Unveiling the Unique Devotion: Why the Sacred Heart Association Stands Apart
– By Ruben Mario Brodrick
Benin City, Nigeria
Among the many esteemed lay apostolate groups within the Catholic Church, the Association of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary has been singled out as exceptionally special.
This high commendation comes from Very Rev. Fr. James Ogbeiwe, Administrator of Holy Cross Cathedral in Benin City, who recently made a passionate appeal for new members during an Archdiocesan Sacred Heart feast day celebration, coinciding with the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul.
Fr. Ogbeiwe elaborated on what distinguishes this ancient society, explaining that while groups like the Legion of Mary and Infant Jesus associations are vital, the Sacred Heart Association holds a unique position. “The Association is special because it is the only society that the Church celebrates their feast as a Solemnity,” he emphasized, highlighting that no other lay society receives this liturgical honor.
He further detailed the significance of a Solemnity, noting, “during the celebration, we take three readings [in the Liturgy of the Word], the Nicene Creed is recited, as well as the Prayer of the Faithful… you can imagine!” This elevates the Sacred Heart feast above other commemorations, underscoring its profound theological importance.
A Deeper Dive into Sacred Heart Devotion:
Beyond its liturgical recognition, the Sacred Heart Association possesses several distinctive practices:
Home Altars and Priestly Visits: Fr. Ogbeiwe revealed that the Sacred Heart Society is the only lay group in the Church obliged to create an altar in their homes.
Moreover, it’s unique in that a priest is specifically requested to visit members’ homes for enthronement, undertaking the journey “no matter the distance.” This personal priestly engagement for home enthronement signifies a deep level of spiritual commitment and support.
Symbolism of Red and White: Devotees of the Sacred and Immaculate Hearts of Jesus and Mary wear red and white ribbons on their medals, a practice steeped in profound meaning.
These colors symbolize the water and blood that gushed from Jesus Christ’s side during His crucifixion. Fr. Ogbeiwe clarified that the white represents humanity, while the red signifies His divinity, reminding members of this foundational act of salvation.
Reparation for Sacrilege:
A core responsibility of Sacred Heart members is to make reparation for sacrilegious acts against the Blessed Sacrament. Fr. Ogbeiwe stressed that the society ensures members are mindful of showing reverence, such as genuflecting when passing the Blessed Sacrament.
Members are called to pray for God’s mercy in atonement for offenses like talking, eating, or stealing inside the church, making this a truly “special society.”
Fostering Spirituality in Youth: The importance of intergenerational faith was also highlighted, with Fr. Ogbeiwe encouraging members to enroll their children in the League of Tarcisians of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
This initiative aims to “groom these young ones” and “boost your spirituality,” ensuring the perpetuation of this profound devotion.
Sanctity of the Home Altar: With the enthronement of the Sacred Heart altar in members’ homes comes a sacred responsibility. Fr. Ogbeiwe urged that the area around the altar should be a sanctuary, free from “fighting, quarreling, and gossiping.” This emphasizes the altar as a focal point for peace and spiritual devotion within the household.
Ultimately, Fr. Ogbeiwe emphasized that it is the duty of devotees to pray for God’s mercy for those who fail to show reverence to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament and for those who receive Holy Communion unworthily.
The Association of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary truly embodies a unique and deeply committed path of devotion within the Catholic Church.
©Ruben Mario Brodrick
01 July, 2025
