U.S. bishops urge reflection as nation prepares for Sacred Heart consecration

The U.S. bishops are preparing to consecrate the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and are calling on the faithful to reflect on Christ’s love.

Ahead of the anticipated event, Catholics should “take a moment to reflect on the title ‘Sacred Heart of Jesus’” and what it “truly mean[s],” Archbishop Shelton Fabre of Louisville said in a video message.

“Love and forgiveness are freely given from Jesus’ Sacred Heart, encouraging us all to grow into the best disciples we can be across our country,” Fabre said.

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) released a link for the faithful to watch the consecration Mass online, which will take place June 11 in Orlando, Florida, during the bishops’ spring meeting.

The consecration coincides with America’s 250th anniversary following the bishops’ decision at their fall meeting to consecrate the U.S.

Prior to the consecration Mass and the act of consecration, the bishops will hear numerous reflections on the Sacred Heart from brother bishops.

The relics of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, the French sister who experienced visions of Jesus revealing his Sacred Heart, will also be present at the Mass.

As the bishops prepare for the event, Fabre prayed that “Jesus’ heart will continue to become the gentle and peaceful center of our lives, embracing our homes, parishes, neighborhoods, and nation, drawing each person into his comforting warmth — especially now when many of us are feeling tired, divided, or lonely.”

The “cherished image” of the Sacred Heart of Jesus “reflects Jesus’ humanity, love, and devotion to the Father,” he said.

“Even more importantly, it reminds us that when we pray, weʼre not just speaking into the air. Weʼre talking to someone whose heart burns with love for us,” he said.

“Every person, including Jesus, has a heart,” Fabre said. “Jesus’ heart shows us love most tenderly, warmly inviting us to experience it.”

“As our country is consecrated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, we are all entrusted to his grace. We are also reminded that Jesus is one of us. He has won the victory over sin and death, and he longs for us to come to him,” he said.

“Jesus Christ patiently offers us his Sacred Heart in the wounds and challenges of our marriages, families, and friendships amid financial worries or illness, and in our battles with addiction or loneliness,” he said.

“Jesus longs for the heartbeat of his love to resound in our world, in our country, and in our lives. Sacred Heart of Jesus, I trust in thee,” he said.