Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque, Virgin
Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque, Virgin: Optional Memorial on October 16
Honoring the Sacred Heart
On October 16, the Church honors Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque, a French Visitation nun who, in the late 17th century, received visions of Jesus revealing His Sacred Heart as a symbol of His profound love for humanity. These revelations led to the establishment of the First Fridays Devotion and the Feast of the Sacred Heart, practices that continue to inspire Catholics worldwide.
For families, this day serves as an opportunity to reflect on the depth of Christ's love and to cultivate a spirit of compassion and unity within the home. Embracing the devotion to the Sacred Heart can strengthen familial bonds and deepen one's relationship with Jesus.
The Life of Saint Margaret Mary
Born in 1647 in Burgundy, France, Margaret Mary Alacoque entered the Order of the Visitation in 1671. Between 1673 and 1675, she experienced a series of visions in which Jesus revealed His Sacred Heart, instructing her to promote this devotion and establish a feast in its honor. Despite initial skepticism, her persistence led to the widespread acceptance of the Sacred Heart devotion.
Margaret Mary passed away on October 17, 1690. She was beatified in 1864 and canonized in 1920. Her feast day is observed on October 16, the day before her death, to honor her life and contributions to the Church.
My Divine Heart is so inflamed with love for mankind... that it can no longer contain within itself the flames of its burning charity and must spread them abroad by your means.
— Jesus to Saint Margaret Mary AlacoqueBehold the wound in my side, wherein you are to make your abode now and forever.
John 19:34Symbols & iconography
- Sacred HeartA heart crowned with thorns, pierced by a sword, and aflame, symbolizing Jesus' love and sacrifice.
- FlameRepresents the burning love of Jesus for humanity.
- Crown of ThornsSymbolizes the suffering and sacrifice of Christ.
Customs & traditions
First Fridays Devotion
Attend Mass and receive Communion on the first Friday of each month to honor the Sacred Heart.
Holy Hour
Spend an hour in Eucharistic adoration on Thursday evenings, reflecting on Jesus' Agony in the Garden.
Feast of the Sacred Heart
Celebrate the Feast of the Sacred Heart, established by Saint Margaret Mary, on the Friday after the octave of Corpus Christi.
About this date
The feast day is observed on October 16, the day before Saint Margaret Mary's death, to honor her life and contributions to the Church.
Frequently asked
Why is Saint Margaret Mary's feast day on October 16?
Her feast day is observed on October 16, the day before her death, to honor her life and contributions to the Church.
What is the significance of the Sacred Heart devotion?
The Sacred Heart devotion emphasizes Jesus' profound love and sacrifice for humanity, encouraging believers to respond with love and compassion.
How can families practice the First Fridays Devotion?
Families can practice by attending Mass and receiving Communion together on the first Friday of each month, fostering unity and devotion.
Pray it as a household
Bring the feast into your family’s day
Solua walks your family through the day’s prayer together — a few unhurried minutes, shaped by the season.
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