CRACOW LAGIEWNIKI
– The Sanctuary of Divine Mercy is the world centre of this cult instituted by Pope John Paul II in 2002. Through its shape and symbolism the monumental construction refers to a ship sailing on rough waters of the modern world. There are two levels in this massive church. The upper one has a surface of 2 000 square meters and may seat a congregation of 2 500 people, while the lower one is a house to chapels in which foreign pilgrims may attend masses celebrated in their native languages. The image of Merciful Jesus can be found at the central altar of the basilica. This portrait of Jesus was given by Christ through Sister Faustina Kowalska, today considered saint, canonised in 2002 by the Pope John Paul II. St. Faustina spent the last two years of her life in the monastery in Łagiewniki. Her relics were placed in the church of St. Joseph among other monastery buildings in the vicinity of the basilica. The convent of Sisters of the Holy Mother of Mercy was founded by Prince Aleksander Lubomirski in 1889. Up to this day, following the tradition and their vocation, the sisters have been engaged in care and education activities. They run an educational centre for girls, 3 secondary schools and a boarding school. Łagiewniki is one of the most important Polish sanctuaries, visited by plenty of pilgrims who come to see Merciful Jesus and derive inspiration from His message: “Do not be afraid, for I am always with you”.
