The Sacred Heart of Jesus

06-14-2026Pastor's CornerFr. Bob Deehan

The month of June is traditionally dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Last Thursday, June 11, the U.S. Bishops consecrated our country to Jesus' Sacred Heart. Timothy O’Malley, theology at the University of Notre Dame and associate director for research at its McGrath Institute for Church Life explains the consecration this way. “In the midst of a really perilous political situation operative right now, in the midst of war and violence and the terrors of AI, the Church thinks about existing in a particular country, existing in the United States. Her members now should really dedicate themselves anew to the merciful love of Christ.”

On this occasion, our Archbishop Richard Henning encourages the faithful of the Archdiocese to join the bishops in this consecration by placing an image of Jesus’ Sacred Heart in a place of honor in their homes, renewing their commitment to be faithful disciples, and by consecrating themselves to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.This can be done by using the resources found at bostoncatholic.org/the-sacred-heart-of-jesus. I invite you to pray the following prayer provided on the occasion of the U.S. Bishops’ Consecration of the United States of America 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.

God bless you!