DEVOTION TO THE SACRED HEART OF MARY

Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Mary has been a fundamental part of Catholic spirituality for centuries, rooted in tradition and biblical teachings. This devotion is not only an act of love and veneration toward the Mother of God, but also a source of comfort, strength and protection for the faithful who practice it.

To understand the importance of devotion to Mary's Sacred Heart, we must remember that Mary is seen as the loving mother who intercedes for her children before God; her heart, a symbol of her maternal love and compassion, is venerated as a safe haven for those who seek comfort and protection. In Scripture, we find references that highlight Mary's unique role in salvation history. From the moment she agrees to be the mother of Jesus at the Annunciation, to old Simeon's prophecy where a sword will pierce her heart, to her presence beside the Cross, Mary demonstrates a deep devotion and faithfulness to God. Her heart is intimately connected to the mystery of redemption, witnessing the passion and death of her Son for humanity.

Devotion to Mary's Sacred Heart has had a significant impact in the history of the Church. Throughout the centuries, saints, theologians and devoted faithful have promoted this devotion as a path to union with Christ through the heart of his mother. One of the most significant moments in the history of this devotion was the revelation of the Sacred Heart of Jesus to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque in the 17th century. This event marked the beginning of a renewed devotion to the loving heart of Christ, which also extended to the maternal heart of Mary.

Alexandrina Maria Da Costa and her relationship with devotion to the Most Sacred Heart of Mary.

Among those who have experienced a deep devotion to the Sacred Heart of Mary is Alexandrina María Da Costa, a 20th century Portuguese mystic and Salesian Cooperator. Her writings and testimonies reflect an ardent love for the maternal heart of Mary, seeing in it a safe haven in the midst of her sufferings and tribulations. Alexandrina experienced numerous visions and revelations, and her life was marked by an intense love for the Eucharist and the Virgin Mary.

At a troubling and tragic time when world peace was threatened by war, as it continues to be today, it is important to remember the contribution of Blessed Alexandrina Maria Da Costa (1904-1955) in obtaining from God the gift of peace during World War II.

Blessed Alexandrina became a spokesperson for the request for the Consecration of the world to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, asking Pope Pius XI for its beginning in 1937 and in the years that followed. In union with Jesus Crucified, Alexandrina was also a victim soul so that Jesus' request would be granted. From October 1938 to March 1942, Alexandrina experienced the stigmata of Jesus' Passion every Friday. Her body repeated all the events of Christ's Passion. Jesus asked Alexandrina to ask the Pope for the consecration of the world to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. It was on 31 October, 1942 when Pius XII performed the consecration. Alexandrina continued to participate in Jesus' Passion for the salvation of souls and for world peace through total fasting. She lived exclusively of the Eucharist for thirteen years and seven months.

On a crucial date, 25 March 2022, the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord, an important event occurred: Pope Francis, in communion with all the bishops and the priests, once again consecrated Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Mary is a profound expression of love and trust in the maternal intercession of the Virgin Mary. Throughout the history of the Church, this devotion has been a source of comfort and strength for countless faithful, who have found in Mary's heart a safe haven in the midst of life's difficulties. Following the example of saints like Alexandrina María Da Costa, may we cultivate a deeper devotion to the Sacred Heart of Mary and experience her powerful intercession in our lives. May her motherly heart continue to be a safe haven for us in the midst of life's storms, always guiding us to her Son, Jesus Christ.

Don Gabriel Cruz Trejo,

SDB Animatore Spirituale ADMA Valdocco.

Renato Valera,

Presidente ADMA Valdocco.