At their Plenary Assembly in November of last year, the U.S. Bishops announced plans to consecrate the nation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The consecration will take place on June 11, 2026, as part of the celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The origins of the devotion to the Sacred Heart date back to 1673, when Christ appeared to Sister Margaret Mary Alacoque in France for the first time. On June 16, 1675, Christ told Sister Margaret to commemorate a feast in honor of his Sacred Heart. Today the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus on the Friday after the second Sunday after Pentecost.
In his encyclical Dilexit Nos, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of recalling Jesus’ suffering and loving heart and its relationship to the pain of others. He said, “In contemplating the pierced heart of the Lord, who ‘took our infirmities and bore our diseases,’ we too are inspired to be more attentive to the sufferings and needs of others and confirmed in our efforts to share in his work of liberation as instruments for the spread of his love. As we meditate on Christ’s self-offering for the sake of all, we are naturally led to ask why we too should not be ready to give our lives for others.” (Dilexit nos, 171)
In preparation for the consecration of the United States to the Sacred Heart, the bishops invite the faithful to participate in a novena to the Sacred Heart. The novena starts on June 3 and draws its daily devotions from the Litany of the Sacred Heart.
The prayers for the novena can be found here: English, Español
On the Occasion of the U.S. Bishops Consecrating 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.
Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us!
Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us!
