Sacred Heart Meaning/History
Devotion to the Sacred Heart of our Lord has been recognized as early as the eleventh and twelfth centuries (St. Gertrude and St. Bonaventure write about it). Of course, it most certainly existed prior to this time, but in what forms and how widespread is not known, although there has been special reverence for the wound in Christ's side that dates back to the time of Sts. Paul & John.
What really triggered the widespread devotion were apparitions of Jesus to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque towards the end of the seventeenth century. She was a Visitandine nun. On several occasions, Christ told her He had chosen her for His work — that is, to disclose all the wonders of His love (through devotion to His Sacred Heart). St. Margaret also revealed 12 promises Christ made to her for those who practiced a true devotion to His Sacred Heart.
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