Dives in Misericordia

On the Mercy of God

St. John Paul II1980-11-30Current

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Overview

Meditates on divine mercy revealed in Christ, the parable of the prodigal son, the Cross, and the Church’s mission.

Why This Document Matters

It supplies a theological foundation for mercy that does not oppose justice but restores the human person.

Historical Context

Issued by St. John Paul II in 1980, this papal encyclical addresses the pastoral, doctrinal, or governing needs of its period while remaining part of the Church's continuing documentary tradition.

Authority and Status

Genre: Papal Encyclical
Authority class: Papal encyclical
Juridical force: Doctrinal and pastoral
Current status: Current
Promulgated: 1980-11-30

Authoritative papal teaching; the weight of individual statements depends on their wording, subject, continuity, and intent.

Key Points

ChristologySpirituality & PrayerMoral Theology

Major Themes

ChristologySpirituality & PrayerMoral Theology

Related CatholicG33k Resources

Official Text

Dives in Misericordia

The official document text is hosted by the Holy See. CatholicG33k provides contextual and educational material but does not reproduce the complete Vatican text here.

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