An Apostle of Divine Mercy is a layperson or consecrated individual who chooses to make Divine Mercy the path of their holiness and service in the Church. Captivated by God’s infinite mercy, they dedicate themselves to growing in this devotion to serve their communities, parishes, dioceses, and the wider world more effectively. 

Formation is both spiritual and practical, rooted in the devotion itself, with a strong emphasis on prayer and the works of mercy, especially spreading God’s boundless love. Being an Apostle means making a personal commitment to Jesus, the Merciful One, to live this spirituality fully and proclaim His message to the world. 

This vocation stems from a profound charism: living the worship of Divine Mercy as a way of life and apostolate within the Church. Saint Faustina’s Spiritual Diary contains prophetic passages (Diary 1154–1160) describing how this spirituality would be embraced, highlighting the need to prepare the world for the Lord’s coming and to bear witness to trust in God’s mercy. 

The word Apostle comes from Greek, meaning “one who is sent” or “messenger.” Divine points to God, and Mercy, from Latin misericordia, breaks down as Miseris (the miserable), Cor (heart, love), Dare (to give). An Apostle of Divine Mercy is therefore one who carries the heart of God’s love to those in misery, bringing hope to a suffering world. 

Jesus promises that those who spread His message will receive His mercy at the hour of death, not judgment. All Catholics are called to participate in extending the Kingdom of Christ, for the glory of God the Father and to direct the world to Him.