Divine Mercy Sunday in Vilnius draws thousands of pilgrims from around the world

Thousands of pilgrims from across the globe gathered in Vilnius on Sunday for Divine Mercy Sunday, the culmination of a weeklong celebration tied to Easter, Lithuanian National Radio and Television (LRT) reports.

Over 20,000 worshippers attended the festivities in person, with many more following live broadcasts online. The events included a Light Way procession on Saturday evening, where more than 4,000 participants carrying candles walked from the Gate of Dawn to the Divine Mercy Sanctuary.

The Divine Mercy Sanctuary in Vilnius, home to the original painting of Merciful Jesus based on the visions of St. Faustina, has become a focal point for the observance. Archbishop Gintaras Grušas of Vilnius emphasized the significance of the day, originally known as Low Sunday but renamed following St. Faustina’s revelations.

“Divine Mercy Sunday was proclaimed to the world by St. John Paul II, but this message originated in Vilnius,” Grušas said. “It is important for us because it spread from here to the entire world.”

Pilgrims from Argentina, the United States, Switzerland, Italy, South Korea, Spain, and Mexico were among the attendees. Masses were held daily in multiple languages throughout the week.

Margarita, a pilgrim from Mexico, expressed her joy at being in Vilnius for the occasion. “I am very happy to be here today in this beautiful place where divine mercy, beauty, and a special spirit converge,” she said.

Actor Rimas Šapauskas reflected on the broader meaning of the event. “Jesus spoke to Sister Faustina about mercy in a broad sense, asking for mercy not only for each person but for the whole world,” he said. “Given what is happening in the world today, we all see the news and the unrest around us. Divine mercy is the message we should all turn to.”

The 6th World Apostolic Congress of Mercy will take place in Vilnius from June 7–12, continuing the tradition of gathering believers every three years in a different country.