Divine Mercy Novena & Instructions

Divine Mercy Novena

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You Are Loved: Divine Mercy For Your Family

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This beautifully illustrated 73-page booklet tells the story of Jesus' private revelations to St. Faustina in the early 1930's and His desire to grant unimaginable graces to those souls who will have complete confidence in His goodness.

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I partnered with the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception to produce this story for their EWTN show, Living Divine Mercy available at: DivineMercyPlus.org

Specials thanks to the KCSJ Diocese who co-produced this short film.

Funding was provided by the Missouri State Council of the Knights of Columbus, R.I.B. fund for evangelization.

When I traveled deep into the heart of Michigan to film this story I was excited to what see these young were learning in the various trades of machining, wood work, plumbing, electrical and welding. What I was not expecting to find was the joy that was common among them. Although they all have come from very different backgrounds and have varying levels of skill, it was the brotherhood that united them the most. They love being around each other because the demands placed upon them daily by the Academy leadership drive them to go far deeper than just working with their hands in various disciplines. Instead, the bold expectations to rise early for community prayer, mass and Eucharistic adoration are the bedrock where all their natural desires to ‘wrench on engines’ begin to rev.

While filming I kept thinking to myself how practical it would be for all young men to at least complete the standard one year commitment the Academy asks of their students because, regardless if they went deeper into the trades or not, they would emerge with amazing life skills to benefit their family and friends. I partnered with the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception to produce this story for their EWTN show, Living Divine Mercy available at: DivineMercyPlus.org

In truth, most of our young men today feel very restless and disjointed by the disorder of the world. Here at the Harmel Academy, what I discovered is that the manual genius that initially drew most of these young men in is not what is making them come alive with joy and purpose. Instead, the trades and the holy rigor expected of them daily are simply beckoning them forward to assume the office they are called to as future priests and married men willing to live in virtue and sacrifice. The reality these men are engaging in together as brothers is a simple reminder that even with our hands we can and are called to adore God and assist in the transformation of the world through holiness.

For more information about the Harmel Academy please visit:

https://www.harmelacademy.org/

If you talk to any Catholic speaker most will agree that the number one question asked after a talk goes something this, “My son/daughter has left the faith. What should I do.” And most if not all eventually reply, “Pray for them.” While that is the narrow way forward it often doesn’t bring the level of reassurance a grieving and frightened parent is seeking at that moment. Most parents have already been praying and yet, they often see little or no progress at all. Sometimes their child’s condition can even seem to worsen.

But as Tim reminds us in this powerful testimony of desperation and hope, “Prayers work but they don’t always work in the way we want them to work.” This past year Tim finally agreed to record his story in a book and it was then that I sensed it was time to do a film. I partnered with the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception to produce this story for their EWTN show, Living Divine Mercy available at: DivineMercyPlus.org

The prayers and sufferings of parents especially when united to Christ’s cross are mighty before the throne of Almighty God. The power of adoring God in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, frequent trips to the Blessed Sacrament, the holy rosary, the Chaplet of Divine Mercy; these are powerful acts of faith and sacrifice that move heaven to act because God is being glorified. If we just do our part we will gain a confidence in God’s goodness knowing that He also is doing His.

Please visit Tim’s site to get his new book - ‘From the Crack House to God’s House: The Power of a Mother’s Prayer’

www.sciencetestsfaith.com/

Two years ago in Maryland I found out why and my heart was forever changed and moved.

Can you imagine growing up in a home where all of your family members can hear and talk except you? Now imagine going to mass with them but not being able to understand what is going on or if you happen upon a rare mass where someone is signing the mass they’re all the way in the corner far from what is taking place on the altar. How are you to follow along and pray holy mass? In reality, even your greatest efforts to engage with the liturgy are fits and stops because the person translating is missing most of the theology the priest is referencing as they’re not familiar with the faith or they’re having to figure out what words to use in real time because Father took no time before hand to share with the signer what he would be preaching on. As you look around for others like yourself you quickly you start to realize that you are only one of two or three in the church. Would you feel a part of the parish community? Would you want to return?

When I first met Fr. Depcik I was amazed at his presence and deep love for Our Lord. He truly loves being a priest to both hearing and deaf Catholics and yet, he carries a heavy cross in knowing that the vast majority of Catholics who are deaf simply stop going to Holy mass by the time they become young adults and never return. How would you bring them back? Where would you begin? How could one of just a handful of priests trained in ASL take on such a monumental task of satiating the great need of inviting back members of the catholic family who really have no fundamental understanding of what and Whom they are missing each Sunday?

“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” Matthew 28:19-20

As a church, we have received a specific request by Jesus Himself to baptize all souls and teach them everything He taught including the tradition handed down to us through the centuries, the deposit of faith. I partnered with the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception to produce this story for their EWTN show, Living Divine Mercy available at: DivineMercyPlus.org.

