A Heart That Still Calls: Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, June 27, 2025
A Heart That Still Calls
The Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is celebrated every year on the Friday following the octave of Corpus Christi, eight days after that feast, which always lands on a Sunday. While it may seem like just another date on the liturgical calendar, this particular feast holds a profound invitation: to draw nearer to the heart of Christ, who loves us without limit.
A Timeless Devotion
Throughout the centuries, saints and spiritual leaders have introduced many ways to deepen our relationship with Jesus. One practice that has stood the test of time is the Consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Today, individuals and families across the world continue this tradition, dedicating their hearts and homes to Christ. Often, a blessed image of the Sacred Heart is placed in a central spot in the home as a reminder of this commitment and a focus for prayer.
Interested in consecrating your home?
Click here to request your free Sacred Heart Home Enthronement Kit.
The Devotion Began with a Divine Request
Devotion to the Sacred Heart is not simply a pious tradition... it began with a personal request from Jesus Himself. Between 1673 and 1675, in the quiet town of Paray-le-Monial, France, a nun named Sister Margaret Mary Alacoque received a series of extraordinary visions. Jesus revealed His Sacred Heart to her as a symbol of His love for humanity, wounded by indifference and sin. From these revelations came specific practices for honoring His Heart:
- Holy Hour of prayer on Thursdays, in remembrance of His agony in the Garden of Gethsemane
- Reception of the Eucharist on the First Friday of each month
- A Feast of the Sacred Heart, following the Feast of Corpus Christi
In 1856, Pope Pius IX extended this feast to the entire Latin-rite Church, solidifying the devotion’s place in the liturgical life of Catholics around the world.
The 12 Promises of the Sacred Heart
During these visions, Jesus also gave 12 promises to those who would practice this devotion faithfully. These include graces for families, strength in trials, and peace of soul. Thanks to Father Claude La Colombière, Sister Margaret Mary’s confessor and later a canonized saint, these promises were shared with the wider world and continue to inspire the faithful.
Want to explore the 12 promises in more detail?
Click here to read the full explanation of each one.
A Personal Story of Transformation
Before my conversion to Catholicism, I believed my success was the result of my own hard work and cleverness. I took pride in my achievements and gave little thought to the idea that God might be guiding anything. But then came a moment I couldn't explain away... a message I believe came directly from the Blessed Mother. That encounter opened my eyes to how self-focused I had become. It was sobering. And it led me to ask some serious questions about who I was and who I was becoming. Letting go of my old life—my friends, my identity in competitive sailboat racing, my worldview—was painful. But as I moved forward in faith, Jesus surrounded me with new relationships that helped me grow, encouraged my conversion, and offered peace I hadn’t known before.
Tuning In to the Holy Spirit
People sometimes ask what sparked my transformation. The answer is simple, though not always easy: I began to listen. The Holy Spirit had been speaking for years—I just hadn’t been listening on the right frequency. Spiritual growth starts with humility. It requires quieting the noise, examining your heart honestly, and becoming open to change. That’s where God meets us—with His healing and direction. One of the most humbling parts of this journey was recognizing how long my wife had been inviting me to grow in faith. She saw my potential long before I did. Her patient encouragement—especially toward regular Mass attendance—planted the seeds that would later take root. And wouldn’t you know it? The message from Our Lady came after I had begun helping the Men of the Sacred Hearts consecrate homes and families to Jesus. God has a way of affirming when we’re finally on the right path.
Christ’s Heart Is Still Beating for You
The Sacred Heart of Jesus is not just a religious symbol. It is a living sign of His love for you—personal, present, and powerful. If you're seeking peace, clarity, or purpose, consider opening your heart to Him. This devotion isn’t about perfection; it’s about letting Jesus draw you into His heart, just as you are. He’s already waiting. All He needs is your “yes.”
Want to take the next step?
Click here to get your Sacred Heart Enthronement Kit and begin the journey.
-David Tay
