For thousands of years, the human heart has represented love. In the Old Testament, there are numerous references to the “heart” of God, who loves his people, Israel.
In the New Covenant, the love of Jesus Christ is shown in his heart, which was pierced by the lance after his death upon the Cross. In the 1600s, Our Lord Jesus appeared to St. Margaret Mary, a French nun, and revealed to her the love of his heart for sinners. Since that time, devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus has been a mainstay of Catholic devotion (in the Latin Church).
During this year 2026, in which our nation celebrates its 250th birthday, the Bishops of the United States will be consecrating our nation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This will take place on Friday, June 12th, the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart. This is a great day for the Church in America, and for the United States of America! It is a reminder that we were, indeed, founded as “one nation under God,” and that freedom can only survive if we are a “moral and religious people” (President John Adams).
Here is the prayer for consecration of the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus:
O Most Sacred Heart of Jesus:
You know the longings of our hearts, and you desire that we enjoy friendship with you.
From your pierced side, you have poured out the wellspring of life, for which we thirst.
Your heart burns with a love for all people to return to a right relationship with you.
We celebrate the abundant gifts you have given this nation, founded on the self-evident truths that our Creator has endowed all people with the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
We make reparation for the offenses against you and against human dignity that have taken place in this nation.
May our hearts be united to yours, so that our families and communities enjoy peace and happiness; may broken relationships be reconciled, injustices repaired, and the wounds of our land be healed.
May your holy Catholic Church serve as a sign, pointing all people to your infinite love.
O Desire of Nations and Center of History, we ask you to bless these United States of America.
Who live and reign with God the Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us!
Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us!
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