True Community and the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Today begins the month-long dedication to the Sacred Heart of Jesus!

As much as we talk about building community, one thing is certain:

Our Lord’s Heart is the life force of every true and authentic community. 

It is His love and mercy that draws us to Him and others. It is His love that shows us who we truly are. It is his love that sets us free. 

As St. Paul states in Colossians, “But above all these things have charity, which is the bond of perfection.” 

In a culture where this month is ironically centered on "pride", the worst of all the vices —let us as true followers of Christ seek to be the "bond of charity" in a world in such need of Our Lord's Heart.

With this in mind, here are four ways to honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus in your community: 

#1: Pray the Litany to the Sacred Heart of Jesus together

The Litany of the Sacred Heart of Jesus was approved for the whole Church in 1891, which is evidently biblical in character and to which many indulgences have been attached.

Litany of the Sacred Heart of Jesus here.

#2: Make a consecration to the Sacred Heart

Similar to a Marian consecration, you can make a consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. About the act of consecration, Pope Pius XI said, "undoubtedly the principal devotional practice used in relation to the Sacred Heart".

Act of Consecration to the Sacred Heart here.

#3: Make acts of reparation to the Sacred Heart

The act of reparation is a prayer, mindful of the infinite goodness of Christ, imploring mercy for the offenses committed in so many ways against Our Lord’s Sacred Heart. 

Act of Reparation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus here.

#4: Practice the First Fridays Devotion

The pious practice of the first Fridays of the month which derives from the "great promises" made by Jesus to St. Margaret Mary. 

Details on how to observe the First Friday Devotion are here.

In Closing

Called exists to help you build local groups that transform local communities that convert entire societies. 

This is only possible through Our Lord Jesus Christ and His Most Sacred Heart. His grace alone can transform us into His living image. We hope you will join us this month as we honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

We will pray for you and your communities during this month of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.