St. Margaret Mary Alacoque

St. Margaret Mary Alacoque was a 17th century mystic. She was a Visitation nun. When she started having visions of Jesus, members of her order and theologians did not believe her. Eventually her visions were accepted.

In her visions, Jesus told her about his Sacred Heart and his love for all people. He promised graces to those who showed devotion to his Sacred Heart by receiving communion on nine consecutive First Fridays.

Patron Saint of …

St. Margaret Mary Alacoque is the patron saint of those suffering with polio, those who have lost their parents, and all who are devoted to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Daily Mass Readings for the Optional Memorial of Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque, Virgin

In addition to the suggested readings below, the readings may also be taken from the weekday readings, the Common of Virgins, or the Common of Holy Men and Women.

• First Reading – Ephesians 3:14-19: “Know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.”
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.”
• Gospel – Matthew 11:25-30: “I give praise to you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to little ones.”

He only asks of you abandonment and perfect submission. Nothing displeases Him so much as your uneasiness and despondency. What do you fear? Is He not powerful enough to support you? Why, then, are you so reserved with Him? Let Him act!

St. Margaret Mary Alacoque

First Friday Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

This devotion was promoted by St. Margaret Mary Alacoque and is practiced by receiving communion on nine consecutive first Fridays.

Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

This solemnity is celebrated 19 days after Pentecost. So it always falls on a Friday, although not necessarily a first Friday. It celebrates Our Lords tremendous love for us.

The Sacred Heart of Jesus – A Reign of Love

This article by Sr. Theresa Marie Nguyen, O.P. explains that devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus ties in with religious freedom. We must love with our whole selves.