The Face of Mercy (2016) Timeline Explained – Every Event in Order

St. Faustina Receives the Message of Divine Mercy

The documentary traces the origins of the Divine Mercy devotion to St. Faustina, the Polish nun to whom Jesus delivered the message of Divine Mercy. Her revelations became the foundation of one of the most influential devotions in the modern Catholic Church. The film later uncovers the depth of the message she received.

When

Early 20th century

Where

Poland

Divine Mercy Shapes the Young Karol Wojtyła

The film highlights the influence Divine Mercy played in the life of the young Karol Wojtyła, the future Pope John Paul II. Growing up in Poland, he was formed by the message entrusted to St. Faustina. This early devotion would shape his entire life and papacy.

Where

Poland

God's Response to a Century of Horrors

The documentary argues that Divine Mercy is God's response to the horrors of the 20th Century. In an age marked by war and immense suffering, the message of mercy is presented as a gift of hope for humanity. This framing connects the devotion directly to the trials of the modern world.

When

20th Century

John Paul II Brings the Message to the World

As pope, Karol Wojtyła took the message that God gave to St. Faustina and brought it to the entire world. The film recounts how John Paul II became the great promoter of the Divine Mercy devotion. His efforts carried Faustina's message far beyond Poland to the universal Church.

Where

Vatican

The Encyclical Dives in Misericordia

George Weigel explains that John Paul II's devotion culminated years later in his second encyclical, entitled Dives in misericordia, or 'Rich in Mercy.' The document laid out a profound theology of God's mercy, rooted in Christ's revelation of the Father. It stands as a cornerstone of the pope's teaching on mercy.

When

1980

Where

Vatican

Pope Francis Declares an Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy

In 2015, Pope Francis declared an Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy for the universal Church. The special holy year was meant to be a time of grace, forgiveness, and renewed focus on God's mercy. This declaration provides the historical context in which the documentary was made.

When

2015

Where

Vatican

The Year of Mercy Begins

The 'year of mercy' officially began on December 8, 2015, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. The opening of the Jubilee launched a year dedicated entirely to Divine Mercy. The documentary draws deep connections between this year and the long history of the Divine Mercy message.

When

December 8, 2015

Where

Vatican

The Documentary Is Released

The documentary came out during the last month of the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy. Its release timing allowed viewers to reflect on the holy year as it drew to a close. The film weaves together the history of Divine Mercy and this year's Extraordinary Jubilee into a thoughtful, beautiful, and educational work.

When

Final month of the Jubilee

Pope Francis Opens the Film

Fittingly, it is Pope Francis who says the first lines on screen in the documentary. His opening words immediately establish the film's connection to the Jubilee Year of Mercy. This choice gives the project a personal stamp from the pope who called for the Jubilee.

'Mercy Is Love's Second Name'

During the opening montage, one of the first things said in the documentary is that 'mercy is love's second name.' The line is a paraphrased quote of John Paul II. It sets the reflective and educational tone that carries through the entire film.

Diverse Voices Share Their Perspectives

John Allen, a Vatican journalist, and Andrzej Duda, the President of Poland, tell of their perspectives on Divine Mercy. Their contributions add journalistic and political dimensions to the film's spiritual narrative. Both speak to the far-reaching impact of the message entrusted to St. Faustina.

Experts Uncover the Depth of the Message

Led by Scott Hahn, Cardinal Marc Ouellet, Fr. Michael Gaitley, Cardinal Seán O'Malley, and Fr. Seraphim Michalenko, the film uncovers the depth of the message St. Faustina received from Jesus. Each commentator unpacks a different dimension of the Divine Mercy devotion. Together they build a rich and layered exploration of the theme.

Weigel Summarizes the Heart of the Encyclical

Weigel articulates the message of John Paul II's Dives in Misericordia, saying, 'In Christ we meet the Merciful face of the Father and the Truth about our Humanity.' The statement captures the heart of the encyclical's teaching. It also serves as the central theological thesis of the film itself.

The Year of Mercy Concludes

The Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy came to an end on November 20, 2016. The close of the holy year marked the culmination of nearly twelve months dedicated to God's mercy. The documentary stands as a lasting reflection on the graces and message of that year.

When

November 20, 2016

Where

Vatican