If you are weary, discontent or frustrated by the Church, experience in this heartwarming story a face of your Catholic faith you probably didn’t know existed. Father Depcik surely is a shepherd after the Lord’s Heart and although he daily faces insurmountable challenges he has discovered the transformative power of bearing his cross to follow the Lord.

I met Andrew back in 2012 but only recently at this amazing mile marker of the '“40’s” was I finally able to produce a film on him that reveals more of the complete picture and his truly remarkable journey.

He is without question one of the most gifted writers and speakers I have ever encountered. I recall one time being in attendance at a church, in which literally 35 minutes into his talk the building began to tremble as I looked around to see if anyone else was experiencing what I was. I believe they were.

I chose to premiere this story in the month of June - the month of humility - when the church turns Her focus and attention in a heightened way to the all-merciful Sacred Heart of Jesus. I love the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and it has become my favorite devotion in the church. I also admire St. John, who was blessed to lay his weary head on the chest of Our Savior and experience the beating of His Divine Heart which said, “There is more for you John, keep going, there’s more”.

The good news is that the same invitation to let go and fall into the Sacred Heart of Jesus which John encountered so long ago is truly made available to every soul on the planet in each Holy Mass and each moment we adore Him in His real and Merciful presence in the Holy Eucharist. Andrew’s testimony is a reminder that at the core of ‘the Good News’ we discover the Divine Mercy of Jesus Christ in all its intimacy. We only limit His action in our lives by our mistrust.

'What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the human heart conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him.’ 1 Corinthians 2:9

Perhaps we receive little because we expect little and we expect little because we ask for little. I partnered with the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception to produce this story for their EWTN show, Living Divine Mercy available at: DivineMercyPlus.org.

For all of our thoughts of desolation, doubt and fear Andrew’s witness is a stream of living water that can help carry us to the Merciful embrace of Jesus where, through His cross, He has already secured the unimaginable for us.

To learn more about Andrew’s work and Desert Streams Ministries please visit:

https://www.desertstream.org/

Although Susan-Jayne was eager to answer all my Ralph Lauren questions, it was her infectious laughter and joy that drew me into the heart of her work as a master craftsman. Beyond the world of named brands and the international success she had achieved, Susan-Jayne’s creative genius and skill could only be fully understood through her truest calling as a wife and mother. With such sobriety, simplicity and humility it’s no wonder her faith and work are thriving. I knew this was going to be an amazing story!

As two people deeply devoted to our artistic-based trades, I most especially enjoyed my time with Susan-Jayne in talking about marriage, parenting and faith. Her childlike disposition without question has allowed her to put her fears aside and remain open to God’s guidance. How infectious and so needed today! I partnered with the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception to produce this story for their EWTN show, Living Divine Mercy available at: DivineMercyPlus.org.

I’m so grateful to have been able to tell her story. Sacra Indumenta, this amazing company she’s now at the helm of, is truly a microcosm of her sincere and faith-filled heart as a wife, mother and servant of Our Blessed Lord. It’s said that beauty will save the world and with Susan-Jayne’s ‘sacred coverings’ I believe this to be true!

To learn more about Sacra Indumenta visit: https://www.sacraindumenta.com/

It is reported that the Fatima visionary, Sr. Lucia, went on record saying that the last attack by the devil would be against the family. Today, it’s hard today not take her comment at face value. The divorce rate has never been higher while more children are collapsing inwardly as the draw for some to question their God-given identity is trending upward as many more are giving into despair and the temptation to do even worse. In a time where we hear so much about hope there seems so little of it around us. But another reality, this side of the veil, is that Our Blessed Lord - the Divine Physician, never gives up on us and nor does His Mother.

From the foot of His cross to our crosses today, Her greatest desire still remains to guide all of Her children by the hand to Her Son along the narrow way. Mary knows the answer that can lift us from all that assails and ails us. And for the parents of St. Thomas More parish in Scranton, PA., She has become most fittingly known as, ‘Our Lady of Mercy.’

This was a story I was familiar with but only from afar. My dear friend, Jerry Bauman, a parishioner and parent of two young kiddos, was on the ground level of this most amazing transformation that began in very humble and simple ways; through the prayers of children. As he states so clearly, “This is the answer.”

I partnered with the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception to produce this story for their EWTN show, Living Divine Mercy available at: DivineMercyPlus.org. It is my joyful optimism, as is theirs, that every soul see what God has done and is still doing today in their little town and parish community as children, teens and families are coming alive through a chorus of adoration to the Good-God who will not rest until evil is put down and peace established for those who put their trust in Him.

