint Pope John Paul II and Saint Faustina Kowalska. For the spiritual benefit of all the faithful the Diocese has obtained first-class relics of these two Saints.

For the Divine Retreat Centre, Somersby we have been able to secure a first-class relic of Saint Faustina’s bone. This Relic will be installed today, on Divine Mercy Sunday. I have decreed that with the establishment of this Shrine, those who visit on the Feast Day of St Faustina, which occurs annually on 5 October, may obtain a partial indulgence.

We have also obtained a first-class relic of Saint Pope John Paul II’s hair. It is my intention to be present at St Patrick’s Church, East Gosford for the installation of this relic on his Feast Day, Saturday 22 October. The Faithful who visit this Shrine on his Feast Day, may obtain a partial indulgence. Under the guidance of Fr Grzegorz Skulski, a pastoral centre at Gosford Parish will be established in honour of Saint John Paul II.

I would like personally to thank both Fr Grzegorz Skulski SDS and Fr Roni George VC, along with their communities for their positive cooperation in the establishment of these shrines. I warmly invite you, my brothers and sisters in Christ to participate in pilgrimages to these shrines in the months and years ahead.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

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