The Sacred Heart of Jesus is a powerful symbol of Christ’s divine love for humanity. The First Friday devotion was requested by Jesus Himself in a series of visions to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, where He expressed His desire for devotion to His Sacred Heart in reparation for the ingratitude and indifference of mankind.
Promises
Jesus made 12 promises to those who honor His Sacred Heart, particularly by observing the First Friday devotion:
I will give them all the graces necessary in their state of life.
I will establish peace in their homes.
I will comfort them in all their afflictions.
I will be their secure refuge during life and, above all, in death.
I will bestow abundant blessings upon all their undertakings.
Sinners will find in My Heart the source and infinite ocean of mercy.
Lukewarm souls shall become fervent.
Fervent souls shall quickly mount to high perfection.
I will bless every place in which an image of My Heart is exposed and honored.
I will give to priests the gift of touching the most hardened hearts.
Those who shall promote this devotion shall have their names written in My Heart.
I promise you in the excessive mercy of My Heart that My all-powerful love will grant to all those who receive Holy Communion on the First Fridays in nine consecutive months the grace of final perseverance; they shall not die in My disgrace, nor without receiving their sacraments. My Divine Heart shall be their safe refuge in this last moment.
How to Live it Out
To live out the First Friday devotion, the faithful are called to:
Make a sacramental Confession.
Receive Holy Communion on the First Friday of each month with the intention of making reparations to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Additionally, it is recommended to spend time in Eucharistic Adoration and offer prayers for the intentions of the Sacred Heart.
The First Saturday devotion is dedicated to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. It is a means of making reparation for the offenses against her Immaculate Heart as requested by Our Lady of Fatima.
Promises
Our Lady promised that those who faithfully observe the Five First Saturdays devotion will receive the grace of final perseverance and the assistance needed at the hour of death.
How to Live it Out
To live out the First Saturday devotion, the faithful are called to:
Make a sacramental Confession.
Receive Holy Communion with the intention of making reparations to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
Pray the Rosary.
Spend 15 minutes meditating on one or more of the Rosary mysteries.
The First Wednesday devotion is dedicated to the Purest Heart of St. Joseph, the foster father of Jesus and protector of the Holy Family. This devotion seeks to honor St. Joseph’s role in the Holy Family and to seek his protection and intercession for our families.
Promises
St. Joseph is known for his powerful intercession and protection. Those who honor him on First Wednesdays are believed to receive special graces for their families and in their personal lives.
How to Live it Out
To live out the First Wednesday devotion, the faithful are called to:
Make a sacramental Confession.
Receive Holy Communion with the intention of seeking the intercession and protection of St. Joseph.
Reflect on the life and virtues of St. Joseph, particularly his obedience, humility, and care for the Holy Family.