What the families here are discovering through Mary is that TRUE HOPE has a Name, a Face, a Presence and He does not disappoint! For more information about the group Jerry and other parents have begun, please visit their site at:

https://www.childrenofourladyofmercy.org/

Although I wish I could have featured all of the woman living there I now realize as do they that their own stories are really not so much about them but rather, Him. As one resident puts it, “He gazes at us.” I partnered with the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception to produce this story for their EWTN show, Living Divine Mercy available at: DivineMercyPlus.org. In our modern day quest to simply be seen and known we often will try anything except the most obvious. I’m grateful this place exists because they are a beacon of light to remind us where Christ has specified He desires to encounter us.

Lisieux House

https://www.lisieuxhouseseattle.com/

I can still recall quite vividly the first time I came across the bright-eyed and joyful faces of Nate and Mari. I was not prepared after reading about their picture perfect courtship and engagement of the stunning events that followed just days after their holy wedding. Like many, I was quickly reduced to tears, so much so, that I remember calling my wife to tell her about this story. I just couldn’t get over what I took in and I needed to share the weightiness of it all. Looking back, I was only able to see tragedy and my heart was in sorrow for them.

Fast forward several months later, and you cannot imagine my dismay when I got the call about producing a film about them. My first thought was to pass on it as a litany of doubts flooded my mind.

“Were they really ready to tell their story?”

“How could they handle the rigor involved in making a film?”

“It hadn’t even been a year yet, so what happens if we begin but we have to stop, possibly indefinitely?”

My time with the Kuhlman’s, over multiple trips to film, is without question one of the great gifts I’ve experienced as a storyteller. I will forever cherish their hospitality, openness and trust. I partnered with the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception to produce this story for their EWTN show, Living Divine Mercy available at: DivineMercyPlus.org. I also want to give credit to David Barrett for allowing me access to his wonderful footage of their wedding. Courtesy of www.TheCatholicWeddingVideographer.com

Lastly, It’s a practice of mine to consecrate every film to Jesus’ Sacred Heart through Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart and I renew this daily with whatever stories I’m working on. I’ve come to realize that with Her everything is better. So, how fitting it was that our final scene of production would take place in a little garden dedicated to Our Lady of Fatima as we concluded at 3pm, the Divine Mercy Hour. Why is that important to this film? Today, (April 24, 2025) is Day Seven of the Novena to Jesus, The Divine Mercy as it reads: “Today, bring to me those souls who especially venerate and glorify My Mercy.” When I think of Nate and Mari, how they were seeking to live intentionally and to bring along so many with them to God, Our Lord’s Divine Mercy clearly comes to mind. I also believe their story and the work of Mercy through not just them but their family is far from over. As Nate’s mom, Heather, so beautifully shares with us, “God’s not done….there is more, so much more.”

And, yes, I did cry again as the Kuhlman’s and I parted ways after that last scene but this time, they were tears of joy because they helped me to see beyond the tragedy - the sorrow into the Merciful Goodness of God. He is not done with them nor is He with you and me. I pray that their story may offer you a boost of faith, a lift of hope as you trust like them that your Savior, Jesus, the Divine Mercy, is holding your life and those so dear to you securely in His hands.

Have you ever wondered if our prayers originate with us or if they might be inspired from heaven first? It’s a fascinating question I began to ponder shortly after meeting Lorie several years ago. As a busy woman organizing many important events in her home diocese, her faith and fervor for the Lord and His church was evident. In asking her about her journey to God I was amazed to learn the story she related that began with an ongoing question that came to her as a child. More amazing was how this question became a prayer that would guide her throughout her life.

“This journey was leading me in this one direction…”

Trusting in God’s goodness often involves facing realities that are beyond our ability to handle alone. As a business owner, I understand firsthand the temptation to feel isolated and alone in your challenges. But in documenting a glimpse of Lorie’s amazing journey, she challenged me on many levels by exposing the lie that we’re often tempted to believe; that God isn’t intimately aware of our circumstances and that although He can do all things, in our situation He probably won’t.”

The question that dominated her childhood would become a prayer that would guide her choices into adulthood. Lorie’s courage and fortitude to find the answer that burned on her heart left me asking…. “Do I really believe He is guiding me?”

I partnered with the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception to produce this story for their EWTN show, Living Divine Mercy also available at: DivineMercyPlus.org. In Matthew 4:19 we hear Jesus exhort us to, ‘Come, follow Me.” Perhaps after watching Lorie’s story you too, like me, will be filled with a renewed confidence to do just that. A special note of gratitude also to our daughter who graciously agreed to play the ‘younger Lorie’ in our film. Being her dad is one of the greatest joys of my life and I think she knocked it out of the park!

