Episode 1917: Sacred Heart of Jesus Novena

This Novena to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is part of the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a prominent and widely practiced aspect of Catholic spirituality. It centers on the love and mercy of Jesus Christ as symbolized by his heart, which is often depicted as crowned with thorns, pierced, and surrounded by flames.

The origins of the devotion can be traced back to medieval times, but it gained significant momentum in the 17th century through the visions of Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque, a French nun. Between 1673 and 1675, Margaret Mary reported having visions of Jesus, during which he revealed his Sacred Heart and communicated messages emphasizing his love for humanity and his desire for devotion to his Sacred Heart.

One of the key messages conveyed in these apparitions was Jesus' desire for reparation for the sins and ingratitude of mankind. He asked for acts of reparation, including frequent reception of the Eucharist, observance of Holy Hours of adoration, and the establishment of a feast day in honor of his Sacred Heart. He also requested the practice of the First Fridays devotion, where individuals would receive Holy Communion on the first Friday of each month for nine consecutive months in reparation for sins.

Following Saint Margaret Mary's death in 1690, devotion to the Sacred Heart continued to spread, aided by various religious orders and individuals who promoted it. In 1765, Pope Clement XIII officially approved the devotion to the Sacred Heart.

The devotion reached new heights in the 19th and 20th centuries, with the establishment of the Feast of the Sacred Heart in the liturgical calendar by Pope Pius IX in 1856. In 1899, Pope Leo XIII consecrated the entire world to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Later, in 1956, Pope Pius XII extended the feast of the Sacred Heart to the universal Church.

Throughout its history, the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus has inspired countless believers to deepen their relationship with Christ, emphasizing his love, compassion, and mercy. Many Catholic communities, religious orders, and individuals continue to honor and practice this devotion through prayers, devotions, and acts of reparation, seeking to respond to Christ's call to love him and others more fully. Today, the Sacred Heart devotion remains a significant aspect of Catholic spirituality, providing solace and inspiration to believers worldwide.