Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

St. Margaret Mary Alacoque (1647–1690) was a French Roman Catholic nun and mystic whose visions profoundly shaped modern Catholic devotion. Born in Burgundy, France, she faced a difficult childhood marked by poor health and family hardships. At age 24, she entered the Visitation Convent at Paray-le-Monial, seeking a life entirely dedicated to God.

Between 1673 and 1675, Margaret Mary experienced a series of powerful mystical revelations. In these visions, Jesus Christ appeared to her, revealing his Sacred Heart burning with love for humanity. He expressed deep sorrow over human indifference and instructed her to establish a feast day and practices of reparation, including the First Friday Communions.

Despite initial skepticism from her religious superior and community, she remained steadfast. With the support of her spiritual director, St. Claude de la Colombière, her revelations gained acceptance. Her life permanently anchored the Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus within the global Church.

The Sacred Heart of Jesus is waiting for each one of us to visit Him in a church or chapel.  What a beautiful gift we have to visit Our Lord and Savior and benefit sitting in His True Presence.