2.1 Jesus, I trust in You.

I lost my dad. He was a kind, humble and sweet man. He was my life mentor and my role model. He lived his life loving God. Jesus promised that if the Divine Mercy chaplet is prayed in our hour of death, that person will not perish. 

In the Fall of 2021, we were told that my dad was palliative. Over the course of the next few months, as soon as I would walk in his house each day, he would signal to start the Divine Mercy Chaplet through an app installed on his phone. He couldn’t speak without effort, but his nod to me was enough to know he wanted to pray. We continued to pray the chaplet even more fervently throughout the last few months of his life. Although my dad could not verbally participate near the end, I prayed it out loud with him during his last day and his last hour. I believe he died a happy death and in a state of grace. He trusted in God’s mercy. God permitted him to suffer a little the last while, but not without the graces he needed. Dad knew that his sufferings could be united to Jesus’ cross and be offered as a sacrifice for others.

The message of Divine Mercy has brought comfort and solace to countless individuals throughout history. In a world that can often be dark and unforgiving, the message is a beacon of light and hope. It reminds us that no matter how lost we may feel, we are never truly alone, and that there is always a path back to God's love and mercy.

Jesus, I trust in You. I trust that You were waiting for my dad with our Blessed Mother Mary upon his death. My dad loved You and the Blessed Virgin Mary. My dad trusted in You, and according to Your promise, I know my dad is with You participating in the heavenly banquet.

Joe Ruscio is the founder of Divine Mercy Missions. He has been an active member of his Catholic community, volunteered with soup kitchens and fundraising events, as well as served on numerous boards and committees throughout the years including School Board Trustee with the Huron Superior Catholic School Board and Treasurer of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Services of Ontario. Joe was awarded the 2014 Chamber of Commerce Paul Dalseg Award.