‘Understanding Divine Mercy’ tour hits Hobart

By Josh Low

More than 130 people from around Tasmania gathered on the Feast of the Visitation to listen to Provincial Superior of the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate conception, Fr Chris Alar MIC.

Hailing from the United States, Fr Chris recently travelled across Australia on his ‘Understanding Divine Mercy’ tour and spoke at St Mary’s Cathedral on Wednesday 31 May.

The event also coincided with Fr Chris’ ninth anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood.

His talk focused on Mary’s role as God’s gift of mercy as he referenced Scripture, messages from Marian apparitions across the world, quotes from saints and touched on the Marian dogmas proclaimed in the Early Church.

Fr Chris explained how Mary as the “New Eve” and “New Ark of the Covenant” leads the faithful to Christ.

“Don’t reject this gift that Jesus gives you. He gave her to you from the cross.

“You don’t want to miss it, you don’t want to give it up, you don’t want to reject it,” he said.

“This gift will help to lead you to Jesus.”

West Tamar parishioner Gabriel Mclachlan was one of many from around Tasmania who travelled long distances to hear Fr Chris speak.

“I thought Fr Chris’ talk was very engaging. He clearly explained the Catholic Church’s dogmatic teaching about Mary, founding our beliefs in scripture and defending them against common refutations,” he said.

“One point that resonated with me was his argument for why the devil is more scared of Mary than he is of God, a seemingly contentious argument.

“Fr Chris explained how the devil’s pride would make him more scared to be defeated by a virgin girl than by the Creator of the universe.

“This is only one among many things that I learnt from Fr Chris’ talk [and] it was a privilege to be able to attend and listen in.”

Following the talk Fr Chris signed copies of his book Understanding Divine Mercy. He was also presented with a cake to celebrate his ninth anniversary of ordination.