To mark the 100th anniversary of Helena Kowalska’s entrance into the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy, the year 2025 has been designated as the Year of Saint Sister Faustina. As part of these celebrations, events will take place within the Congregation, culminating in a gathering of sisters from convents in Poland and abroad on August 1 in Warsaw—the location where, 100 years earlier, Helena Kowalska, the Apostle of Divine Mercy, crossed the threshold of religious life. This meeting will conclude with a night vigil, featuring prayers of adoration and thanksgiving for her gift and spiritual legacy for the Congregation and the Church. The vigil will be held at the Sanctuary of Saint Sister Faustina, the former chapel of the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy, where she prayed during her time in the convent on Żytnia Street.
On this occasion, an extensive biography of the Apostle of Divine Mercy, titled “Enraptured by Mercy”, written by Sister M. Elżbieta Siepak ISMM, will be published. This work is based exclusively on source materials, both published (Diary, Letters of Saint Sister Faustina, Memories of Saint Sister Faustina) and unpublished archival records, as well as documents from the beatification process. The biographical and spiritual legacy album edition will include previously unpublished information and photographs. Comprehensive footnotes (over 650) will provide deeper insights into the context of her life within her family, during her years of service to wealthier families, and in the convents of the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy. The publication will also feature indices of individuals and places, ensuring easy access to sought-after information, along with a bibliography of key references.
On Saturday, August 30, 2025, a major youth gathering will take place in Łagiewniki, focusing on the theme of discernment. The event is especially aimed at young people aged 18–35 who face significant life decisions. The program will include communal prayer, conferences, and a concert, all designed to inspire young people to make courageous and sound life choices aligned with God’s will, following the example set by Helena Kowalska 100 years ago when she pursued her vocation despite many challenges.
From October 3–5, 2025, the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy in Kraków-Łagiewniki will host an International Conference exploring new and pioneering themes in the writings of Saint Sister Faustina and her influence on the life of the Church in Poland and worldwide. Scholars and devotees of the Apostle of Divine Mercy from Poland and various countries will participate in this event.
