Sacred Heart of Jesus Statue
By Robyn Bruggeman
June is traditionally dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, a devotion that draws us into the mystery of Christ’s boundless love for humanity—his heart pierced for our salvation and ever burning with love and mercy.
Rooted in the revelations to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque in the 17th century, the Sacred Heart symbolizes both the human and divine love of Christ, inviting us to trust in his compassion and to make reparation for sin. As Catholics, we can live this devotion in simple and reverent ways: by attending Mass (especially on the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus), spending time in eucharistic adoration, displaying an image of the Sacred Heart in our homes, and practicing acts of charity and forgiveness that reflect Christ’s love. Small daily offerings, such as a morning prayer or intentional acts of kindness, become meaningful ways to unite our hearts more closely with his.
Doing a home enthronement to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a special way to dedicate yourself, your family and your home to his most Sacred Heart. (The Knights of Columbus website has my favorite resources for this. Visit www.kofc.org and search “Sacred Heart.”)
June 7 – Corpus Christi: The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ
What we celebrate
This solemnity celebrates the Real Presence of Jesus Christ—Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity—in the Eucharist. It is a public proclamation of our belief that the Eucharist is not symbolic but truly Christ himself. Rooted in the Church’s deep eucharistic theology and devotion, it calls us to adore Christ, present in the Blessed Sacrament.
How to live it LITurgically
Read John 6 (The Bread of Life Discourse).
Offer a prayer of thanksgiving after Mass.
Practice reverence and intention when receiving Jesus in the Eucharist.
Attend eucharistic adoration or a Corpus Christi procession.
Make the Sign of the Cross when passing by a Catholic Church as a reminder that Christ is truly present in the tabernacle.
June 12 – Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus
What we celebrate
This feast honors the Sacred Heart of Jesus as the symbol of his infinite love and mercy for humanity. Flowing from his Passion, his heart remains open to all, inviting us into deeper trust and reparation for sin. The devotion was especially spread through St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, emphasizing Christ’s personal love for each soul. Jesus’ heart, pierced for our sins, invites us to love as he loves.
How to live it LITurgically
Place an image of the Sacred Heart in your home.
Attend Mass.
Pray an Act of Consecration as a family.
Consecrate your home and family to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. One of my favorite places for resources: www.kofc.org.
Practice acts of mercy, forgiveness and kindness.
Enjoy a nice juicy steak! (You can have meat on this feast day).
June 13 – Immaculate Heart of Mary
What we celebrate
Celebrated the day after the Sacred Heart, this feast honors the pure and sinless heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary, perfectly united to her Son. Her Immaculate Heart reflects total love, humility and obedience to God. She always leads us straight to her Son.
How to live it LITurgically
Pray the Rosary together.
Attend Mass.
Place flowers near a Marian image or statue.
Practice quiet obedience and Mary-like trust in daily tasks.
Consider doing a Marian consecration.
June 24 – Nativity of St. John the Baptist
What we celebrate
This feast celebrates the birth of John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ, who prepared the way for the Lord. His life points entirely to Jesus: “He must increase, I must decrease.” This day reminds us of our own call to humility and mission. Celebrate “Summer Christmas”! This feast day is exactly six months to the Nativity of Our Lord. Read Luke 1:36 to see the cool liturgical connection!
How to live it LITurgically
Do some fun outdoor activities (St. John the Baptist was a wilderness guy).
Go camping.
Make and eat grasshopper pie.
Reflect on the passage “He must increase, I must decrease.” (Jn 3:30)
What can you do to help prepare the way for the Lord?
June 29 – Sts. Peter and Paul
What we celebrate
This solemnity honors St. Peter and St. Paul, pillars of the early Church. Peter represents unity and authority, while Paul embodies missionary zeal. Together, they reflect the fullness of the Church’s apostolic mission.
How to live it LITurgically
Read from the Acts of the Apostles.
Pray for the pope and the Church.
Share your faith through acts of charity and truth.
Encourage one another in living the Gospel.
Family Prayer for June
“Lord Jesus, as we celebrate these holy feast days, draw our hearts closer to yours. Help our family to live with faith, hope and charity in our daily lives. May we grow in love for the Eucharist, devotion to your Sacred Heart, and trust in the example of your saints. Amen.”
Tune into the Living LIT podcast for more inspiration and encouragement in bringing the Catholic faith alive in your domestic church—the little church you call home. Available where you tune into podcasts and at LivingLIT.org.
