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Origin in the Diary
Jesus told Saint Faustina:
“I desire that the first Sunday after Easter be the Feast of Mercy.” (Diary §299)
The Diary directs that the Divine Mercy image be solemnly blessed and publicly venerated on that Sunday (§341). Priests are asked to proclaim God's great and unfathomable mercy, and the image is to be displayed where souls can approach it (§570).
When Is It Celebrated?
Divine Mercy Sunday is celebrated on the Second Sunday of Easter (the first Sunday after Easter). This day is also known as the Octave of Easter.
The Special Promise
“The soul that will go to Confession and receive Holy Communion shall obtain complete forgiveness of sins and punishment.” (Diary §699)
This promise includes sacramental Confession and reception of Holy Communion. It is a private-revelation promise recorded by Saint Faustina, to be understood within the context of the Church's ordinary teaching about the sacraments, repentance, and worthy reception.
Official Institution
On April 30, 2000, Saint John Paul II canonized Faustina Kowalska. During that celebration, he established the Second Sunday of Easter as Divine Mercy Sunday throughout the universal Church.