I remember being moments away from boarding a flight out east to journey to film Justin’s story but having an overwhelming sense that I should not board. Severe storms were ahead and I was convinced that we would not make it and we would have to divert to another city which would cause me to miss a crucial connection. The decision was heavy laden because this was the second time we had scheduled this trip. I recall seeing a priest about to enter the jet and thinking, “Is this a sign I should push through my thoughts and worry and just proceed forward in faith?” I hesitated as a cold and nervous sweat broke out. I had seconds to make my choice. I finally spoke out loud to myself, “I’m not going. That’s it. I can’t do it.” As I turned and walked away from the gate numerous voices began to assail me one after the other. “You’re a coward, you’re a loser, you don’t trust God and He even put a priest on the plane to help you, you’re really going to do this?….”

“I’m so happy with what I’ve found…it’s changed everything.”

Years ago, I began to realize in a very real but still mysterious way God often required that I suffer for certain films according to his own designs. And while I’m far from perfect in this area it is a reality that I have become more accustomed to and try to embrace. Without question, my daily holy hour and mass have helped me immensely to surrender and try to follow where He is leading.

The tremendous trial and setbacks I encountered at the start of this film and during editing were so worth it because what Justin has to say about suffering is seldom realized or spoken of today. He is one of the most amazing young men I’ve ever met and I would gladly go through it all again and more because of what I’ve learned.

And in case you’re curious… the flight never made it! It was diverted to another city. Had I taken it I would have blown the entire trip. My time with Justin is helping me to learn to distinguish where is my voice, God’s voice and the enemy’s voice. I partnered with the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception to produce this story for their EWTN show, Living Divine Mercy available at: DivineMercyPlus.org.

Like all these films, I’m especially grateful I got to meet Justin and document his amazing story. God truly wants the best for us no matter how suffering arrives at our doorstep. Justin helped me to realize that suffering is really not about suffering and that Our Lord is right there by our side.

Do you believe in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist?

Do you know that He wants to be adored, that He’s asking to be adored and that He promises the reassurance of eternal life with Him for those who do so?

He simply wants our presence and our love.

I’ve spent the last 5 years documenting this as a filmmaker and as a daily adorer now and I can tell you that few people today come to adore Him in his Real Presence.

It’s exponentially harder to get in to see the Pope, the president, a professional athlete or a celebrity but the King of the universe who created each one of us out of love for us individually let alone the universe is for the most part ignored and remains alone in his chapels and churches all over our country.

The two most important moments in the life of a Catholic are our next Eucharist and the moment when we breathe our last breath and go to our judgment to make an account for the life we have lived. Did you know that He alone wants to prepare us for these two moments so that we are ready, reassured and confident in His goodness for us personally and intimately?

This Divine doctor is fully aware of everything going on today in His world and He has intimate knowledge of your life and all those who are important to you. And even though it looks like evil is winning today in truth He is in control of everything especially your life and mine.

Before you move on to the next post or task would you consider making a visit to go see Him today?

Will you begin to let down, be still before Him and let Him care for you and all those entrusted to your care?

All you have to do is find one of the many adoration chapels in this city, adore and rest. It’s simple.

He will do the rest.

Hope is waiting and He will not disappoint.

While there is still time considering going because He is waiting for you.

You do not know Whom you’ve been missing.

It was only when I began to learn the backstory of her life, the formation she received in the home through the humble witness of her parents that I began to see that over two decades she was also offering an amazing sermon on mercy, especially to her other friends of hers in the pew who thought she was acting foolishly. But for Ginny, her choice to follow God no matter what means that “sometimes you have to take a leap of faith.” I partnered with the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception to produce this story for their EWTN show, Living Divine Mercy available at: DivineMercyPlus.org. Ginny’s witness challenged me on many levels but in the end her great love convinced me and won me over. How closely this experience resembled how Our Lord seeks to also work in our lives.

Mike Debus

https://www.michaeldebus.com/

Through it all she was steadfast in honoring her declaration to God as repeated the quiet mantra to herself that, “horses, dogs, I will give them up.” I partnered with the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception to produce this story for their EWTN show, Living Divine Mercy available at: DivineMercyPlus.org. God who is all faithful and Goodness itself, gives us talents and desires for reasons not to torment us but delight us. Sometimes however, as in the story of Mother Veronica, it can take a long time to discern where He is leading us. Personally, I really needed to encounter her story. Life can at times be an arduous and dark journey especially when you’re trying to remain faithful and pleasing to God. I’m so grateful to Mother and her inspiring witness because it’s a reminder that Our Lord never forgets our prayers or dismisses our desires, no matter how impossible they might seem. As He told St. Faustina, “I have the final say in all human affairs.” Here is a story of great triumph and hope featuring some of God’s most beautiful four-legged creatures.

Franciscan Congregation of Divine Mercy

https://www.fcofdivinemercy.org/