On December 8, 2015, we entered into an Extraordinary Jubilee. The Holy Year of Mercy began on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception and will continue until Sunday, November 20 2016, the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe "and living face of the Father's mercy," as Pope Francis said.
Bishop Bambera offers suggestions for how we can participate in the Jubilee Year of Mercy:
Consider receiving the great blessing of the Lord’s forgiveness and acceptance that flows through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Reflect upon the simple yet life-giving corporal and spiritual works of mercy and enter more deeply into the heart of the Gospel message.
Above all, be attuned to the presence of Jesus as he comes to us through the welcoming embrace of faithful souls who are a part of the Church and – like you and me – seek to live their faith in Jesus.
The life and action of the Church, Pope Francis proclaimed, “is authentic and credible only when she becomes a convincing herald of mercy.”
Therefore, Bishop Bambera said, "May each of us who seek something more in our lives than this world can provide, come to experience that mercy as a blessing that, as our Holy Father tells us, ‘knows no bounds and extends to everyone without exception. No one is excluded from God’s mercy.'"
The diocesan website has more about the
Year of Mercy and local opportunities. The Vatican's
Jubilee of Mercy website has many interesting articles and photographs.